The Intelligence from The Economist

The Economist

Summary

The Intelligence brings you the sharpest global analysis in a concise, daily package. Every weekday, the show moves beyond the headlines to dissect the three most critical developments shifting our world, from high-stakes geopolitical standoffs in the Middle East and the economic unraveling of nations like Cuba, to the technological breakthroughs of firms like SpaceX. This is not just a news summary; it is a deep dive into the underlying forces that shape our era. Our correspondents navigate complex landscapes—whether they are reporting from the front lines of conflict zones, exploring the shifting dynamics of global superpowers, or examining the intersection of government policy and human rights. But we also make time for the human experience. Beyond the turmoil, you will hear nuanced discussions on the cultural phenomena defining our time, from the evolution of science fiction cinema and the endurance of theatre to the surprising histories behind our favorite pastimes. What sets The Intelligence apart is its ability to balance the gravity of modern warfare and economic crisis with thoughtful, often unexpected insights into technology, sports, and the arts. Whether it is a tribute to a trailblazing political figure or an investigation into the rise of unregulated wellness trends, the program offers a clear-eyed perspective on the forces transforming society. Join us as we connect the dots between the big shifts and the quiet undercurrents shaping the world today.

Updated May 29, 2026

Episodes

New world of warcraft: how conflict has forever changed

May 29, 202625 min

Modern war is becoming more lethal, transparent, and frequent as technology transforms the battlefield forever.

Deal or ordeal: Trump’s bad options in Cuba

May 28, 202622 min

Donald Trump faces limited options in Cuba as his strategy of economic pressure and threats yields few results.

Pulp fiction v the classics: summer reading

May 25, 202629 min

Debating the merits of pulp fiction versus the classics to decide which page-turners deserve a spot in your beach bag.

Big boosts to fill: SpaceX’s giant IPO

May 22, 202624 min

SpaceX aims for the biggest IPO in history as it seeks billions to fund Starship, Starlink and its massive AI ambitions.

The Peking order: Xi meets Putin after Trump

May 21, 202620 min

Xi Jinping’s summit with Vladimir Putin underscores his ambition to lead a new, China-centered global order.

Bibi, one more time? Israel’s election launches

May 20, 202620 min

Benjamin Netanyahu faces a critical test as Israel gears up for another volatile election campaign.

Spread too thin: Africa’s next Ebola outbreak

May 19, 202621 min

A new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo exposes a fragile response weakened by aid cuts.

Refine and dandy: Iran’s war bounty

Mar 31, 202622 min

Iran is dodging sanctions and earning record oil profits while India crushes its Maoist insurgency.

The bog of war: week five begins

Mar 30, 202624 min

As the war with Iran enters a fifth week, the risk of a prolonged ground conflict continues to escalate.

Hasta la victoria, quizás: Cuba’s broken economy

Mar 27, 202623 min

A broken economy and dwindling oil supplies leave Cuba struggling to survive under renewed American pressure.

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