Economist Podcasts

Join Sophie Petre, Paris bureau chief for The Economist, and John Parker, international correspondent, as they tackle pressing issues in France and Russia. They discuss the explosive pension reform protests in France sparked by Macron's controversial retirement age increase. Petre offers insights into the widening political unrest, while Parker delves into Russia's demographic crisis, worsened by the war in Ukraine. The conversation touches on societal hesitations regarding childbirth and highlights the artistic legacy of the iconic mime, Marcel Marceau.

Silicon Valley Bank. Signature Bank. Credit Suisse. The world’s banks look wobbly, leading to fears of broader economic pain. Our economics editor explains how regulators should stabilise the sector. Russia is running out of tanks; replenishing its supply will not be easy. And America has a new favourite dog breed.For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jeremy Page and Daniel Knowles share insights on Xi Jinping's strategic visit to Moscow, emphasizing China's nuanced balancing act between supporting Russia and its own interests amidst global tensions. They discuss the declining interest in car ownership among youth, with only a quarter of teens getting licenses, hinting at shifting societal attitudes toward transportation. The conversation also dives into the intriguing concept of lunar colonization, exploring how ancient lava tubes could provide safe habitats for future missions.

In this insightful discussion, Robert Guest, Deputy Editor at The Economist, explores the pressing economics of rainforest preservation, highlighting the severe lawlessness threatening these vital ecosystems. Anne Rowe, the magazine's obituaries editor, reflects on Nobel laureate Oe Kenzaburo's powerful storytelling, shaped by the trauma of Hiroshima, and his quest to voice the voiceless. The conversation interweaves the urgency of environmental action with the profound impact of literature and personal narratives on healing and understanding.

Anshul Pfeffer, an expert on Israeli politics, discusses the intense protests that erupted against proposed judicial reforms threatening the Supreme Court's authority, indicating a deep societal divide in Israel. Tom Wainwright, a tech and media editor, explores the conflict between news publishers and tech giants, focusing on how AI is reshaping media visibility and compensation debates. They also touch on Britain's tomato rationing, linking it to energy costs and global supply chain challenges.

Matthew Hulhaus, The Economist's British political correspondent, discusses Rishi Sunak's strategies to revitalize the Conservative Party amid mounting challenges, from economic woes to controversial immigration policies. Oliver Carroll, the foreign correspondent, explores the impact of Putin's regime on Russia's cultural landscape, revealing the complex responses of artists to government oppression. They also touch on the influence of jazz, particularly highlights from renowned pianist Brad Mehldau, weaving in themes of resilience and emotional depth amidst political turmoil.

Fyodor Zalewski, Turkey correspondent for The Economist, offers deep insights into the Turkish presidential race, focusing on the mild-mannered Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu and the challenges facing his campaign against Erdoğan. Rachel Dobbs discusses the landmark UN high-seas treaty, emphasizing its critical role in protecting marine ecosystems and the hurdles for enforcement. The conversation also touches on the rise of Thai Boys Love dramas as a cultural phenomenon, exploring their global appeal and implications for LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand.

Alice Fullwood, Wall Street correspondent for The Economist, and Shashank Joshi, Defense editor, dive into the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, discussing regulatory interventions and the risks of governmental involvement. They explore the implications of a new military alliance among America, Australia, and Britain, aimed at countering China's assertiveness. The conversation also touches on the legacy of Alamayu, an Ethiopian prince, and the ongoing debates surrounding cultural restitution and the return of looted artifacts.

In this enlightening discussion, Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on Estonia's pivotal role as a military donor to Ukraine. He delves into Prime Minister Kaja Kallas's recent electoral triumph, which signaled strong public support for continuing aid to Ukraine amidst regional threats. The conversation also reveals how the conflict has united Estonians in liberal democracy, defying populism, and shaping their political landscape. Additionally, the podcast touches on international dynamics, including South Korea's historical grievances with Japan.

Anton LaGuardia, Diplomatic Editor for The Economist, dives into the intensifying tensions between the U.S. and China regarding Taiwan. He analyzes the growing military capabilities of China and the potential fallout of conflict on global economies. The discussion also touches on Mexico's electoral integrity crisis and recent protests against government reforms aimed at weakening democracy. Lastly, the historical impact of witchcraft trials in Connecticut is explored, highlighting efforts to right past wrongs through exoneration and acknowledgment.