On Economics Explained, we take a look at interesting countries, policies, and decisions from the point of view of an economist. The world is an interesting place and we hope to uncover some of this intrigue in our short, informative podcasts.
📻 Siste episoder av Economics Explained
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Did China Just Drop The Ball On Global Dominance? (00:16:15)
China’s position as the world’s factory is shifting. Growth is slowing to approximately 4-5%, wages are rising, the workforce is shrinking due to an aging population, the property crisis is weighing on GDP, and Western tariffs are restricting exports. For decades, China produced goods at low cost, but a significant supply chain gap is now emerging. India is emerging as a leading contender, with a 6.4% growth forecast, production-linked incentives attracting companies such as Apple, Samsung, and Micron, and digital infrastructure like UPI and Aadhaar accelerating business. Vietnam, Mexico, and Indonesia are also competing for manufacturing investment. The key question is whether India can redefine manufacturing through scale, stability, and strong domestic demand, or if bureaucracy and inequality will impede its progress.
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A Short Story About Why You Cannot Buy A House (00:12:51)
Home ownership is now unattainable in every major city worldwide. For the first time, none of the 95 cities tracked by Demographia are considered affordable. In cities such as Hong Kong (14.4 times income), Sydney (13.8 times), Vancouver, London, and San Francisco, housing prices range from 9 to 30 times the average household income. Essential workers, including teachers and nurses, as well as young families, are being priced out of the cities they support. This raises critical questions about how housing became a leading investment asset, whether prices will continue to rise, and what measures are needed to address the global housing crisis.
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The $400 Trillion Problem No One Wants to Talk About (00:17:05)
The world’s pension promise is unraveling. In the 1950s, sixteen workers supported each retiree; today, that number has shrunk to just 2.7. This dramatic shift is straining pay-as-you-go pension systems to the breaking point. By 2050, one in six people will be over 65, yet politicians are hesitant to implement tough reforms that would require individuals to work longer, contribute more, or accept smaller benefits. Could Denmark’s approach, which ties the retirement age to life expectancy, or Sweden’s automatic adjustment model, offer a way out? Or will a staggering $400 trillion global retirement gap shake the foundations of economies everywhere?
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The 2025 Nobel Prize in Economics: Explained (00:18:50)
Discover what drives lasting prosperity. This year, the Nobel Prize in Economics was awarded to Mokyr, Aghion, and Howitt for demonstrating how technological innovation drove the surge in wealth during the Industrial Revolution. From steam engines to AI, learn why a lack of understanding once held back progress and why creative destruction is so important today. With AI now threatening jobs and monopolies limiting new ideas, could this progress be at risk? Explore the challenges, debates, and potential future dangers that could alter our economies.
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Why Everyone is leaving New Zealand (00:14:23)
Unveil the stunning secret of New Zealand—a paradise losing its young talent! 🌄 With just 5.3 million people, this remote gem boasts top-notch living, education, and healthcare, yet faces a brain drain to Australia (over 10% of Kiwis live there!). Why are skilled workers fleeing? Dive into the quirks of its agriculture-driven economy, sky-high housing costs, and the Aussie influx. Can this picturesque land turn the tide? Watch now to find out!
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Stagflation (00:15:57)
Stagflation has returned—and it’s a nightmare! Rising unemployment, slow economic growth, and persistent inflation are hurting economies, especially the US. Why is this combination so dangerous, and why are experts worried now? Explore how the Fed’s dual mandate is failing, uncover hidden flaws in job and inflation data, and understand why the USD’s reserve status might not protect us. Additionally, learn about the sacrifices required to address the crisis—all while the world feels the ripple effects.
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What Happens When Capitalism Doesn't Need Workers Anymore? (00:15:29)
Imagine a world where AI outsmarts you at work—scary, right? From the Philippines to the US, AI is changing the economic landscape, increasing the GDP of rich nations (5.4% in the US) while putting millions of jobs at risk in developing countries. Will machines leave you behind, or can you fight back? Dive into this wild ride of job threats, global gaps, and the race to adapt—spoiler: the future’s already here!
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Is the survival of humanity economically viable? (00:17:54)
Ever wondered why energy drives economies—and why global warming is an economic nightmare? From the shale boom’s $74B boost to Iceland’s geothermal advantage, cheap and reliable energy fuels growth. But with prices tripling since 2000 and climate damages projected to reach 23% of GDP by 2100, can we balance abundance, security, and net zero? Explore the trade-offs, from carbon pricing to nuclear debates, and see if saving the planet can be profitable!
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Why do We Still Need to Work? (00:15:56)
A century ago, economist John Maynard Keynes confidently predicted that by 2030, we would only be working 15 hours a week. Yet, here we are—working harder than ever! While technology has dramatically boosted productivity, our work hours remain largely unchanged, and the prevalence of “bullshit jobs” is alarming. It’s time to consider whether a four-day workweek could finally break this exhausting cycle or if we are stuck in our ways.
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Do We Still Need Central Banks? (00:18:39)
Almost every nation relies on a central bank, but the US is buzzing with talk of scrapping the Fed—the globe’s mightiest financial force! From its 1694 origins to battling today’s debt and inequality crises, we break down why central banks are crucial and what chaos could unfold if the Fed disappears. Will this rock the global economy, or is it just political hot air?
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Iran's Economic Dilemma (00:16:00)
Iran boasts vast oil reserves, a strategic trading position, and a skilled workforce; however, sanctions and internal issues hinder its progress. From black-market oil to power outages, discover why this energy giant struggles to thrive. Can it break free from its economic troubles? Tune in to find out! What do you think?
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Have Europe's Great Powers Given Up? (00:49:50)
Germany, Italy, and France—once the powerhouses driving Europe’s economy—are now grappling with some tough problems. We’ve put together this collection of videos to give a broader picture of Europe’s economic struggles. From Germany’s industrial slowdown to Italy’s stalling economy and France’s balancing act, these videos show how these old powers are really finding it hard to keep up with the changing global scene.
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China’s Debt Problem Is 300% Bigger Than America’s (00:24:08)
From state-owned enterprises to real estate issues - how does China’s economy operate under different rules?
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Denmark Should Not be Rich (00:20:45)
How does tiny, cold Denmark defy the odds to become one of the richest nations? Despite sky-high taxes and a lack of oil wealth, it boasts free education, universal healthcare, and global giants like Novo Nordisk. Unpack the Nordic model, flexicurity, and explore why high taxes haven’t crushed growth. Is Denmark’s dream sustainable? Watch to find out!
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Why Foreign Aid Fails (00:21:13)
Does foreign aid work, or does it merely trap countries in poverty? Each year, billions are spent, yet 692 million people still live in extreme poverty. From success stories like South Korea to struggles in Sub-Saharan Africa, we explore why aid often fails to stimulate economic growth, the hidden pitfalls of dependency, and what occurs when the funding ceases. Curious about the truth behind foreign aid? Watch now and join the debate!
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Is Gen Z Actually As Poor As They Claim To Be? (00:15:50)
Why is Gen Z stuck in a world drowning in wealth? Homes, families, and financial freedom—milestones older generations nailed, but young folks are falling behind! Are boomers hogging the riches, or is inequality the sneaky villain? From crushing student debt to tech-creating billionaire gaps, we uncover the shocking truth! Could Gen Z still become the richest and poorest generation?
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How Malaysia Did Economics Differently (00:17:38)
Ever wondered how a small nation like Malaysia transformed from a colonial commodity hub into a Southeast Asian economic powerhouse? Nestled in the heart of global trade routes, Malaysia’s rise is a masterclass in leveraging geography, smart policies, and foreign expertise. But can it maintain the momentum to rival giants like Japan or China? From the bustling Strait of Malacca to cutting-edge semiconductor hubs, we unpack the secrets of Malaysia’s success, the challenges that lie ahead, and what its growth means for the region.
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Is This the Recession the US Needs to Have? (00:15:08)
The world faces a staggering $315 trillion debt crisis—three times global GDP! Are we on the verge of economic collapse with 10% of production going to interest payments? From meme coins exceeding major car manufacturers' values to escalating trade threats and actual wars, could a recession be the wake-up call we need? Or will it harm workers and small businesses while the wealthy exploit the situation? We examine why we avoid economic hardship, who suffers the burden, and whether this turmoil could lead to a more enlightened future or total disaster! Don’t miss our analysis on the trade war.
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Why Everyone Thinks California Is Collapsing (00:15:17)
California’s economy is a global powerhouse, but is it crumbling? We dive into why the Golden State keeps growing despite sky-high housing, taxes, and trade war threats, from Silicon Valley's tech giants to Hollywood studios. Unpack the real story behind migration, wildfires, and overhyped headlines. Watch to see if California still got it or if it’s on the edge!
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Is the Australian Economy Doomed? (00:16:11)
Australia stands as an exemplary success story—prosperous, secure, and filled with opportunities. However, a closer examination reveals a fragile framework dependent on unsustainable sectors, skyrocketing housing prices, and increasing inequality across generations. In this video, we delve into the true narrative of Australia’s economic success, the precarious dependencies it maintains, and why tackling these issues could prove quite challenging. Is Australia genuinely thriving, or simply skilled at masking its shortcomings?
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How Poland Is Quietly Winning the Economic Game (00:15:39)
While Europe struggles with debt and stagnation, Poland is booming—the fastest-growing major economy on the continent! How did Poland transform from a broken USSR satellite into a tech and military powerhouse? We explore its smart moves—slow privatization, EU funds, innovation—and risks like debt and brain drain. Can it overtake Germany or France? Watch to find out! Subscribe for more economics made simple.
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Introducing: Tools & Weapons Podcast (00:03:33)
Sharing an excerpt of a podcast we’re enjoying, Tools and Weapons, from Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith. Tools and Weapons explores technology’s impact on our changing world. To celebrate 50 years of Microsoft, Brad is hosting exclusive conversations with the company’s CEOs, where they share their take on the company’s legacy and its AI-fueled future. In this clip from the podcast, Bill Gates takes Brad back to the days when computing power was precious, and explains why Tools & Weapons Podcast his and cofounder Paul Allen’s idea about software was so revolutionary at the time. Find this in-depth conversation and many more by searching for Tools and Weapons wherever you get your podcasts, or visiting https://news.microsoft.com/tools-and-weapons-podcast/.
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How The Finance Industry Destroys Economies (00:16:37)
Does the finance industry add value, or just chaos? From crashing economies to turning homes into gambling chips, it’s made billions while leaving us questioning its worth. We unpack its core role—connecting capital to land, labor, and ideas—and how it fueled the Industrial Revolution and consumer credit. But today’s mega-banks, high-frequency trades, and info gaps are sucking value dry, boosting inequality instead. Featuring insights from Rana Foroohar (Financial Times) and Warren Buffett’s casino warning—watch if finance is a tool or a trap!
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In Defence of DOGE (00:15:03)
US debt hit $36 trillion—117% of GDP—and DOGE aims to cut $2 trillion from yearly spending. Madness or masterstroke? We’re here to argue why it could work. The 1993 cuts sparked a rare surplus—proof it’s doable. Yes, today’s economy leans hard on government spending (35% of GDP), and high interest rates sting, but America’s unique leverage might just hold. Watch to see why DOGE deserves a chance and what’s at stake.
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Could a US Sovereign Wealth Fund Actually Work? (00:14:12)
The USA wants to create its own sovereign wealth fund (SWF), but is this a smart move or just wishful thinking? Countries like Norway, China, and the Gulf States use these massive investment funds to generate long-term revenue, but can the U.S. pull it off with soaring debt and low natural resource taxation? In this video, we break down how SWFs work, the challenges the U.S. would face, and whether this is the right tool for the economy.
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