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.
Despite negative headlines about housing costs and taxes, California's economy remains a global powerhouse and continues to grow. This episode explores the state's diverse industries, the factors driving migration out of the state (like cost of living and taxes), and potential future threats like trade wars and environmental issues. While facing real challenges, California's economic situation might not be as dire as often portrayed.
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 skille...
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 & We...
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 cas...
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adcho...
The BRICS alliance is expanding, with new members like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, and Indonesia joining Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. As global tensions rise, BRICS sees a chance to challenge the Western-led financial system and build its economic powerhouse. But can this diverse group truly unite, or will internal conflicts and economic dependencies hold them back? Watch now to see what a BRICS-led global economy could mean for the future! Learn more about your ad ch...
Why do some nations thrive while others collapse? Tolstoy’s famous quote applies to economies—successful nations share key traits, while failed states unravel in distinctive ways. From corruption and weak institutions to war and economic mismanagement, history reveals clear patterns of failure. This video examines why countries like Barbados, the Congo, and Yemen have struggled, while South Korea has transformed into a global powerhouse. Can struggling nations liberate themselves from these cycl...
Greenland is a massive land with a tiny population, and it relies on fishing, government support, and Denmark’s financial aid to survive. But why are global superpowers suddenly so interested in this frozen frontier? Is it the untapped resources, the potential to become a major Arctic trade route, or something even bigger? And could the USA acquire it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Japan was once on track to become the world’s largest economy, but after decades of stagnation, that future never came. From the post-war boom to the Plaza Accord, risk-averse business culture, and an aging population, Japan's rise and plateau have fascinated economists for years. Yet, despite its economic slowdown, the country still enjoys high job security, low inflation, affordable housing, and a high quality of life. But can any country remain stagnant forever without serious consequences? O...
Are tariffs just sneaky taxes, or can they actually help economies grow? From washing machines to national security, we break down the real impact of tariffs, why they once worked for the U.S., and whether they still make sense today. Join us as we explore the trade-offs, history, and hidden costs of tariffs in a globalized world! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Massachusetts thrives on innovation, education, and talent, hosting top institutions like Harvard and MIT. How did it build one of the world's most productive economies, and can others follow its lead? Let's find out the secrets behind its success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How did Sri Lanka achieve an economic turnaround, and why are its people still struggling? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Europe, home to some of the world's largest and most advanced economies, has been experiencing nearly two decades of economic stagnation, falling behind the USA in raw output. Despite high living standards, competitive salaries, and excellent education, the continent faces self-inflicted issues in innovation, immigration, industry, integration, and energy. In this video, we explore why Europe's growth has stalled, how it differs from the USA, and what can be done to address these challenges. Can...
South Korea’s rise from post-war devastation to one of the world’s most advanced economies is often called an economic miracle. With global giants like Samsung and Hyundai leading its industrial growth, the country has built a reputation for innovation and resilience. This success stems from rapid economic liberalization, the pivotal role of chaebols, and strategic support from global allies. However, political turbulence and overreliance on mega-corporations now raise questions about the sustai...
Iceland faced one of the worst economic collapses during the 2008 financial crisis, losing nearly half its economic output and teetering on the edge of becoming a failed state. Yet, through bold decisions, unique energy resources, and sheer resilience, this tiny nation turned its fortunes around to become a global leader in sustainability and economic recovery. But is Iceland’s success a replicable model or a case of perfect circumstances? Watch to uncover the fascinating story of a nation that ...
The United States is the largest oil producer in the world, yet it remains one of the biggest oil importers. Explore why the USA imports oil despite record-breaking production, what this means for energy security, and how long this oil boom can last. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Nigeria was once predicted to be the fastest-growing economy in the world, but it has faced serious challenges since 2014. In this video, we explore how Nigeria grew with oil wealth and urbanization and what led to its struggles with corruption, instability, and missed chances. Learn how its resources, regional differences, and global reputation have shaped its journey. Can Nigeria overcome these issues and become Africa’s top economy again? Watch to find out. Learn more about your ad choices. V...
Explore the surprising story of Chile’s rise to economic prosperity in South America. From its early days of political infighting to the influence of the “Chicago Boys,” discover how Chile became one of the region's wealthiest nations. We’ll dive into its reliance on copper exports, the impact of inequality, and the unique challenges it faces today. Can Chile continue its growth while addressing the demands of its people and balancing global interests? Join us for a deep look into Chile’s comple...
Why do some nations flourish while others remain trapped in poverty? This year’s Nobel Prize in Economics goes to three economists whose groundbreaking work explores this question. Join us as we dive into the theories and insights of Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson, who have helped shape policy across the globe with their research on economic growth and inequality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Overpopulation has been our biggest fear for decades, but now, shrinking populations are the real crisis. From aging societies to dwindling birth rates, countries worldwide are grappling with the risks of a declining population and struggling with radical measures to reverse it. In this video, we uncover why this shift could redefine our future, and why simply paying people to have more kids may lead to unexpected, even dangerous consequences. Dive into the surprising story behind the global pop...
Washington D.C. is home to the world's largest and most powerful economy. Still, most people don’t realize that this federal district is also one of the most complex and productive local economies globally. In this video, we dive deep into the fascinating economics of Washington D.C.. How its strange status fuels a massive local economy, and why calls for it to become a state are intensifying. How its wealth paradoxically creates some of the worst inequality in the U.S. We’ll also explore how th...
2024 is set to be the biggest election year ever, with nearly half the world's population heading to the polls! While democracy is generally a good thing, elections can create turmoil in economies, adding uncertainty to everything from trade to taxes. In this video, we dive into how elections can disrupt national economies, the real costs of political uncertainty, and whether we can minimize these economic disturbances for smoother transitions of power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit me...
Once a powerhouse of the ancient world, Egypt today faces a range of internal and external challenges that are holding it back from becoming a major global economic force. With its prime location between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, and control of the critical Suez Canal, Egypt has all the ingredients to be a top 10 global economy—but what’s standing in the way? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Switzerland is often seen as an economic powerhouse with immense wealth, luxury exports, and a prestigious financial sector. But what’s behind its global reputation? In this video, we explore how Switzerland developed its world-leading industries and whether this success benefits the average Swiss citizen. We also look at potential challenges to its economic dominance and what happens when a country’s reputation becomes a double-edged sword. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/a...
For decades, China was the go-to for low-cost manufacturing, but now it's a global leader in advanced industries. How did China leapfrog the competition, and what does this mean for the global economy? We explore the rapid rise of Chinese industry and its implications for the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Exploring the incredible transformation of the Persian Gulf from a collection of small fishing villages to the global epicenter of oil-fueled opulence. Cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh have risen from the sands with grand visions of becoming world-class business and tourist destinations. But is this meteoric rise sustainable, or just a facade built on dwindling oil reserves? We delve into the ambitious projects, the looming challenges, and the critical question of what happens when the o...
Thailand has faced decades of political turmoil, but its economy has continued to grow, defying the odds. Strategically located and driven by strong industries, Thailand has managed to navigate through coups and crises. However, with ongoing challenges, can Thailand continue its upward trajectory and secure its place as a leading economy in Southeast Asia? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
