Editor's Picks from The Economist

A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. China has pledged tougher controls on fentanyl precursors and money-laundering networks. Yet its track record is uneven, and long-term success is tied to China’s tenuous relationship with America.Transcripts of our podcasts are available via economist.com/podcasts.Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+.For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Many anticipate an AI-driven American stockmarket crash, yet few have considered what happens next. Falling wealth would squeeze consumers, strain budgets, and intensify the global protectionism already reshaping trade.Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+.For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. As dating apps lose users, they are turning to artificial intelligence for help. The technology may help people find matches, but it could also make romance feel less human.Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+.For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Labour wants to raise taxes to fix Britain’s finances, but parts of the left are rebelling. The party faces a new form of populism that demands better services without higher taxes.Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+.For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Donald Trump is turning his focus to Venezuela. His administration’s push to remove Nicolás Maduro may reshape Latin America, or repeat past mistakes.Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+.For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. China is now the world’s first clean-energy superpower. The nation’s factories and fields of solar panels are reshaping world power, driving down emissions, and changing how the global economy runs.Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+.For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Increasingly, protest has become theatre. Costumes, comedy, and calm defiance can disarm authority, stir sympathy, and turn even tear gas into a photo opportunity.Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+.For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. The end of America’s large-scale health aid marks a turning point. The government says its new strategy will save money and improve efficiency, but many fear it will cost lives.Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+.For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. A new wave of weight-loss drugs is spreading beyond the rich world. As patents expire, the treatments could transform health care for millions in poorer countries.Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+.For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.