Economist Podcasts podcast

Economist Podcasts

Every weekday our global network of correspondents makes sense of the stories beneath the headlines. We bring you surprising trends and tales from around the world, current affairs, business and finance — as well as science and technology. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.

Every weekday our global network of correspondents makes sense of the stories beneath the headlines. We bring you surprising trends and tales from around the world, current affairs, business and finance — as well as science and technology. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.

 

#1621

Reunions and rubble: Gaza’s first moments of peace

Quiet skies, returned Israeli hostages, Gazans going back home: there is [much to celebrate] (https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2025/01/19/the-start-of-a-fragile-truce-in-gaza-offers-relief-and-joy?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) , for the moment. We examine the path to a more robust and lasting peace. Britain’s minimum-wage rise is good news for those who earned less—but those who earned not much more are feeling [more squeezed] (https://www.economist.com/britain/2024/11/13/britains-big-squeeze-middle-class-and-minimum-wage?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) (9:45). And the medical merits of hypnosis are at last [becoming recognised] (https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2024/12/28/why-some-doctors-are-reassessing-hypnosis?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) (16:50). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

24 hrs Ago

23 MINS

23:49

24 hrs Ago


#1620

Billionaires boldly go: private space-treks

This week [Blue Origin] (https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2025/01/01/can-jeff-bezos-match-elon-musk-in-space?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) , Jeff Bezos’s space-exploration company, successfully launched a rocket into orbit on its first attempt. That marks a new frontier in the private space industry. Donald Trump has threatened [mass deportations] (https://www.economist.com/briefing/2025/01/09/how-far-will-donald-trump-go-to-get-rid-of-illegal-immigrants?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) of illegal immigrants. What will happen when he takes office (12:56)? And celebrating [Peter Fenwick] (https://www.economist.com/obituary/2025/01/16/peter-fenwick-became-the-world-expert-on-near-death-experiences?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) , a neuropsychiatrist and expert on near-death experiences (21:55). Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology— [Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

17 Jan 2025

28 MINS

28:59

17 Jan 2025


#1619

Peace by piece: a ceasefire in Gaza is close

After 15 months of fighting, a [ceasefire in Gaza] (https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2025/01/15/after-15-months-of-hell-israel-and-hamas-sign-a-ceasefire-deal?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) may soon be agreed. What does the deal entail –and could it last? Our correspondent has uncovered new information about Donald Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, [Tulsi Gabbard] (https://www.economist.com/united-states/2025/01/15/tulsi-gabbard-sean-penn-and-the-hunt-for-an-american-hostage?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) , and her relationship with Syria’s former dictator, Bashar al-Assad. And why Gen-Z has gone [mad for matcha] (https://www.economist.com/culture/2025/01/14/why-matcha-made-from-green-tea-is-the-drink-of-the-moment?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) . Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology— [Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

16 Jan 2025

25 MINS

25:32

16 Jan 2025


#1618

Arrest development: South Korea’s Yoon held

After [dramatic scenes] (https://www.economist.com/asia/2025/01/15/after-the-presidents-arrest-what-next-for-south-korea?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) in South Korea, President Yoon Suk Yeol has been detained on insurrection charges, stemming from his attempt to impose martial law in December. But, says our correspondent, the political and economic fallout is not over. The [craze for plastic surgery] (https://www.economist.com/briefing/2025/01/02/young-customers-in-developing-countries-propel-a-boom-in-plastic-surgery?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) reaches some surprising body parts (7:46). And a visit to the world’s most [disciplined primary schools] (https://www.economist.com/christmas-specials/2024/12/19/why-do-small-children-in-japan-ride-the-subway-alone?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) –in Japan (16:40). Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology— [Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

15 Jan 2025

22 MINS

22:44

15 Jan 2025


#1617

View to a killing: bond yields rise and rise

Though central banks have cut interest rates, uncertainty about the future has [sent yields sky-high] (https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2025/01/12/why-global-bond-markets-are-convulsing?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) . Our correspondent explains why expectations diverge from the economic data, and the impact on borrowers. Donald Trump’s [desire to control Greenland] (https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2025/01/08/an-american-purchase-of-greenland-could-be-the-deal-of-the-century?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) using economic or military force provoked outrage. But could America buy the country (9:01)? And why Singapore’s [iconic hawker centres] (https://www.economist.com/asia/2024/12/19/singapores-government-is-determined-to-keep-hawker-centres-alive?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) are under threat (17:41). Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology— [Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

14 Jan 2025

23 MINS

23:25

14 Jan 2025


#1616

A run for cover: LA’s fires and insurance

Among the lessons emerging from California’s devastating fires is the idea that insurers [cannot price risk] (https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2025/01/10/the-los-angeles-fires-will-be-extraordinarily-expensive?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) on past data: the climate-change future is already here. Pete Hegseth, Donald Trump’s pick for defence secretary, has some [misguided notions] (https://www.economist.com/international/2025/01/06/women-warriors-and-the-war-on-woke?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) about women on the battlefield (10:10). And examining [children’s literature] (https://www.economist.com/culture/2025/01/09/sex-and-snow-white-how-grimm-should-childrens-books-be?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) : should it be all sugar and spice—or more real-world, where not everything���s nice (19:28)? Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

13 Jan 2025

26 MINS

26:03

13 Jan 2025


#1615

Moving the post goals: Musk’s British-politics meddling

Elon Musk has taken an abiding interest in Britain, and a hard line against its prime minister. It reveals [a division] (https://www.economist.com/britain/2025/01/09/what-elon-musks-tweets-about-sex-abuse-reveal-about-british-politics?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) within British politics that may hold lessons for elsewhere. Our series The World Ahead concludes by assessing Europe’s [security challenges] (https://www.economist.com/the-world-ahead/2024/11/20/the-uncertain-outlook-for-european-security?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) in 2025 (11:14). And remembering [Chiung Yao] (https://www.economist.com/obituary/2025/01/09/chiung-yao-taught-the-chinese-all-about-romantic-love?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) , whose many novels taught the Chinese all about romantic love (19:25). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

10 Jan 2025

27 MINS

27:03

10 Jan 2025


#1614

Adaptitude: India and climate change

The world’s most populous country is at the front line of climate change. Our deputy editor explores the many ways [it is adapting] (https://www.economist.com/asia/2025/01/02/how-14bn-indians-are-adapting-to-climate-change?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) —because it must. Our series The World Ahead continues by examining [the plausibility] (https://www.economist.com/the-world-ahead/2024/11/19/where-donald-trump-will-be-constrained-and-where-he-will-not?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) of the incoming Trump administration’s policy promises (10:26). And the robots that can at last help with [grape harvesting] (https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2024/10/23/winemakers-are-building-grape-picking-robots?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) (18:26). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

09 Jan 2025

25 MINS

25:00

09 Jan 2025


#1613

Towards Russia with love: Austria’s political tilt

A once-fringe far-right party looks close to power—and serves as another sign of a broad and worrying [pro-Russia trend] (https://www.economist.com/leaders/2025/01/07/the-putinisation-of-central-europe?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) in central European politics. Meanwhile [Jean-Marie Le Pen] (https://www.economist.com/europe/2025/01/07/jean-marie-le-pen-revived-extremist-politics-in-france?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) , who established the far-right party now close to power in France, has died; our correspondent reflects on his legacy (10:05). And our series The World Ahead examines [financial inclusion] (https://www.economist.com/the-world-ahead/2024/11/20/latin-america-is-making-progress-on-banking-the-unbanked?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) in Latin America (16:07). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

08 Jan 2025

22 MINS

22:13

08 Jan 2025


#1612

It’s no longer Trudeau: Canada’s PM resigns

In the end Justin Trudeau could not resist the internal pressure. We ask why the liberal standard-bearer [got pushed out] (https://www.economist.com/the-americas/2025/01/06/justin-trudeau-leaves-a-wrecked-party-and-divided-canada?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) , and what comes next. [Ten years after] (https://www.economist.com/culture/2025/01/04/ten-years-after-the-charlie-hebdo-massacre-satire-is-under-siege?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) terrorists raided the offices of Charlie Hebdo, a satirical French newspaper, our correspondent speaks with its unbowed editor (10:10). And our series The World Ahead examines the [nexus] (https://www.economist.com/the-world-ahead/2024/11/20/ai-will-boost-drug-development-in-2025?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) of AI and the pharmaceutical industry (19:08). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

07 Jan 2025

25 MINS

25:01

07 Jan 2025


#1611

Against the clock: Gaza peace talks

Israel continued to pound Gaza, even as ceasefire negotiations began in Qatar. The familiar dynamic will soon be interrupted by a new American administration. Our analysis shows that Nordic firms have markedly [better fundamentals] (https://www.economist.com/business/2024/12/30/why-are-nordic-companies-so-successful?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) than the European average; we examine what’s behind all that success (10:18). And our series The World Ahead considers how democracy [will fare in Asia] (https://www.economist.com/the-world-ahead/2024/11/20/will-democracy-prevail-in-asia-in-2025?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) in 2025 (18:37). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

06 Jan 2025

25 MINS

25:16

06 Jan 2025


#1610

All the president’s money men: the Trumponomics team

There are [three types] (https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2025/01/02/will-elon-musk-dominate-president-trumps-economic-policy?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) of economics-minded people in Donald Trump’s incoming administration. We ask whether they are likely to collaborate or to compete. Tourism clearly adds to emissions, but new numbers show [just how fast] (https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2024/12/11/carbon-emissions-from-tourism-are-rising-disproportionately-fast?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) that fraction is rising (9:58). And the next in our The World Ahead series reveals a familiar planetary phenomenon that will [disappear] (https://www.economist.com/the-world-ahead/2024/11/20/the-rings-of-saturn-will-disappear-in-2025?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) in 2025 (17:07). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

03 Jan 2025

25 MINS

25:55

03 Jan 2025


#1609

Three presidents and counting: South Korea

The country is on its third president in as many weeks—a deep [political crisis] (https://www.economist.com/asia/2024/12/14/south-koreas-president-is-impeached?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) only made worse by the most deadly air disaster in South Korean history. A change to how Brazil’s football teams are run has lured [investment galore] (https://www.economist.com/the-americas/2024/12/05/brazilian-football-looks-like-the-next-premier-league?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) , making for a potential rival to England’s top league (9:49). And why movie studios are so keen on plumbing [video-game franchises] (https://www.economist.com/the-world-ahead/2024/11/19/video-games-are-the-next-big-thing-in-film-and-television?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) (16:59). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

02 Jan 2025

21 MINS

21:54

02 Jan 2025


#1608

Don’t mention the war: Russia’s internal tensions

There is no simplistic split of sentiment about Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine. But what most Russians want is a return to normal that now [seems impossible] (https://www.economist.com/briefing/2024/11/28/the-war-in-ukraine-is-straining-russias-economy-and-society?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) . Our The World Ahead series continues with a look at what is to come in [British politics] (https://www.economist.com/the-world-ahead/2024/11/20/political-fragmentation-in-britain-is-here-to-stay?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) (9:16). And the delicate business of [handing out nicknames] (https://www.economist.com/business/2024/12/19/the-business-of-nicknames?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) —for people and for brands (17:30). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

01 Jan 2025

22 MINS

22:09

01 Jan 2025


#1607

Billions of voices heard: a year of elections

In some places, votes resulted in political chaos; in others they showed a promising shift away from identity politics. Our deputy editor looks back on 2024’s pile of polls. Looking ahead, we examine the [Chinese cities] (https://www.economist.com/the-world-ahead/2024/11/20/which-are-chinas-cities-of-the-future?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) that will come into their own in 2025 (11:36). And the [changing economics] (https://www.economist.com/europe/2024/12/12/the-polish-restaurants-that-dare-to-be-dairy?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) of Poland’s traditional “milk bars” (16:29). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

31 Dec 2024

22 MINS

22:39

31 Dec 2024


#1606

Of peanuts and principles: Jimmy Carter dies

After a single term and a landslide loss to Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter’s presidency was judged unduly harshly. What matters, though, are the principles he [held dear] (https://www.economist.com/obituary/2024/12/29/jimmy-carter-was-perhaps-the-most-virtuous-of-all-americas-presidents?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) for all his 100 years. The first of our series The World Ahead outlines the [big trends] (https://www.economist.com/the-world-ahead/2024/11/18/tom-standages-ten-trends-to-watch-in-2025?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) coming in 2025 (11:39). And a [reading list] (https://www.economist.com/culture/2024/11/21/what-to-read-to-understand-elon-musk?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) for those who want to know how Elon Musk thinks (20:42). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

30 Dec 2024

27 MINS

27:51

30 Dec 2024


#1605

Passing mentions: the notable lives lost in 2024

From a legendary baseball [slugger] (https://www.economist.com/obituary/2024/06/26/willie-mayss-philosophy-was-simple-they-throw-the-ball-i-hit-the-ball?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) to a beloved comic [actor] (https://www.economist.com/obituary/2024/09/27/maggie-smith-the-dowager-countess-of-comic-timing?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) , from Scottish [politicians] (https://www.economist.com/britain/2024/10/13/alex-salmond-went-from-the-fringes-to-the-mainstream-and-back-again?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) to America’s [sex therapist] (https://www.economist.com/obituary/2024/07/17/dr-ruth-aimed-to-shake-america-out-of-its-puritan-ways?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) to the leader of Russia’s [resistance] (https://www.economist.com/obituary/2024/02/22/alexei-navalny-didnt-just-defy-putin-he-showed-up-his-depravity?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) : our shows have marked the deaths of many noteworthy figures throughout 2024. Our obituaries editor and correspondents reflect on lives that changed the world—not all of them in good ways. Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

27 Dec 2024

22 MINS

22:44

27 Dec 2024


#1604

Tomes will tell: books that predict the future

Some people read books to escape. Others turn to them for instruction. As the new year looms, our correspondents – and listeners – consider which titles can help forecast what’s coming next. Picks include “Rainbows End” by Vernor Vinge, “Nuclear War” by Annie Jacobsen, “Not the End of the World” by Hannah Richie and “Orbital” by Samantha Harvey. This is a full list of the books mentioned in the show: “Rainbow’s End, A Deepness in the Sky and A Fire upon the Deep” by Vernor Vinge “Ageless” by Andrew Steele “War” by Bob Woodward “Nuclear War: A Scenario” by Annie Jackobson “1984” by George Orwell “On Freedom and On Tyranny” by Timothy Snyder “A Psalm for the Wild-Built” by Becky Chambers “Qualityland” from Marc-Uwe Kling “Ministry of the Future” by Kim Stanley Robinson “Severance” by Ling Ma “Land of Milk and Money” by C Pam Zhang “The Broken Earth Trilogy” by NK Jemisin “Not the End of the World" by Hannah Ritchie “Orbital” by Samantha Harvey “The Heart is a Lonely Hunter” by Carson McCullers “Ancillary Justice” (The Imperial Rasch Series) by Ann Leckie “The Battle of Dorking” by Sir George Chesney “War of the Worlds" by HG Wells Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology— [Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

26 Dec 2024

36 MINS

36:05

26 Dec 2024


#1603

Good moos: cows could help the climate

[Cows] (https://www.economist.com/international/2024/12/12/what-has-four-stomachs-and-could-change-the-world?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) produce far more milk in rich countries than in poor ones. Our correspondent explains how beefing up bovine productivity could feed more people and reduce planet-heating emissions. Why Spain is the best-performing rich-world [economy of 2024] (https://www.economist.com/leaders/2024/12/12/what-spain-can-teach-the-rest-of-europe?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) (11:28). And remembering Harold Palmer, the Northumbrian hermit (17:12). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

24 Dec 2024

23 MINS

23:46

24 Dec 2024


#1602

The club rules? India’s RSS

Is it a community-minded boys’ club, like the Scouts? A breeding ground for seething Hindu nationalism? A paramilitary puppetmaster of India’s governing elite? Our correspondent attends the annual bash of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. As Gulf countries diversify away from oil, their leaders are shifting their focus to science and innovation (11:03). And introducing our [word of the year] (https://www.economist.com/culture/2024/11/29/the-economists-word-of-the-year-for-2024?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) for 2024 (17:01). Get a world of insights by [subscribing to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) . For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

23 Dec 2024

23 MINS

23:30

23 Dec 2024


#1601

Country of the year: The Economist picks

In the past 12 months, there has been no lack of news. Editors at The Economist have picked their way through the rubble to uncover some optimism: [which country] (https://www.economist.com/leaders/2024/12/19/the-economists-country-of-the-year-for-2024?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) has seen the greatest improvement this year? After fierce debate, the decision is conclusive. And our correspondent joins an unusual rescue mission: the [pet railroad] (https://www.economist.com/christmas-specials/2024/12/19/a-network-of-volunteers-is-rescuing-dogs-and-cats-by-bringing-them-north?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners) to a new life (17:00). Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology— [Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+] (https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus) For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our [FAQs page] (https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts) or watch [our video] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY) explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information. ... Read more

20 Dec 2024

27 MINS

27:53

20 Dec 2024