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cover art for Editor’s Picks: December 11th 2023

Editor's Picks from The Economist

Editor’s Picks: December 11th 2023

A selection of four essential articles read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Our cover story in most of the world this week explores the route to peace in the Middle East. In Britain, our cover probes how the UK has over-medicalised mental health. Also, how grizzly bears became the newest battleground in the political culture wars. Finally, Australia’s changing relationship with international students. 


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  • Reinvented hydrofoils could revolutionise transport

    09:49|
    A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Traffic-clogged cities may soon find relief on their rivers and coastlines. Silent, flying boats are poised to make waterborne travel cleaner, faster, and cheaper than ever.Topics covered:TechnologyElectric hydrofoilsClean energyListen 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.
  • Why crypto dips have soured investors

    07:04|
    A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Investors in cryptocurrencies are facing a slump while tech stocks remain at near-record highs. The asset class is losing both its novelty and its value. Topics covered:Digital assetsCryptocurrenciesBitcoinListen 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.
  • Keir Starmer's crisis is bad for Britain

    07:43|
    A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Britain’s prime minister has been engulfed by the unfolding Epstein scandal. As Sir Keir’s position weakens, party unity and self-preservation threaten to crowd out the reforms that Britain urgently needs.Topics covered:Keir StarmerLabour PartyEpstein filesListen 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.
  • Japan’s prime minister wins a historic landslide

    08:11|
    A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Japan’s ruling party has won a decisive new mandate. Takaichi Sanae, the country’s prime minister, now has a rare chance to act. The question is whether she will undertake the work of reform or retreat into populism.Topics covered:Japan’s election Takaichi Sanae Liberal Democratic PartyListen 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.
  • Red and white: the wine world’s newest fad

    06:41|
    A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Blouge wines blend red and white grapes to create a fresh and versatile style. Winemakers are using it to appeal to younger consumers and adapt to the challenges of climate change.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.
  • Pandora’s box: the new equation of nuclear proliferation

    05:22|
    A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. The old nuclear order is unraveling. Allies of the United States are questioning whether they can trust its promises. Some may decide to pursue bombs of their own.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.
  • Off the record: the global assault on press freedom

    08:11|
    A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Even in democracies, state resources and subtle threats are used to silence journalists. The decline in press freedom around the world makes governments less accountable and societies less transparent.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.
  • Greenbacksliding: why the dollar is in danger

    09:14|
    A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. President Trump’s policies have shaken confidence in the dollar. Rising gold prices and market jitters reveal that American assets are no longer as safe as they once seemed.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.
  • Polar war: the military scramble for the Arctic

    08:38|
    A handpicked article read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. Donald Trump has put Greenland at the centre of global attention and highlighted the strategic significance of the Arctic. A new book reveals why American ambitions in the region depend on European support.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.