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 pla...
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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3:33
How The Finance Industry Destroys Economies
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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17:37
In Defence of DOGE
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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16:03
Could a US Sovereign Wealth Fund Actually Work?
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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15:12
Revenge of the BRICS
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!
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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.
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