Trade Splaining: Recent Episodes
Ardian Mollabeciri & Robert Skidmore
A fun and entertaining look at global affairs, trade and the United Nations, brought to you from the perspective of two American expats living in Switzerland. They try to keep a straight face while recapping the latest in current events and the local scene in Geneva, Switzerland as well as interviews with fellow expats on the international scene and leaders in their respective fields.
In Episode 90 of Trade Splaining, Ardian Mollabeqiri and Robert Skidmore are back to unpack how geopolitics, energy markets and global shipping disruptions are finding their way into the everyday economy — from oil prices and port congestion to pain au chocolat, ice cream cones and Aperol Spritzes.
We start with the Strait of Hormuz, where fears of an oil price shock ran into a more complicated reality. China’s role as a “swing importer,” existing oil supply gluts, demand destruction, rerouting and refinery adaptation all helped explain why markets did not quite melt down — even as the risks around energy security and logistics remain very real.
Then we follow the supply chain into breakfast and dessert. Why is a pain au chocolat more expensive? Why can an ice cream cone cost $8? The answer is not one input but many — wheat, butter, cocoa, diesel, refrigeration, labour, packaging and energy all moving in uncomfortable directions at once. Globalization, it turns out, is now coming for your snack budget.
This episode also features a conversation with Jan Hoffmann, Global Lead for Maritime Transport and Ports at the World Bank, on the latest Container Port Performance Index. Jan explains what the CPPI actually measures, why port rankings can get political, how rerouting through the Red Sea, Hormuz and beyond affects port performance, and why the global shipping map is changing in ways that are more about friend-shoring than near-shoring.
We also get into MSC vs Maersk, port ownership, shipping line-linked terminal operators, the geopolitics of port concessions, and — naturally — Jan’s ongoing haircut index and his Washington, DC kebab recommendation.
Plus: Gen Z’s anti-AI nostalgia, the World Cup heat dome, Bosnia’s unofficial theme song, Geneva’s Aperol Spritz problem, and why 320 kilos of meth is probably over the “personal use” threshold.
Listen now for a trade, shipping and geopolitics episode that connects the Strait of Hormuz, China’s energy leverage, port performance, global inflation and your next overpriced ice cream cone.
Episode 89 - Trade Finds a Way, But Your Parcel Might Not: Global Express Association's Carlos Grau on Customs, De Minimis & Global DeliveryTrade has a funny way of showing up in your life. Sometimes it is tariffs, oil prices and semiconductor supply chains. Other times, it is your package sitting at the border while someone tries to decide whether “gift” and “zero value” is a legally persuasive customs strategy.
In this episode of Trade Splaining, Rob and Ardian look at why global trade is still proving surprisingly resilient - even as geopolitics, shipping disruptions and rising trade costs keep trying to ruin the party. Goods trade grew strongly in early 2026, helped in part by US demand for AI-related products like servers, semiconductors and data center equipment. But that momentum is running straight into familiar risks: the Strait of Hormuz, energy prices, shipping uncertainty and the growing reality that trade may still find a way, but it might cost more and arrive later.
The episode also looks at Europe’s attempt to become a more serious geopolitical actor in supply chains, with the EU preparing stronger emergency powers over semiconductor production and critical chip orders. Rob and Ardian also revisit the eternal zombie file of Brexit, asking whether “Bre-entry” - Britain eventually rejoining or moving closer to the EU - is still political fantasy, strategic inevitability, or simply the trade policy sequel nobody asked for but everyone keeps watching.
The main interview features Carlos Grau Tanner, Director General of the Global Express Association, the Geneva-based association representing DHL, FedEx and UPS on global policy issues including trade, customs, aviation, air transport, security and postal regulation.
Carlos explains how express delivery works behind the scenes, why customs rules matter more than most people realize, and how the explosion in low-value e-commerce parcels is putting real pressure on border agencies. As more countries move away from de minimis thresholds, governments may collect more duties and taxes - but they also risk making customs procedures far more complex than they need to be.
The conversation gets into why a $20 parcel should not necessarily be treated like a container full of high-value goods, how simplified customs regimes could reduce friction, and why better data from platforms, payment systems and logistics operators could help customs authorities target risk without slowing everything down.
Carlos also explains why trade fragmentation is changing the global logistics map. As companies rethink where they produce, sell and distribute, express carriers need flexible air traffic rights and modern cargo rules that allow them to adapt to shifting trade lanes. In other words: if trade patterns are changing, the rules governing cargo aircraft need to change with them.
Plus: customs suspicion around gifts, why your grandmother’s sweater might need a declared value, whether kebab can be shipped internationally, Geneva’s kebab data set, Swiss cows facing cross-border restrictions, and the sad passing of Lazare, the local dog who almost made it to the world record books.
Listen now for a conversation on global trade, customs, e-commerce, logistics, supply chains and why the boring stuff at the border is becoming some of the most important stuff in the world economy.
Episode 88: Hormuz Oil Shock, Airfares and the Future of Flying - IATA’s Chief Economist on the New Energy CrisisOil shocks used to feel like something that happened in markets, headlines and awkward economist panels. Not anymore.
In this episode of Trade Splaining, we look at how the latest energy shock is moving from oil markets into the parts of the economy people actually feel - airfares, airline schedules, fuel tanks, EV demand, government energy policy and, potentially, your next holiday. The Strait of Hormuz crisis is no longer just a geopolitics story. It is becoming a consumer story, a transport story and a very expensive reminder that energy security still runs through some very narrow places.
This week, Marie Owens Thomsen, Chief Economist at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), joins the show to explain why aviation is facing what she calls a double energy crisis: an oil crisis and a refining crisis. Airlines do not fly on crude oil - they fly on jet fuel. And when jet fuel prices rise sharply, airlines face immediate pressure on costs, routes, pricing and survival.
Marie breaks down why sustainable aviation fuel is not as simple as “just make greener jet fuel,” why refineries are far more interconnected than most people realise, and why the future of flying depends on much bigger questions around energy systems, investment, infrastructure and political timelines. In other words: aviation may be only a small slice of refined fuel output, but when the system starts creaking, everyone notices.
Also in this episode: Trump and Xi apparently make trade nice again - details pending, napkins possibly missing - Europe’s airlines brace for higher costs, EVs get a crisis-driven boost, Swatch and Audemars Piguet release expensive pendant-shaped plastic, Switzerland accidentally gets a king, and Italy battles the real menace of our time: marauding peacocks.
In this episode:* How the Hormuz crisis is feeding into fuel prices, airline costs and travel disruption * Why jet fuel is not the same thing as crude oil - and why that matters * How higher fuel prices could affect airfares, routes and airline profitability * Why Europe may be especially exposed to aviation fuel shocks * Marie Owens Thomsen on IATA, sustainability and the future of air transport * Why sustainable aviation fuel requires a whole energy-system rethink * How refinery economics shape the future of aviation * Whether this crisis could accelerate renewable energy and alternative fuels * The strange incentives now facing governments, airlines and consumers * Switzerland’s self-declared king and Italy’s peacock problem
Featured guestMarie Owens Thomsen is Chief Economist at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), where she is also responsible for environmental and sustainability activities and serves on IATA’s Management Committee. She previously worked at Lombard Odier as Head of Global Trends and Sustainability and has held senior roles across investment banking, private banking and international economics.
KeywordsTrade Splaining, IATA, Marie Owens Thomsen, aviation, airfares, jet fuel, oil shock, Strait of Hormuz, energy crisis, sustainable aviation fuel, SAF, airline industry, global trade, energy security, transport, geopolitics, supply chains, renewable energy, refining crisis, airlines, EV demand, global economy.
Episode 87 - USMCA Uncertainty, Trade Fragmentation & the Future of Supply Chains
Global trade is shifting - and not everyone agrees on where it’s heading.
In this episode, we break down the growing uncertainty around USMCA, the rise of trade fragmentation, and what it means when the system moves away from efficiency toward resilience.
We also sit down with Will Petty, Global Head of Product Development at A.P. Moller - Maersk Trade & Customs Consulting, to understand how companies are actually responding on the ground - from navigating tariffs to rethinking supply chains and compliance.
Key topics include:
- Is USMCA at risk - and what happens if it unravels
- Why the US is pushing bilateral over regional trade deals
- The shift from “just in time” to “just in case” supply chains
- Commodity fragmentation - from copper pricing gaps to stockpiling
- Why resilience comes with real economic costs (inflation, inefficiency, volatility)
- How companies are adapting to tariff complexity and geopolitical disruption
- The growing importance of supply chain data, traceability, and compliance
- Will supply chains get shorter - or just more complicated?
With Will Petty (Maersk), we discuss:
- How businesses are reacting to constant disruption
- The real-world impact of tariffs and shifting trade flows
- Why understanding your supply chain is now a competitive advantage
- The risk - and opportunity - of shrinking supply chains
Plus:
- Expat insights
- Geneva kebab rankings
- And the unexpected return of… mall culture
Episode 86 – Is the WTO Still Relevant? MC14, Trade Chaos & a Surprisingly Resilient System | Peter Foster (FT)
🎧 Listen: t.ly/K4Jnc
Has the global trading system fundamentally broken — or is it proving more resilient than expected?
In Episode 86 of Trade Splaining, we sit down with Peter Foster, World Trade Editor at the Financial Times, to unpack the real outcomes of WTO Ministerial Conference 14 (MC14) and what they reveal about the future of global trade.
🌍 What we cover:MC14: What actually happened
The conference ended with limited concrete outcomes, highlighting deep divisions — particularly around the e-commerce moratorium and broader reform efforts.
Is the WTO still relevant?
We explore whether the WTO is adapting to a new global reality or slowly drifting toward irrelevance in a world dominated by great power politics.
Rise of regional and plurilateral deals
As consensus becomes harder, countries are increasingly turning to smaller coalitions and regional agreements to move forward.
Trade policy chaos
From “napkin deals” to unpredictable negotiations, the current trade environment is becoming harder for governments and businesses to navigate.
The big paradox: trade resilience
Despite rising tariffs and geopolitical tensions, global trade flows have remained surprisingly stable — raising questions about how much has really changed.
🔑 Key takeaway:Even in a more fragmented and politically charged world, global trade continues to function — not because the system is strong, but because the incentives to keep it going are still stronger.
⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Intro & episode 86 (Radon edition)
03:20 – Interview with Peter Foster
05:00 – MC14 recap
10:00 – WTO relevance debate
16:00 – Trade resilience vs tariffs
20:00 – Future of global trade
24:00 – Local news (Swiss cheese diplomacy 🧀)
📢 Follow & supportTwitter/X: @TradeSplaining
Instagram: @TradeSplaining
Email: tradesplaining@gmail.com
Episode 85 – Tariffs Struck Down… Then Came Back + Middle East Conflict Threatens Food PricesHave tariffs really been rolled back — or just repackaged under a different legal label?
In Episode 85 of Trade Splaining, we unpack the fallout from the US Supreme Court ruling on tariffs — and why, despite the headlines, not much may have actually changed.
We then turn to a fast-moving and underreported risk: how the Middle East conflict is disrupting global fertilizer supply chains — and what that could mean for food prices worldwide.
We’re joined by Peter S. Goodman (New York Times) to break down why this matters more than most people think.
🔑 What we cover* Why US tariffs were struck down — and how they came back almost immediately * What happens to the $133 billion in tariff revenues now in legal limbo * Whether trade policy has actually shifted — or just changed legal justification * Why supply chains continue to reconfigure rather than truly de-risk * How a third of global fertilizer supply depends on the Persian Gulf * Why urea prices spiked ~45% in a week — and what that signals * How fertilizer shortages translate into lower yields and higher food prices * Why globalization isn’t going away — despite rising geopolitical tensions * The economic incentives preventing a real shift toward resilience
💡 Key takeaways* The legal basis for tariffs may have changed — but the policy hasn’t * Tariffs remain a central tool of economic and geopolitical leverage * Supply chains are adapting, but not necessarily becoming more resilient * Global food systems remain highly exposed to geopolitical shocks * Efficiency continues to win over resilience — until crisis hits
🌍 Why this mattersFrom tariffs to fertilizers, this episode highlights just how interconnected today’s global economy really is.
Disruptions in one region — whether legal, political, or military — can quickly ripple across supply chains, prices, and everyday life.
And despite all the talk of “deglobalization,” the system remains deeply interdependent — and fragile.
📢 Listen & followIf you enjoyed the episode:
👉 Follow / Subscribe on your preferred platform
👉 Share with a fellow trade nerd
👉 Help us (and the algorithm) by leaving a rating or review
🔎 Keywords (for SEO)tariffs, US trade policy, Supreme Court tariffs ruling, Middle East conflict, Strait of Hormuz, fertilizer supply, urea prices, global food prices, supply chains, globalization, trade policy podcast
Episode 84 is here — and yes, 84 is the atomic number of polonium, 1984 is Orwellian, and Van Halen absolutely peaked. You’re welcome.
We’re joined again by friend of the pod Dmitry Grozoubinski, Executive Director of the Geneva Trade Platform and author of Why Politicians Lie About Trade. And we ask the big question:
👉 Has the global trading system fundamentally changed — or are we just living through noisy turbulence?
We break down:
- Why Rob’s 2025 prediction that “everything will look mostly the same” is… under pressure
- Whether tariff chaos has permanently destroyed predictability
- Why certainty matters more than tariff levels
- The EU–Mercosur deal and what it really signals
- The weakening of Most Favoured Nation (MFN) treatment
- Why customs, sanctions, and rules of origin are about to get much more complicated
- And Dmitry’s predictions for 2026 (spoiler: more tariff threats, fewer illusions)
Is this the end of the rules-based system?
Or just a new phase where national security openly trumps trade orthodoxy?
Also: airplanes turning around because of toilets. Again.
Listen responsibly.
Is everything national security now?
In Episode 83 of Trade Splaining, Ardi & Rob kick off 2026 by diving head-first into the growing chaos at the intersection of trade policy, geopolitics, and national security exceptions — the legal loophole that ate the global trading system.
We break down why trade is no longer just about efficiency or tariffs, but increasingly about power, leverage, and security theatre — from Greenland and semiconductors to Japan–China tensions and WTO rule-stretching.
Then we’re joined (again) by two of our favourite adults in the room:
- Dr. Mona Paulsen (LSE)
- Prof. Greg Messenger (University of Bristol)
Together, we unpack:
- Why “national security” now seems to cover everything except furniture
- Whether today’s chaos is a temporary shock — or a return to how trade always worked
- What businesses should actually watch for amid policy incoherence
- Whether the US is still a reliable anchor for the global trading system
- And why the real question isn’t what Washington does — but what everyone else does next
Plus:
- A new 2026 format (more depth, fewer Lake Geneva anecdotes — we promise)
- Sleep-bro optimisation culture (yes, really)
- AI, soft skills, and why getting your boss coffee is apparently back
- Donuts, laundry, and the National Security Exception™ as a life philosophy
🎙️ No opinions. Just vibes. And trade law.
👉 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.
📩 Questions? trade.splaining@gmail.com
🔔 Like, subscribe, follow — appease the algorithm.
TradeSplaining #GlobalTrade #NationalSecurity #Geopolitics #TradePolicy #WTO #SupplyChains #ListenResponsibly
In Episode 82 of Trade Splaining, Ardian Mollabeqiri and Robert Skidmore close out the year with an end-of-year global trade reality check.
This episode covers:
- Why Europe’s energy transition is starting to hit household wallets
- China’s overcapacity problem — from electric vehicles to tomato paste
- Why tariffs are proving inflationary (again) and failing to cut trade deficits
- How supply chains keep finding workarounds, no matter the policy
- Rising debt and capital outflows facing developing economies
- What “fragmentation” looks like in practice — and whether there’s a third way
No guest this time — just a wide-ranging news roundup, listener feedback, and a reminder that when pizza orders start shrinking, something bigger is going on.
🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.
📩 Get in touch: tradesplaining@gmail.com
🐦 Follow us on Twitter/X & BlueSky | 📸 Instagram | 💼 LinkedIn
Listen responsibly.
Trade Splaining is back! After a summer break (and one new baby later), Ardi and Rob return to make sense of what’s changed — and what hasn’t — in global trade, business, and expat life. From the latest round of tariffs and China’s “pivot” away from developing-country status at the WTO, to why AI might be the next big trade disruptor, we break down the stories shaping the global economy in 2025.
We’re also joined by Neil Shearing, Chief Economist at Capital Economics and author of The Fractured Age, to unpack how geopolitical rivalries are reshaping globalization — or maybe just rearranging it.
In This Episode:
- 🎵 Why global trade sounds like a Kelly Clarkson song
- 🇨🇳 China’s slowdown vs. export boom — and what Michael Pettis got right
- 💸 Why tariffs haven’t been inflationary (yet)
- 🧠 How AI is quietly rewriting the rules of services trade
- 🌍 Neil Shearing on the U.S.–China split, Europe’s role, and who wins in a fractured world
- 🕰️ Plus: Swiss MAGA farmers, salmon sperm facials as recession indicators, and the new rock-solid watch from Tissot
Keywords:
global trade podcast, Trade Splaining, Neil Shearing, The Fractured Age, deglobalization, US-China trade war, WTO 2025, AI and trade, services trade, tariffs inflation, global economy podcast
In Episode 80 of Trade Splaining, we’re pulling back the curtain on everything from secret sausage wars to how Apple helped build modern China. Along the way, we break down the increasingly blurry line between trade policy and geopolitics, why AI is now after your desk job, and how sober tailgates and millennial nostalgia are the new macro indicators.
Special Guest: Patrick McGee, FT journalist and author of Apple in China, joins us to explain:
- Why Apple didn’t just outsource manufacturing to China—it helped build it
- How a $55B investment strategy turned into a Marshall Plan for advanced manufacturing
- Why decoupling is harder than we think, and what it means for the future of globalization
Also in this episode:
- Is trade policy dead—or just dressed up as national security?
- The AI job shock: not just repetitive tasks, but white-collar jobs too
- A big new EU–Switzerland trade deal (and an even bigger name: “The Bilaterals”)
- Listener feedback, airline mysteries, stolen sausage secrets, and the return of All-American Rejects
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.
Description:
In Episode 79 of Trade Splaining, Rob and Ardian dive deep into the surprising relevance of decarbonizing global shipping, why GDP might not be the best metric anymore, and how the EU and UK are slowly making Brexit... not a thing. We also ask: is multilateralism really dead—or just resting?
💡 What You'll Hear in This Episode:
- Circular Reasoning (with actual logic): Guest Eva-Maria Bille of the European Environmental Bureau unpacks why circular economy policies matter more than ever—especially in a world of inflation, geopolitics, and defense budgets.
- Shipping News That Doesn’t Suck: The IMO’s historic (kind of) net-zero deal for shipping by 2050, what it means, and why it’s both hopeful and half-baked.
- Sell America? Moody’s downgrades the US credit rating, tourism is slowing, and Americans are quietly flocking to Swiss banks. Coincidence? We think not.
- GDP Is Over Party: A new push to rethink how we measure economic health. Is it time to dump GDP in favor of balance sheet metrics?
- Brexit: The Silent Patch-Up: A new EU-UK trade deal smooths post-Brexit trade pain. Is it a quiet realignment or political heresy?
- Swiss Wool Emergency & War Readiness: From Geneva’s updated war brochure to a growing sheep wool crisis, it’s your must-hear Swiss WTFs.
🔁 Also Featuring:
- Listener shoutouts to "Eric" and Ron "Burgundy"
- Michelle’s "Vibe Shift" report: Enron eggs, TikTok satire, and the birds that were never real
- A kebab-off between Geneva and Beirut
- A surprisingly accurate Bond reference and sheep-related crisis management
📬 Subscribe, review, share—and email us your feedback or best kebab takes at TSpotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
In Episode 78 of Trade Splaining, hosts Rob and Ardi explore the complex impact of tariffs on global trade, the humorous yet insightful nature of episode 78, and unique trade issues around the world. Guest Lars Karlsson from Maersk discusses how both small and large companies are navigating the new trade realities. The episode also covers topical issues such as the pistachio shortage, the impact of European policies on trade, and new recession indicators. Additionally, it touches on disruptions like the ban on Brazilian butt lift ads in the UK and the rise in train robberies. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview02:31 Listener Feedback and Corrections04:26 Market Trends and Economic Insights12:59 De-Dollarization and Global Financial Shifts16:35 Interview with Lars Carlson: Navigating Trade Complexities20:47 Challenges for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)21:27 The Role of AI in Supply Chain Management22:40 Customs and Compliance in a Changing Trade Environment24:14 The Impact of Tariff Conflicts on Global Trade26:24 Navigating Uncertainty in International Trade29:11 The Future of Trade and Emerging Solutions36:08 Recession Indicators and Economic Trends38:53 Local News and Unusual Events40:50 Podcast Wrap-Up and Listener Engagement
Episode 77: China’s China Shock & Tariff Reality Check ft. Peter S. GoodmanEpisode Summary:
In Episode 77 of Trade Splaining, we dig into China’s very own “China Shock,” why Budweiser is going budget in Shanghai, and how the global economy might be looking a lot more like... China’s.
Plus, New York Times journalist Peter S. Goodman returns for his third appearance to discuss how the ground-level impact of tariffs is changing the game—from Colombian factory floors to bourbon country in Kentucky.
We’re also talking nearshoring, recession vibes, and why Geneva’s exotic bird problems could signal more than just invasive species.
🔍 In this episode:
- Why China’s slowdown is not just about growth, but a structural shift in manufacturing
- What the "China China Shock" means for global supply chains
- Is Trump’s tariff plan actually a branding strategy?
- What whiskey, rye, and Louisville have to do with nationalism
- And…the clean girl aesthetic as a recession indicator 🧴
🎧 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Special Guest:
📚 Peter S. Goodman – Global Economic Correspondent at The New York Times and author of How the World Ran Out of Everything
🔗 Connect with us:
- X / Twitter: @TradeSplaining
- Instagram: @trade.splaining
- Email: tradesplaining@gmail.com
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Trade Splaining, we unpack the latest twists in the Green Transition—spoiler alert: China’s winning. We also explore how chaos is reshaping global trade, why Manchester United’s new stadium might cost a fortune (hint: tariffs), and the Swiss government's crackdown on... cheap meat?
Our guest, Professor Joost Pauwelyn, joins us to break down 21st-century customs fraud, how trade rules are shifting, and why the WTO may actually survive this era of economic uncertainty.
If you’ve ever wondered how renewable energy, geopolitics, and tariffs intersect—or whether you should still care about composting—this episode is for you.
🔹 In This Episode:
- China’s dominance in the Green Transition and why Europe is struggling to keep up
- The hidden cost of Manchester United’s new stadium—tariffs, steel prices, and trade wars
- Switzerland’s unexpected role as the world's top container trader
- What’s happening with customs fraud, sustainability standards, and the rise of "trade surveillance"
- The future of WTO, and why reciprocal tariffs might actually save it
- And, of course, a deep dive into Geneva’s most pressing issue—affordable meat
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
🔗 Links & Mentions:
- Follow us on Twitter/X
- Join the conversation on Instagram
- Have a hot take? Email us at tradesplaining@gmail.com
Episode 75: Tariffs, Work From Home & Beaver Hunting?Episode Summary:
In this episode of Tradesplaining, Rob and Ardi tackle tariffs, Gen Z’s middle management crisis, and the work-from-home debate. As Trump’s economic policies continue reshaping global trade, we look at the real-world impact of escalating tariffs, Canada and Mexico’s shifting strategies, and how businesses are struggling to adapt.
Plus, we dive into:
✅ The collapse of the $80B diamond market – Are diamonds not forever?
✅ Jamie Dimon vs. Work From Home – Why America’s biggest bank CEO really doesn’t believe you work on Fridays
✅ Gen Z’s "Middle Management Revolt" – Why young professionals are rejecting promotions
✅ China’s Biotech Boom – The next frontier in U.S.-China competition
✅ Switzerland's Legalization of...Beaver Hunting?! – Yes, this is a real story.
All this, plus a deep dive into the latest global trade shifts, economic uncertainty, and what it means for businesses, workers, and everyday consumers.
What’s Inside This Episode?💰 Tariff Wars 2.0 – The U.S. is escalating trade restrictions at breakneck speed. We analyze:
👉 How tariffs on Canada, Mexico & China are upending supply chains
👉 The U.K.’s balancing act between Washington and Brussels
👉 What Trump’s “reciprocal tariff” plan could mean for global trade
🏡 Work From Home Under Fire – Are remote workers actually working on Fridays?
👉 Jamie Dimon of JP Morgan doesn’t think so, and his latest comments are sparking a new work-from-home war.
👉 Is there a growing divide between remote workers and office culture?
👔 Gen Z’s Rejection of Middle Management – A shocking new study says:
👉 50% of Gen Z white-collar workers don’t ever want to be middle managers
👉 Many view it as "high stress, low reward" – are they wrong?
👉 What does this mean for the future of leadership & corporate structures?
💎 The Diamond Market Crash – Why the $80B diamond industry is imploding post-COVID.
👉 De Beers is struggling – is this the end of an era?
👉 Are lab-grown diamonds taking over?
💊 China’s Biotech Boom – China now produces 30% of the world’s new drug patents, up from 5% just a decade ago.
👉 Can U.S. tariffs slow China’s rise in pharmaceuticals?
👉 Is biotech the next big U.S.-China trade war battleground?
🇨🇭 Switzerland News Roundup – Only in Switzerland…
👉 Legalizing Cannabis – but is Switzerland ready for a nationwide rollout?
👉 Legalizing Beaver Hunting?! – Yes, really. It’s happening.
🎙️ And, of course, plenty of listener feedback, jokes, and the best trade analysis that won’t put you to sleep!
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Rob and Ardi dive into the latest on tariffs, AI disruptions, and surprising tourism trends. We break down the new wave of tariffs, their impact on global trade, and what they signal for U.S. economic strategy. Plus, we explore China’s DeepSeek AI breakthrough, the EU’s struggle to stay competitive, and Switzerland’s unexpected move to expand free trade amid growing protectionism.
We also speak with Ed Gresser, VP of the Progressive Policy Institute, who helps unpack tariff escalation, economic shifts, and the power of data in today’s rapidly evolving trade landscape.
Oh, and we discuss how Afghanistan is suddenly a booming tourist destination (yes, really) and why Jaguar just dropped $80 million on custom car paint.
Expect deep insights, witty banter, and the kind of trade talk that actually keeps you awake.
What’s Inside This Episode?🔥 Tariffs & Trade Wars 2.0 – The U.S. is going all-in on tariffs, but will it backfire? We analyze who gets hit hardest and why Mexico is taking a one-month pause before retaliating.
🧠 AI’s "Sputnik Moment" – China’s DeepSeek AI has shaken the global tech world, wiping out $1 trillion in U.S. tech stocks. Are U.S. chip restrictions failing? And what does this mean for the future of AI dominance?
🇪🇺 Europe’s Economic Identity Crisis – Is the EU finally rethinking its strict regulations? We break down how France and others are pushing for fewer rules and bigger corporate champions to compete globally.
🇨🇭 Switzerland’s Trade Play – While everyone else tightens their borders, Switzerland is expanding free trade agreements, doubling down on market access amid rising global tensions.
✈️ Tourism in Taliban-Controlled Afghanistan? – Believe it or not, thousands of tourists are flocking to Afghanistan. We examine who’s going and why.
🎨 Luxury or Lunacy? Jaguar’s $80M Paint Investment – While most of the world worries about inflation, Jaguar is out here spending millions to offer more custom paint jobs. A smart branding move or just another sign of widening wealth gaps?
🎙️ Guest Spotlight: Ed Gresser (PPI) – We talk tariff escalation, trade shifts, and why data matters more than ever in economic policymaking.
Episode Highlights:📌 [02:00] – AI’s “Humanity’s Last Exam” – Should we be worried?
📌 [09:00] – U.S. Tariffs & the Ripple Effect – The winners and losers
📌 [16:00] – Europe’s Economic Shift – Less regulation, more competition?
📌 [19:00] – Switzerland’s Trade Gambit – A lone free trader in a protectionist world
📌 [24:00] – Why Afghanistan Tourism is Surging
📌 [26:00] – Interview with Ed Gresser – The Future of Tariffs & Trade
Welcome to Trade Splaining, the podcast that makes sense of international trade, business, and expat life without putting you to sleep! In our first episode of 2025, Rob and Ardi dive into a new year of trade predictions, global trends, and some surprising insights about life, business, and...sausages?
In This Episode:
- 2025 Trade Predictions: What’s in store for global trade and why tariffs, insurance, and inflation will dominate discussions.
- China’s Record Trade Surplus: How near $1 trillion exports reveal vulnerabilities in domestic demand and fuel trade tensions.
- The Role of Insurance in Climate Economics: With the world heating up, we explore the escalating costs and the ripple effects of uninsurability.
- Labor vs. Capital: As 2025 unfolds, who has the upper hand, and what does it mean for workers?
- New Apps, Old Vibes: Michelle talks about the shifting digital landscape and why the U.S. government’s TikTok actions may have unintended consequences for cultural learning.
Other Highlights:
- A look back at tantalum, the rare metal behind cutting-edge watches and electronics.
- Sausage bars in Geneva? Yes, it’s a thing now!
- Why Eurovision in Switzerland might just be worth your time (or not).
Fun Fact: This is episode 73, the atomic number of tantalum, tying it all back to international trade and rare resources!
Listener Call-to-Action:
Got predictions for 2025? Or thoughts on tariffs, tantalum, or Taylor Swift’s rumored climate anthem? Let us know!
- Email us at trade.splaining@gmail.com
- Follow us on Twitter (@Tradesplaining) and Instagram (@trade.splaining)
Where to Listen:
You can find Trade Splaining on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend (or a stranger).
Listen Responsibly
Episode 72: Predicting Economic Trends, Indigenous Art, and the Revival of MercantilismIn this week’s episode of Trade Splaining, Rob and Ardian explore the latest quirks and complexities of global trade and economics, with a special focus on cultural preservation.
🎙️ What You’ll Hear:* 💄 Lipstick Economics: How luxury consumer trends hint at economic uncertainty. * 🌍 Mercantilism Returns: Why nations are revisiting protectionist policies and what it means. * 🎨 Spotlight on Indigenous Art: Special guest James Johnson, Tlingit artist and carver, shares his journey of balancing cultural preservation with global market opportunities.
🔑 Key Takeaways:* The luxury market is shrinking, signaling potential shifts in consumer confidence. * Mercantilist policies are reshaping trade and economic relations worldwide. * Indigenous artists like James Johnson are trailblazing pathways for cultural exchange and representation in global markets.
🎧 Listen Now:Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or anywhere you get your podcasts.
🔍 SEO Keywords:* Lipstick Economics * Mercantilism in Modern Trade * Indigenous Art in Global Markets * Tlingit Culture and Trade * Luxury Market Trends * Economic Forecasting * Global Trade Policy Podcast
Stay informed, stay curious, and, as always, listen responsibly! 🎙️
Episode 71: Tarantulas, Tariffs, and Trade Wars: Ambassador Maria Pagan on Global Trade’s FutureIn this week’s episode of Tradesplaining, Rob and Ardi tackle the unexpected, the essential, and the downright quirky in global trade and policy. Joined by Ambassador Maria Pagan, U.S. representative to the WTO, this episode offers insights and plenty of laughs as they explore:
🎙️ What’s Inside:* Tarantula Smuggling Gone Wild 🕷️: A man caught with 300 tarantulas at customs? Learn how the global wildlife trade intersects with international regulations. * COP29 Climate Talks 🌱: From funding gaps to policy fatigue, we break down the major takeaways from the latest climate conference and what it means for global sustainability. * Cheese and Tariffs 🧀: Why Parmesan is being hoarded in response to shifting trade policies. * National Security in Trade 🛡️: Ambassador Pagan explains how national security exceptions are reshaping trade policy and the role of the WTO in dispute resolution. * Globalization Trends 🌍: Are new tech jobs like TikTok QVC hosts the latest iteration of globalization?
🔑 Key Takeaways:* The U.S. perspective on the WTO’s role in dispute resolution. * How climate goals are stalling at COP29 and what needs to happen next. * Quirky stories that make trade more relatable, from smuggled wildlife to unusual customs cases.
🎧 Listen Now:Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your podcasts. Don’t forget to leave a review and share with friends who love global stories with a twist!
📌 Follow Us:* Twitter: @Tradesplaining * Instagram: @trade.splaining * Email: tradesplaining@gmail.com
🔍 Keywords:* COP29 Climate Talks * National Security Trade Policy * Ambassador Maria Pagan WTO * Tarantula Smuggling Stories * Global Trade Podcast * Parmesan Cheese Tariffs * TikTok Globalization Trends * Climate Finance Challenges * Wildlife Trade Regulations * Sustainable Trade Practices
Stay informed, stay entertained, and as always—listen responsibly! 🎙️
Episode 70: Diverging Paths, Turkey’s BRICS Aspirations, and Narratives on Globalization ft. Nicholas LampWelcome to Episode 70 of Trade Splaining! In this episode, Rob and Ardi are joined by Nicholas Lamp, Associate Professor at Queen’s University, to discuss diverging economic approaches, shifting trade narratives, and some unexpected trends.
Key Topics Covered: US vs. EU Economic Divergence: As the U.S. and Europe take increasingly different approaches to economic policy, what does this mean for a unified Western strategy? * Turkey and the BRICS: Turkey’s aspirations to join the BRICS highlight a shift toward a multipolar global economy. How could this reshape alliances and influence trade? * Narratives on Globalization: Nicholas Lamp offers fresh insights on how public and political perspectives on globalization are evolving, as seen in his book, Six Faces of Globalization*.
Special Guest:Nicholas Lamp, an expert in international trade law, joins us to unpack the changing narratives around globalization and share his take on what the future holds for global trade.
Highlights:* Insights into the U.S.-EU economic policy gap. * Turkey’s pivot to BRICS and its implications for NATO and Western alliances. * A deeper look at the forces shaping public and political discourse on globalization, from labor rights to climate concerns. * A humorous dive into the quirky concept of the “selmelier” (salt sommelier) and other local news.
🔊 Tune in now for an episode packed with trade insights, policy debates, and some light-hearted moments!
Keywords:* US-EU Economic Divergence * Turkey BRICS Membership * Globalization Narratives * International Trade Podcast * Nicholas Lamp * BRICS Alliance * WTO * Global Trade Dynamics * Trade Policy Trends * Global Economic Shifts
📌 Call to Action: Stay informed—subscribe to Tradesplaining on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Share your thoughts and leave a review!
Follow us on social media for more updates and insights:
- Twitter: @Tradesplaining
- Instagram: @trade.splaining
GlobalTrade #TradePolicy #BRICS #Globalization #NicholasLamp #EconomicDivergence #TurkeyBRICS #Podcast #USTrade #EUTrade #SupplyChain #BusinessPodcast
Welcome to Trade Splaining Episode 69!
In this episode, hosts Rob and Ardian are joined by Ambassador Maria Pagan, U.S. representative to the WTO, to discuss a wide range of timely topics in global trade.
Key Topics Covered:* Re-Globalization: What does the post-pandemic world look like? We explore how trade rules must evolve to meet the needs of 2024 and beyond. * China’s Economic Stimulus: As China pushes stimulus packages to revitalize its slowing economy, what will this mean for global trade dynamics? * Worker-Centered Trade Policy: Ambassador Pagan breaks down what the U.S. means by "worker-centered" trade policy and why it’s critical in today’s evolving economic landscape.
Special Guest:Amb. Maria Pagan, who leads the U.S. mission to the WTO, shares her expert insight on how trade policy is shifting, addressing inequalities, and adapting to modern challenges like technology disruptions and geopolitical tensions.
Highlights:* The importance of adapting trade rules in light of modern challenges. * How China’s stimulus could impact global growth and trade. * A detailed discussion on worker-centered trade policies and their long-term benefits. * Amb. Pagan’s personal journey and what she’s learned from her extensive career in international trade.
🔊 Tune in now for thought-provoking discussions on the future of global trade!
📌 Call to Action: Don’t miss out on these timely insights—subscribe to Tradesplaining on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Be sure to leave a review and share with your network!
Follow us on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content:
- Twitter: @Tradesplaining
- Instagram: @trade.splaining
GlobalTrade #TradePolicy #WTO #ReGlobalization #ChineseStimulus #WorkerCenteredPolicy #Podcast #AmbMariaPagan #InternationalBusiness #USTrade #TradeNegotiations #GlobalEconomy #EconomicStimulus #TradeReform #SupplyChain
Episode 68 – Trade, National Security, and the WTO Walk Into a Bar
Welcome to Trade Splaining – the podcast that makes sense of international trade, business, and expat life... without putting you to sleep.
In this special WTO Public Forum edition, your hosts, Rob and Ardian, dive deep into national security, global trade, and even kebabs. Episode 68 brings a lively discussion with special guests Dr. Mona Paulson from the London School of Economics and Professor Greg Messenger from the University of Bristol. This episode is packed with insights on the evolving dynamics of global trade, dispute resolution, and the intersection of trade and national security.
Episode Highlights:
- What’s New at the WTO Public Forum?: Mona and Greg give us the scoop from the heart of Geneva. From re-globalization to security exceptions, we get an insider look at what global leaders and policymakers are focusing on in 2024.
- National Security & Trade – A Growing Tension: Explore how national security is increasingly used as a rationale for trade decisions. Is it a legitimate concern or just an excuse for protectionism? Greg and Mona dissect the legal and political implications.
- Dispute Settlement Crisis at the WTO: With the U.S. absent from key discussions and a massive drop in disputes, is the WTO’s future in jeopardy? Our guests weigh in on the future of multilateralism and whether informal agreements are the new way forward.
- Climate Change and Trade: Developing countries are pushing for climate action within the WTO, but how do we reconcile economic security with environmental protection? Hear from our experts on how the global trade system is adapting to these urgent challenges.
- Is the WTO Appellate Body Done For?: With the U.S. blocking new appointments, how will trade disputes be settled? The rise of unilateral actions and side agreements points to a modular future, but what does that mean for global trade governance?
Key Quotes:
- "The WTO is at an inflection point – it's not about going back to normal, it's about moving forward with a new, inclusive vision for global trade."
- "National security has become the 'get-out-of-jail-free card' for trade restrictions. But is it really justified, or are we just seeing a rise in protectionism?"
About Our Guests:
- Dr. Mona Paulson: Assistant Professor at LSE, specializing in international economic law and trade policy. Her research delves into the intersections of trade, development, and economic security.
- Professor Greg Messenger: Trade law expert at the University of Bristol, co-director of the Trade and Public Policy Network (TAP), and advisor on trade and sustainable development issues in the UK.
Connect With Us:
- Don’t miss an episode – subscribe to Tradesplaining on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.
- Follow us on Twitter: @Tradesplaining for the latest updates and trade jokes.
- Got questions or feedback? Drop us an email at tradesplaining@gmail.com.
Listen, laugh, and learn – all in under an hour!
Episode 67: Cheese Wars, Coal's Comeback, and Strava Jockeys (It’s a thing)
Welcome to Episode 67 of Tradesplaining! In this episode, hosts Rob and Ardian dive into some of the most intriguing and unexpected topics in international trade, business, and expat life.
Here’s what’s on the agenda:
- The Cheese War: Explore the brewing conflict over cheese consumption guidelines. With the U.S. FDA recommending zero servings of cheese, is a dairy showdown between Switzerland and Wisconsin on the horizon?
- Coal’s Comeback: Despite global efforts to transition to renewable energy, coal consumption has surged to record highs. Find out why countries like China and India are doubling down on coal, and what this means for the future of the energy sector.
- Strava Jockeys: Discover the latest trend in outsourcing your exercise routine. Learn how Strava users are hiring others to log their miles and compete with friends without breaking a sweat.
Special Segments:
- Listener Feedback: Rob and Artie share insights and responses from the Tradesplaining community, including thoughts on their recent interview with Dimitri.
- The Vibe Shift: Michelle introduces us to the concept of Strava Jockeys and how globalization is creating new job opportunities in unexpected areas.
- Local News: Dive into some bizarre yet true local stories from Geneva, including a snowball fight turned legal case and the challenges of Swiss egg quotas.
Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to Tradesplaining on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Be sure to leave a review and share the podcast with a friend. You can also find us on YouTube and follow us on social media: Twitter and Instagram.
For questions, comments, or just to say hi, drop us an email at trade.splaining@gmail.com.
Stay tuned, stay informed, and as always, listen responsibly!
Tradesplaining Podcast Episode 66: More EU Regulations, Shifting Summer Tourism and Uncovering Why Politicians Lie About Trade with author Dimitry Grozoubinski
Episode Summary
Welcome to Episode 66 of the Tradesplaining podcast! In this episode, hosts Rob and Ardi dive into the complexities of international trade, explore shifting tourism trends, and discuss why luxury watches may not be the investment they once were. This episode features a special guest interview with Dmitry Grozubinsky, author of "Why Politicians Lie About Trade."
Key Topics Covered
- EU Deforestation Regulation
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The episode kicks off with a discussion on the EU's new deforestation regulation, highlighting its potential impact on international trade and the challenges it poses for importers.
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Shifts in Tourism Trends
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Rob and Ardi explore why high-spending American tourists are now favoring the coast of Poland over traditional destinations like Greece. They discuss the economic implications of this shift and how climate change is influencing travel patterns.
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Investment in Luxury Watches
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A lighthearted yet insightful segment on why watches have historically been a poor investment, complete with humorous anecdotes and market analysis.
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Interview with Dmitry Grozoubinsky
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Dmitry Grozoubinsky, a renowned trade policy expert, joins the podcast to discuss his latest book, "Why Politicians Lie About Trade." Dmitry shares insights on the complexities of trade negotiations and the misinformation often propagated by politicians.
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US Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum
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The hosts delve into the US's recent imposition of retroactive tariffs on steel and aluminum from Mexico, examining the broader implications for trade relations and the Republican platform's stance on tariffs.
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Local News and Watch Industry Trends
- The episode concludes with a segment on local news, focusing on the plummeting value of luxury watches and the introduction of the Bloomberg Subdial Watch Index.
Quotes from the Episode
- Rob on EU Regulations: "If you don't have good data about where your coffee was grown, you could be excluded from the EU market."
- Ardi on Tourism: "High-spending Americans are driving economies across Southern Europe as vacationers take advantage of a strong dollar."
- Dmitry Grozubinsky: "If someone with a large public platform is communicating about an issue in a way that leaves the public with an incomplete or misleading picture, for me that is foundationally indistinguishable from lying."
Listener Engagement
- Subscribe and Share: Don't forget to subscribe to Tradesplaining on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. Share this episode with friends or colleagues interested in international trade and business.
- Feedback:Reach out via Twitter @tradesplaining, Instagram @trade.splaining, or email tradesplaining@gmail.com.
SEO Keywords
- International Trade
- EU Deforestation Regulation
- Tourism Trends 2024
- Luxury Watch Investment
- Dmitry Grozubinsky
- US Tariffs on Steel
- Trade Policy Podcast
Join us for an informative and entertaining episode as we navigate the intricate world of international trade, dissect current economic trends, and share a few laughs along the way. Tune in now and stay informed on the latest in trade and business!
Welcome to Episode 65 of Tradesplaining! This week, hosts Rob and Ardian dive into the intricacies of the U.S. borrowing its way to economic growth, the role of AI in trade, and, of course, the ever-relevant topic of China. They also sit down with Peter S. Goodman, Global Economic Correspondent for The New York Times, to discuss his latest book, "How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain." Tune in for listener feedback, a news roundup, and a few laughs along the way.
Key Topics:
- U.S. Economic Growth and Borrowing:
- Discussion on the U.S. borrowing strategy to fuel economic growth.
- Comparison with Europe's economic performance.
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Insight into global economic policies and their impact.
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AI in Trade:
- Analysis of AI's potential and risks in global trade.
- Perspectives on AI-driven economic disruptions.
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Expert opinions on the future of AI in the trade sector.
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China's Influence:
- Overview of China's role in global trade.
- Recent developments in Chinese trade policies.
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Impact of geopolitical tensions on trade dynamics.
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Interview with Peter S. Goodman:
- In-depth conversation about his book, "How the World Ran Out of Everything."
- Exploration of global supply chain vulnerabilities exposed by the pandemic.
- Stories of real-world impacts on workers and businesses.
- Discussion on the future of supply chain management and resilience.
Segments
- Introduction:
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Hosts Rob and Artie set the stage for the episode with their trademark humor and insights.
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What Went Wrong This Week:
- IKEA's shift in production to North America.
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G7's unified stance on Chinese trade policies.
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Winning in America:
- Analysis of America's recent economic strategies.
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Comparative look at Europe's economic challenges.
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The Vibe Shift:
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Correspondent Michelle discusses the metaverse, IKEA's presence on Roblox, and the evolving landscape of virtual work.
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Local News:
- Public service announcement from Maersk regarding early Christmas orders.
- Light-hearted commentary on current events.
Special Thanks:
- Executive Producer: Michelle O'Geen
- Production Assistance: Armina Sinani
Subscribe & Follow:
Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to Tradesplaining on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and now on YouTube. Leave us a review and share with friends!
Connect with Us:
- Twitter: @Tradesplaining
- Instagram: @Trade.splaining
- Email: tradesplaining@gmail.com
Listen Responsibly!
Optimize your podcast experience by tuning in to Episode 65 of Tradesplaining, where international trade meets humor and insight. Dive deep into economic strategies, AI's impact on trade, and learn from industry expert Peter S. Goodman. Perfect for listeners passionate about global economics, supply chain management, and staying informed with a touch of wit.
Episode 64 - "The Tariffs Keep on Coming, While Mexico is Stuck in the Middle"
Hosts: Ardian Mollabeqiri and Robert Skidmore
Guest: Lars Karlsson, Global Head of Trade and Customs Consulting at Maersk
Episode Summary
Welcome to Episode 64 of Trade Splaining, the podcast that makes sense of international trade, business, and expat life without putting you to sleep—most of the time. In this episode, we dive into Mexico's strategic position in the ongoing US-China trade tensions, the rising trend of tariffs, and the surprising new role of TikTok in career development. Our special guest, Lars Karlsson, sheds light on navigating trade in an era of uncertainty.
Key Segments
- Introduction and Episode Overview
- Hosts: Ardian Mollabeqiri and Robert Skidmore
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Topics: Mexico's economic opportunities amid US-China tensions, the rise of tariffs, and TikTok’s role in career networking.
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News Highlights
- Swiss Watchmaker's Success: Recep Recepi’s watch auctioned for $4.3 million.
- Listener Feedback: Germany's proposed price cap on kebabs.
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Tariffs Update: President Biden’s new tariffs on EVs, semiconductors, and solar cells targeting Chinese goods.
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Main Discussion Points
- Mexico’s Economic Position:
- The impact of US-China trade disputes on Mexican manufacturing.
- Benefits from the USMCA trade agreement.
- Global Trade Conflicts:
- Turkey suspending trade with Israel due to the Gaza conflict.
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Security threats in the Red Sea causing shipping route changes and increased CO2 emissions.
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Interview with Lars Karlsson
- Trade in an Uncertain World:
- Insights into global trade volatility.
- The importance of digitalization and resilience in supply chains.
- Future Trends:
- The impact of new trade compliance regulations.
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The balance between resilience and sustainability in trade.
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Local News and Fun Segments
- Stolen Bike Recovery in Geneva: Innovative approaches to preventing bike theft.
- Migration Panic: Capturing female Asian wasps in Switzerland.
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Euro Mullet Competition: Details about the upcoming mullet competition in Valais.
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Closing Remarks
- A reminder to subscribe, review, and follow the podcast on various platforms.
Notable Quotes
- Lars Karlsson on Resilience: "We are getting more resilience. We are more accurate in what we do. And we are doing that in a more volatile and insecure situation for trade than ever before."
- Ardi on Trade Conflicts: "Trade is just sort of a passenger on the ship, and it's really not the one driving the car right?"
- Rob on Digitalization: "The digitalization of trade and the use of data in supply chains are accelerating, making it easier to handle new regulations and crises."
Featured Links
- Maersk - Learn more about Lars Karlsson’s work and Maersk’s trade solutions.
- USMCA Trade Agreement - Explore the benefits and details of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement.
Connect with Us
- Twitter: @Tradesplaining
- Instagram: @trade.splaining
- Email: tradesplaining@gmail.com
Subscribe & Review:
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
- Google Podcasts
- YouTube
InternationalTrade #Tariffs #MexicoEconomy #SupplyChain #TikTokCareers #TradeCompliance #Podcast #TradeNews
Credits:
- Hosts: Ardian Mollabeqiri and Robert Skidmore
- Guest: Lars Karlsson
- Executive Producer: Michelle Olguin
- Production Assistance: Armina Sinani
Disclaimer: Remember to listen responsibly and share this episode with friends and colleagues interested in the latest trends in international trade and business.
Episode 63 - Bidenomics, Swiss Voters & Navigating the Path to Net-zero (or not)
Episode Overview:
In this thought-provoking episode of Tradesplaining, hosts Rob and Marty delve into the complexities of global trade policies, the implications of Swiss electoral decisions, and the realistic challenges of achieving net-zero emissions. Key topics include an in-depth discussion on "Bidenomics" and its impact on U.S. trade, a landmark legal case in Switzerland on climate action, and various perspectives on sustainability and environmental policies.
Featured Segments:
- Bidenomics and Trade Policy: Analysis of the current U.S. trade policies under the Biden administration, with a focus on tariffs and their economic implications.
- Swiss Legal Landmarks: Examination of a recent Swiss court case where elderly plaintiffs successfully argued that inadequate governmental action on climate change violated their human rights.
- Navigating Net-Zero: Insights into the global struggle between economic needs and environmental goals, featuring viewpoints from industry leaders on the challenges of sustainable energy transitions.
Special Guest:
Nicole Bivens Collinson, a principal at Sandler Travis Rosenberg, joins to offer her expertise on the shifts in trade dynamics and the evolution of global trade agreements.
Listener Engagement:
Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and leave a review. Feedback is highly valued to shape future episodes and address listener interests in international trade, sustainability, and policy impacts.
Keywords:
International Trade, Bidenomics, Swiss Voters, Climate Change, Net-Zero Emissions, U.S. Trade Policy, Environmental Policy, Sustainable Energy, Economic Impacts of Tariffs, Global Trade Agreements.
Closing Thoughts:
The episode wraps up with a forward-looking discussion on the role of policy in shaping future economic and environmental landscapes, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global markets and societal well-being.
Tune in to Tradesplaining for deep dives into complex topics with a touch of humor to keep it engaging. Available on all major podcast platforms.**
Episode 62: Unraveling the Threads of Global Trade and the Quirks of Expat Life
Welcome to Episode 62 of TradeSplaining, where your hosts, Rob and Ardi, along with special guest Don Brasher, dive deep into the intricacies of international trade, business, and the expat experience. Get ready to be enlightened and entertained as we explore everything from supply chain challenges to the unique lifestyle of living abroad.
In This Episode:
- Jim Croce's Mysteries, Rolex and the Atomic Number of Samarium: We kick off with a light-hearted debate on Jim Croce’s roots and a fascinating fact about samarium. Yes, trade and expat life discussions can start from anywhere!
- Trade Data Insights with Don Brasher: Don Brasher, founder and president of Trade Data Monitor, joins us to shed light on trade statistics, their significance, and some pitfalls to watch out for. His expertise illuminates the often complex world of global merchandise trade, offering listeners an exclusive peek behind the statistical curtain.
- Global Events Impacting Trade: From a massive container ship striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge to the soaring prices of cocoa, we cover how recent events underscore the fragility and dynamism of global supply chains. Listen in as we dissect the implications of these events on businesses and consumers alike.
- Populism and Protectionism in Trade Policies: Explore how current trends in populism are influencing trade and domestic policies across the globe. We delve into the Biden administration's stance on significant steel industry events and the ongoing debate between the US and the EU over steel and aluminum disputes.
- The Expat Focus: Our conversation takes a lighter turn as we navigate the peculiarities of expat life, including the challenges and joys of adapting to new cultures and navigating the complexities of international living.
- Tasman AI – A Creative Twist on Globalization: Discover how Tasmania is offering a slow alternative to AI, bridging global creativity with local artists. It's globalization with a personal touch.
- Puppy Yoga in Geneva – A Local Glimpse: Ever heard of puppy yoga? Find out why it's causing a stir in Geneva and what it says about local regulations and the universal quest for relaxation and happiness.
Why Listen to This Episode?
- Insights from Trade Experts: Gain valuable insights from Don Brasher and our hosts, who bring years of experience in international trade and economics.
- Diverse Topics: From serious trade discussions to quirky expat tales, this episode has something for everyone.
- Engagement: Engage with a community of listeners interested in the nuances of global trade, business strategies, and the expat lifestyle.
Subscribe and Join Us!
Don't miss out on future episodes – subscribe to TradeSplaining on your favorite podcast platform. Share your thoughts and join our community on Twitter (@tradesplaining) or Instagram (@trade.splaining).
TradeSplaining is more than a podcast; it's your gateway to understanding the complex world of international trade and the unique adventures of expat life. Listen responsibly!
Episode 61: Unpacking MC13 while Switzerland, India and EFTA Make Trade Great AgainHosts: Rob and Ardian
Episode Summary: Welcome to Tradesplaining, where we unravel the complex world of international trade, business, and expat life. In Episode 61, we delve into the aftermath of MC 13, explore the trade dynamics between Switzerland, India, and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), and discuss the EU's sustainability due diligence. Join us as we dissect these topics with wit, insights, and a dash of humor. Special guest Noelia Garcia Nebra, Head of Sustainability at ISO, shares her expertise on sustainability standards, trade, and more.
Featured Topics:
- MC 13 Wrap-Up: An in-depth analysis of the outcomes and implications of the 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
- Switzerland-India-EFTA Trade Dynamics: Examining the new trade deals, their significance, and the role of sustainability and human rights in trade agreements.
- EU Sustainability Due Diligence: The challenges and controversies surrounding the EU's approach to corporate sustainability in the supply chain.
- Special Guest: Noelia Garcia Nebra discusses the role of sustainability standards in international trade and the impact of ISO's work on global trade practices.
Key Highlights:
- Discover the intricate balance between national interests and collective goals in global trade negotiations.
- Uncover the strategic significance of the Switzerland-India-EFTA trade deal and its implications for global trade networks.
- Explore the EU's stance on sustainability due diligence and its effects on businesses and trade policies.
- Gain valuable insights from Noelia Garcia Nebra of ISO on how sustainability standards can foster a more equitable and efficient global trading system.
Episode Extras:
- Listener Feedback: We dive into your comments and questions, providing our unique takes on your inquiries.
- News Roundup: A quick-fire segment covering the latest in trade, business, and expat life.
- Dad Jokes Galore: Because no episode is complete without our trademark humor.
Subscribe and Follow: Catch future episodes and join the Tradesplaining community by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Don't forget to leave us a review and follow us on Twitter (@tradesplaining) and Instagram (@trade.splaining) for more updates and engaging content.
Welcome to Episode 60 of Trade Splaining. This episode, we're zooming into the challenges global policymakers face at MC13 in Abu Dhabi, touching on climate change, inflation, and the fragmentation affecting the global economic landscape.
Key Highlights:
- Global Policymaker's Dilemma: We dive into the pressing issues facing global policymakers, including climate change, inflation, and fragmentation. The discussions at MC13 in Abu Dhabi are crucial for setting the future direction of international trade and policy.
- Viagra in Geneva: A humorous yet insightful look into customs regulations and what constitutes "personal use" in Geneva. A quirky reminder of the unexpected intersections between trade regulations and personal life.
- WTO Ministerial Conference (MC 13): We provide a rundown on what to expect from the upcoming #WTO Ministerial Conference, including insights from Inu Manak and Dmitry Grozoubinski. Their perspectives offer a hopeful outlook on trade negotiations, the importance of WTO reform and look at the potential outcomes of MC 13 and future direction of global trade policy.
Tune in to Trade Splaining Episode 60 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review!
Episode 59: Red Sea Shipping, Sustainable Farming in the EU and More Evergrande with Simon Evenett
Welcome to Episode 59 of Tradesplaining - This week, we cool our ambitions on a new global trade route through the Middle East, delve into the EU's farm-to-fork policy causing a stir in Geneva, and explore economic jenga in the Chinese real estate sector.
Key Highlights:
- Global Trade Insights: Simon Evenett from the University of St. Gallen and the Global Trade Alert joins us to dissect the complexities of trade measures, industrial policy, and introduces the kebab index as a novel economic tool.
- Local Flavors, Global Tastes: How the EU's farm-to-fork strategy impacts international trade dynamics and Geneva's unique work-from-home culture.
- Economic Tectonics: Unpacking the Chinese real estate market's instability and its global repercussions.
- Cultural Crossroads: From Arnold Schwarzenegger's customs saga to the lanthanide series and the 59th Street Bridge, we explore the intersections of culture, trade, and policy.
In This Episode:
- Simon Evenett's Take: Why skepticism toward trade measures and industrial policy is warranted, and the potential of the kebab index.
- Economic Corridors on Ice: The challenges facing the ambitious India Middle East Europe economic corridor (IMEC) amidst regional instability.
- Organic Farmers' Protest: A closer look at the grassroots movement in France and its implications for global agriculture and trade policies.
- The Real Estate Domino: Analyzing the collapse of Evergrande and its impact on the global economy.
Listener Engagement:
We value your feedback and invite you to share your thoughts on today's topics. Email us at tradesplaining@gmail.com or engage with us on Twitter (@tradesplaining) and Instagram (@tradesplaining).
Subscribe & Review:
Don’t forget to subscribe to catch every episode and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us make sense of the complex world of international trade without the yawn factor.
01:07 Hate Mail
06:24 What Went Wrong This Week
18:40 Interview
34:35 Vibe Shift
37:30 This Week in Local News
39:14 Outro
Tradesplaining Episode 58: Fairtrade in an Age of Regulation and The Bow Tax
In the 58th episode of the Tradesplaining podcast, hosts Rob and Ardian explore international trade, business, and expat life. They discuss U.S. chip restrictions affecting markets for graphics chip manufacturer NVIDIA, the relevance of Fairtrade in an era of regulation, and the impact of inflation on consumers.
Special guest Fabian Waldemeyer of Fairtrade Max Havelaar shares insights on Fairtrade's role in the current era, how it ensures the fairness of their sourcing, and their partnerships with corporates. He speaks about Fairtrade's impact including price and income stability, strengthening of democratic structures, and capacity building in smallholder setups. Waldmeier believes that with new regulations, Fairtrade is as relevant as before if not more.
The episode also features a segment on the 'vibe shift' touching on the emerging trend of the 'bow tax' in fashion and customer queues for the new Swatch-Blanca watch collaboration. Lastly, Switzerland's 'Animal of the Year', the Polecat, gets a special mention.
01:23 Hate Mail
07:18 What Went Wrong This Week
19:22 Interview
38:16 Vibe Shift
41:14 Local News
Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Cristi Bagsic for helping in produce this....and every Trade Splaining episode.
trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #CBAM #EVs #GreenTransition #Nearshoring #Fertilizer #IRA #chipsact #carbonreduction #sustainability #ai #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva #Trade #Globalization #Podcast #Conversational #FairTrade #Switzerland #Business #Economics #Swatch #Sustainability #MaxHavelar #Inflation #Chips
In this year-end episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Rob and Ardian discuss significant events in international trade in 2023 and predict potential trends for 2024. They recap COP 28, identify the new challenges within trading systems such as supply chain crises, and talk about changes in local news and living situations due to inflation.
The duo also addresses geopolitical risks, climate change impacts on global shipping canals, and the trade shifts between nations. Further, they touch on AI applications in trade, national security, and their first revenue breakthrough for Trade Splaining.
Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Cristi Bagsic for helping in produce this....and every Trade Splaining episode.
trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #CBAM #EVs #GreenTransition #Nearshoring #Fertilizer #IRA #chipsact #carbonreduction #sustainability #ai #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva
On Episode 56:
👉 Early returns from COP 28, land the adventures of a rare duck in geneva.
👉 Tesla goes at it with Swedish workers and what it could mean for the future of labor rights
👉 Global Minimum Corporate Tax facing doubts
Also joining Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore this episode is Valerie Picard, Head of Trade at the International Chamber of Commerce, to talk about whether business has become less engaged in trade policy debates, how they deal with an expanding trade agenda and if multilateral institutions are really fit for purpose
Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Cristi Bagsic for helping in produce this....and every Trade Splaining episode.
trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #CBAM #EVs #GreenTransition #Nearshoring #Fertilizer #IRA #chipsact #carbonreduction #sustainability #ai #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva
On Episode 55:
👉 Do high interest rates, inflation and geopolitical tensions and other factors driving an increased focus on energy security make the path to a low-carbon future look less straightforward?
👉 Looking at the Biden administrations failure to reach an agreement on the trade pillar of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework Agreement (IPEF) and why it's decision to reduce it's ambition on digital trade may have played a major role
👉 More China De-risking as foreign firms are looking for better uses for their money with a slowing Chinese economy and rising geopolitical tensions
👉 Share-enting, Bedazzling, and more on the future of globalization!
Also joining Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore this episode is Ralph Ossa - Chief Economist at the World Trade Organization (WTO) - to talk about making the case for trade, what success looks like for the Chief Economist and thoughts on kebab..finally we find a non-vegetarian.
Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Cristi Bagsic for helping in produce this....and every Trade Splaining episode.
trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #CBAM #EVs #GreenTransition #Nearshoring #Fertilizer #IRA #chipsact #carbonreduction #sustainability #ai #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva
On Episode 54:
👉 Will workers be left out of the coming Green Transition?
👉 Does nearshoring mean that American manufacturing is back?
👉 How COVID-related supply shocks continue to affect commodity markets - this time fertilizer
👉 Blancpain, Rob and Lars's Trade Splaining spinoff, and more!
Also joining Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore this episode is Bernie Kuiten - Head of External Relations at the WTO - to talk about how the WTO manages to get its message across and engage with others during uncertain times.
Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Cristina Bagsic for helping in produce this....and every Trade Splaining episode.
trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #CBAM #EVs #GreenTransition #Nearshoring #Fertilizer #IRA #chipsact #carbonreduction #sustainability #ai #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva
On Episode 53:
👉 Looking ahead to COP28
👉 The EU leaning in with the CBAM finally taking effect October 1
👉 Winners and Losers from a fragmenting trade enviornment
👉 Electric vehicles encapsulating many of the issues we see around trade, labor and the environment
Joining Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore this episode is Fitore Pula of the International Committee of the Red Cross - ICRC to talk about the link between trade and humanitarian assistance.
Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Cristina Bagsic in what may be her last episode with Trade Splaining.
trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #CBAM #EVs #IRA #chipsact #brexit #carbonneutral #carbonreduction #sustainability #ai #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva
On Episode 52:
👉 Looking at how slumping demand in China may to be dragging down global trade
👉 Why the days of tax free Digital Trade may be slowly coming to an end
👉 Why auto industry sales may be the canary in the coal mine for global growth
Joining Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore this episode is Ann-Kathrin Zotz and Caroline Foerster of White Label Project, to talk about sustainable fashion and sustainable trade, whether upcoming EU regulation affects businesses likes theirs...and fashion advice for me and Rob.
Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Valentina Saponara in what may be her last episode with Trade Splaining.
trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #sustainablefashion #IRA #chipsact #brexit #carbonneutral #carbonreduction #sustainability #ai #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva
TradeSplaining is back with a new episode!
Listen wherever you get you podcasts :http://ibit.ly/uJzpT
👉 Looking at how Climate Change, AI and War are Changing trade in ways that are increasingly visible
👉 How the Hollywood writers strike marks a new chapter when talking about technology and labor
👉 More animal stories in Switzerland: this time attack of the cows
Joining Ardian Mollabeciri and Rob Skidmore this episode is André Schneider, CEO of Geneva Airport, to talk about why we need a nuanced discussion around decarbonizing air travel, the impacts as well as talking about his unique and varied career so far.
Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Valentina Saponara.
trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #IRA #chipsact #brexit #carbonneutral #carbonreduction #sustainability #ai #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva #airport
On this special milestone episode, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Arancha Gonzalez, Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs at Sciences Po for former Foreign Minister of Spain, for an even more special in person interview to discuss what it will take to make multilateralism work, what a more realistic EU policy toward China would look like... and her favorite food in Geneva (HINT: not kebabs)
They also look at how security interests continue to drive inefficient trade policy between China, the United States and the rest of the West, how more Western companies are siloing parts of their businesses in China as they try to lower risks from tensions between Washington and Beijing, the rise of Wageflation and try to unpack what it all means.
TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is taking a break this episode from giving her thoughts on the end of globalization but will be back next episode.
Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!
trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #Microchips #Chips #IRA #CHIPSACT #ArtificialIntelligence #derisking #greedflation #wageflation #AI #africa #lithium #greentransition #ExportControls #inflation #inflationreductionact #foodcrisis #tradewar #bigtech #tech #supplychain #unions #tariffs #exportbans #supplychains #tradesplaining #wto #podcast #covid #podcasting #podcast #globalization #eu #chatgpt #business #sustainability
On this episode, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Chris Miller, Associate Professor of International History at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, Jeane Kirkpatrick Visiting Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and author of "Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology" to discuss the decades-long battle to control what has emerged as the world's most critical resource—microchip technology—with the United States and China increasingly in conflict.
They also look at how climate change might finally start to alter consumption and trade patterns as well as the perfect storm of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and demographics - and what it might mean for societies going forward.
TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is taking a break this episode from giving her thoughts on the end of globalization but will be back next episode.
Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!
trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #Microchips #Chips #IRA #CHIPSACT #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #africa #lithium #greentransition #ExportControls #inflation #inflationreductionact #foodcrisis #tradewar #bigtech #tech #supplychain #unions #tariffs #exportbans #supplychains #tradesplaining #wto #podcast #covid #podcasting #podcast #globalization #eu #chatgpt #business #sustainability
On this episode, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Annette Ssemuwemba, Deputy Executive Director at the Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF) at the World Trade Organization (WTO), to discuss the rationale behind promoting trade for least developed countries, and veggie kebabs.
They also look at warnings about commercial real estate prices (there's a trade angle in there we promise), changing luxury trends and how climate change is affecting supply chains,
TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!
trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #IRA #creditsuisse #ubs #alibaba #antitrust #africa #lithium #greentransition #ExportControls #inflation #inflationreductionact #foodcrisis #tradewar #bigtech #tech #supplychain #unions #bloomberg #tariffs #exportbans #supplychains #tradesplaining #wto #podcast #covid #podcasting #podcast #shipping #maersk #msc #globalization #eu #chatgpt #business #humanrights #sustainability
On this episode, we're joined by Kent Wilska, Director of the Sustainable Trade Unit at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, to discuss what a Sustainable Trade Unit does, why Finland has one...and why hot water is a key criteria for living in Scandinavia
We also look at more warnings about the global economic outlook - this time from the IMF, China, Belt and Road and why Market Access might matter more when it comes to negotiating trade deals.
TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!
On this episode, we're joined by Iana Dreyer, Founder and Editor of Borderlex, to discuss the state of EU and US trade relations, where we go from here and also...why pizza > kebab
We also touch base on the fallout from Credit Suisse collapse, the renewed focus on the African continent as the race for raw materials fueling the green transition hits another gear and what Ardi and Gwyneth Paltrow have in common (HINT:Skiing accidents and Bone Broth)
TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!
On this episode, we're joined once again by Professor Dorothy Bauman, Director of the University of Geneva and NYU Stern Center's for Business and Human Rights to discuss the state of play for business and human rights work post-Covid and what it meant for developing countries.
We also touch base on the latest on India's continued emergence on the global economic and geo-political scene, the SVB Bank collapse as well as the Oscars recap, the latest on the tree situation in Geneva and more!
TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!
On this episode, we're joined once again by Jan Hoffmann, Chief - Trade Logistics Branch at UNCTAD, to discuss the state of play for the shipping industry post-Covid, what it's meant for developing countries and what trends to look out for as we get deeper into 2023?
We also touch base on the latest is the gradual escalation of economic tensions between China and the United States, changing of the guard at the World Bank and more!
TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!
On this episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Richard Baldwin, author and Professor of International Economics at the Graduate Institute in Geneva, Switzerland joins Trade Splaining once again to discuss how what advances in AI like ChatGPT mean for his past predictions on the future of work and international trade, his takeaways from Davos and more.
Ardian and Rob also touch base on the state of export controls and green subsidies as well as the state of play at the WTO...and snow-shoe-ing
TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!
On this episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Alessandro Fedele, Global Head, Private Sector, Innovative Financing, Strategy and Support at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies - IFRC. They talk about the private sectors relationship to humanitarian aid and discover why the link is stronger then many assume at first.
They also dive into the latest on 2023 and talk about the death...or not...of globalization (again), Davos, China and more. There also may or may not also be a few updates on Harry and Meghan 🤷♂️
TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!
On this episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore look back on the year that was 2022 and recap the biggest new stories and trends and look forward to 2023 and what the forecast looking ahead.
The include rising trade tensions between the US and the EU, the WTO, anti-trust and Big Tech, China's de-coupling, the rise and fall of global freight shipping, global supply chains and of course: inflation
On this episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Peter S. Goodman, Global Economics Correspondent for the New York Times and author of Davos Man: How the Billionaires Devoured the World.
They talk about why he believes rising inequality and the concentration of wealth among billionaires has come not only at the expense of most of the world’s population but has not been by accident or natural result of “Globalization”, but rather a conscious push by “Davos Men”. We also talk about why he believes trade oftentimes incorrectly bears the brunt of this blame and carrys so many negative consequences.
Ardian and Rob also digest the latest news coming from COP27, Germany and Apples political and economic dilemma when it comes to China and the US, the OECDs Global Minimum Tax as well as big layoffs in the tech industry.
The co-hosts are also joined by TS producer Michelle Olguin as she also gives her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers, Gen X....and even Millenial's noses.
On this episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Shannon O'Neil, Vice President, Deputy Director of Studies, and Nelson and David Rockefeller Senior Fellow for Latin America Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations
They talk about why we should look closer to home when talking about the benefits of Globalization, what we get wrong when messaging it...and the best taco spots in New York City.
Ardian and Rob also digest the latest news on recently announced US Export Controls on China's Semi-conductor Industry, inflation continuing to wreak havoc on developing and developed nations alike, and the latest on New York City's "War on Rats".
The co-hosts are also joined by TS producer Michelle Olguin as she also gives her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
On this episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Caroline Freund, Dean of the UC San Diego School of Global Policy and Strategy and former Global Director of Trade, Investment and Competitiveness at the World Bank.
They talk about how political considerations are shifting trade patterns, what students are learning today that's different from past generations....and of course, San Diego kebabs.
Ardian and Rob also talk about the latest news on how the global economy has caught the inflation bug, Industrial policy by a different name, China's new and improved Belt & Road 2.0, unions and the future of work.
The co-hosts are also joined by TS producer Michelle Olguin as she also gives her thoughts on the end of globalization and the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
On this episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Dmitry Grozoubinski, lead trainer of ExplainTrade, Executive Director of the Geneva Trade Platform at the Graduate Institute's Centre for Trade and Economic Integration, and Visiting Professor at the University of Strathclyde’s School of Law. They talk about how he’s seen the discussion around trade change over the past decade, his advice for young people and what its like being from... New Zealand???
Ardian and Rob also talk about the latest news related to the continued fallout from geopolitical tensions in Taiwan and China as well as seeing the effects of tariffs and why falling commodities prices may not be so great for developing countries
The co-hosts are also joined by TS producer Michelle Olguin as she also gives her thoughts on the end of globalization and the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
On this episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined Bryce Baschuk, Geneva-based reporter for Bloomberg News. They talk about what it's like covering the WTO, how covering the trade beat has evolved over the past decade, and why there is still hope.
Ardian and Rob also talk about the latest news related to how climate change and geopolitical tensions in Taiwan and elsewhere are affecting international trade patterns as well as the tech bubble bursting, or not.
The co-hosts are also joined by TS producer Michelle Olguin as she also gives her thoughts on the end of globalization and the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
On this episode of TradeSplaining, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined Ian Goldin - Director of the Martin School and Professor at the University of Oxford. They talk about why globalization gets such a bad rap, where it can be improved and how it can be a solution to many of the worlds issues. Ian also muses on why the world also needs more vegan kebabs.
Ardian and Rob also talk about the latest economic news coming out of China (Hint:debt is involved), rising interest rates and the real and growing potential for a global food crisis as well as how trade still seems to find a way to function despite the fragmentation of the global trading system
The co-hosts are also joined by TS producer Michelle Olguin as she also gives her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
Ian Goldin is Professor of Globalisation and Development at the University of Oxford, Director of the Oxford Martin Programmes on Technological and Economic Change, Future of Work and Future of Development and founding Director of the Oxford Martin School. His twitter address is @ian_goldin and website https://iangoldin.org/.
On this episode of TradeSplaining, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined Chad P. Bown - Reginald Jones Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics (PIIE).
They talk about what we learned from MC12, whether geopolitical considerations more important to economists now than they were before, whose winning the Trade War (hint: nobody) as well as his pick for favorite guilty pleasure in Geneva.
Ardian and Rob also digest the WTO Ministerial Conference 12, whether the nature of trade and supply chains is shifting, as well as the latest from the US as a forced labor bill meant to target forced labor in China and Xinjiang.
The co-hosts are also joined by TS producer Michelle Olguin as she also gives her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses...this time from Tinder.
On this episode of TradeSplaining, Lars Karlsson - Global Head of Trade & Customs consulting at A.P. Møller-Mærsk joins hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore on Trade Splaining to talk about yet more changes supply chains, what we should expect... and his favorite Vikings tv show
They also discuss the latest on the latest news on the Big Tech front, what the future holds for ESG, China's exports and more!
The co-hosts are also joined by TS producer Michelle Olguin as she also gives her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
On this episode of TradeSplaining, Inu Mank - Trade Policy Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations - joins hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore on Trade Splaining to talk about the United States perspective on the WTO as well as her views on Globalization and why we should all visit Geneva
They also discuss the latest on why oil is still king, whether de-globalization is something we should be worried about, the latest on baby formula and export bans in India.
The co-hosts are also joined by TS producer Michelle Olguin as she also gives her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses.
On this episode of TradeSplaining, Jan Eeckhout - author, economist and professor - joins hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore on Trade Splaining to talk about what why we should be concerned about market concentration and what should be done about it. Also: kebabs.
They also discuss the latest hot takes on why Globalization is ending and the French elections, what Netflix's drop says about competition in the industry and their take on Elon Musk's takeover of Twitter.
The co-hosts are also joined by TS producer Michelle as she also gives her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses, as well as the latest from Local News.
On this episode of Tradesplaining, Ardi finally returns from his unpaid sick leave ready with the hot takes on globalisation, supply chains, and of course watches.
Join them as they share their thoughts on supply chains, as well as the equally important disappearance of the iconic duo Coco and Roxy.
The co-hosts are also joined by TS producer Michelle as she also gives her thoughts on organized labor, as well as the latest from Local News.
Join Rob and Michelle as they discuss Ukraine and Russia, Russia and Ukraine, and the future of the WTO.
And in an interview recorded before the conflict between Russia and Ukraine began, special Guest Anabel González, WTO deputy director general, formerly senior fellow at PIIE & host of Trade Winds, senior director at the World Bank, and Costa Rica trade minister joins to explain how the WTO is facing the post COVID times and the future of trade in general.
Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore explore what we always get wrong about China with recovering ex-journalist and founder of Darken Light Consulting Rachel Morarjee
Michelle Olguin debuts as co-host for the new roundup as weep28 tackle such issues as:
- where on God's green earth is Ardi?
- the anti-work movement
- why the boom is ending for Peleton and Netflix
- Gruyère cheese under threat
- how US sanctions on Russia could reinforce the fragmentation of global trade and tech
In the final episode of 2021 , Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore close out the year in their very own Trade Splaining way by recapping the year that was, the key takeaways they gathered from guests along the way and what we can expect for 2022.
Kristina Touzenis, Head of the Geneva Chapter of Women in Sustainable Finance and Former Head of International Migration Law Unit at the International Organization for Migration joins hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore on Trade Splaining to talk about what Environmental, Social and Governance is all about, how its changed and where its going. Also: kebabs.
On this episode, Ardian and Rob also discuss:
- The latest on the WTO Ministerial Conference 12, which has been postponed
- Another escalation in trade tensions between the United States and China
- Whether ESG has become profitable for companies
- How Organized labor is using the post-COVID landscape as an opportunity
- Local News
- Listener Feedback
Dr. Mark Esposito, scholar, Co-founder and Chief Learning Officer of Nexus Frontier Tech joins hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore on Trade Splaining to talk about mega-trends, his views on China's tech crackdown, why our future doesn't have to be as bleak as the latest James Cameron film and what policymakers need to understand better about tech companies.
On this episode, Ardian and Rob also discuss:
- Follow-up to the discussion on Evergrande crisis
- The latest on Chinese bond markets and tech IPOs
- Xi-Jinpings new place in Chinese Communist Party history
- The latest on COP 26
- The latest on Facebook / Meta , whistleblowers and the Metaverse
- Local News
- Listener Feedback
Susan Ariel Aaronson, Director of the Digital Trade and Data Governance Hub at George Washington University Elliott School of International Affairs in Washington, D.C. joins hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore on Trade Splaining to talk about why data governance is so difficult to get right, why it matters...and what we can do about it. She also gives her own special take on kebabs.
On this episode, Ardian and Rob also discuss:
- The Evergrande crisis and what the bursting of China's housing bubble means for the rest of the world
- The skyrocketing rise in applications by countries to join global trade agreements
- Whether or not today's tech companies really are modern day monopolies
- Local News
- Listener Feedback
Lars Karlsson, Global Head of Trade and Customs at A.P. Møller – Mærsk joins hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore on Trade Splaining to talk about why we should be excited about the future of customs, which areas companies like Mærsk are focusing....and his favorite Bruce Springsteen song.
On this episode, Ardian and Rob also discuss:
- Continuing supply chains issues affecting the globe
- How spending by the rich on a luxury boom is driving the US economic recovery
- The skyrocketing prices of luxury watches
- How China's domestic tech crackdown may have affect luxury markets
- Whether consumer behaviour has changed due to COVID
- Whether Brands still matter
Al Gina, president and co-founder of CT strategies and former assistant commissioner for international trade at the US customs and border protection joins hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore on Trade Splaining to talk about how customs has changed over the past 30+ years, what are some of the challenges governments now face which people aren't aware of....and his bets memories of Staten Island
On this episode, Ardian and Rob also discuss:
- The latest on the UN Climate Report
- Why surging demand for commodities and lack of supply has been great for trading firms
- China's domestic tech crackdown
- How the rich are getting richer in the business world almost two years after COVID
- Potential for increased regulation and sustainable value chains
- The best in local news from Geneva and elsewhere
International trade scholar Simon Evenett of the University of St. Gallen Dr. joins hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore on Trade Splaining to talk about why we should be worried about global trade restrictions, what can be done...and whether Ridley Scott really is better than Peter Jackson
On this episode, Ardian and Rob also discuss:
- The new G7 agreement on a global corporate minimum tax
- How tariffs have had unintended consequences on China and Australia's trade relationship
- China's unorthodox attempts at managing inflation at home
- The best in local news from Geneva and elsewhere
Customs and international trade expert Dr. Anna Jerzewska joins hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore on Trade Splaining to recap where we are almost six months after Brexit day, why inclusiveness is important for expanding the discussion...and vegan kebabs
On this episode, Ardian and Rob also discuss:
- Supply chain gluts, commodity price rises, and global inflation fears
- The impact of Trumps tariffs
- Switzerlands stalled deal with the EU
- The best in local news from Geneva and elsewhere
Trade & Borders is a London and Geneva based customs and international trade consultancy specializing in delivering bespoke advice to a broad range of clients, offering strategic and operational support on a wide range of customs and trade policy matters to both private and public sector clients.
https://tradeandborders.com/
Trade experts Scott Miller and Bill Reinsch, co-hosts of the Trade Guys podcast at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) join hosts Ardian Mollabecir and Robert Skidmore on Trade Splaining to recap the first 100 days of President Joe Biden's Administration and talk about whether the United States' trade policy has reached a new normal and where we go from here.
On this episode, Ardian and Rob also discuss:
- US backing of Covid-19 vaccine waivers
- Chinese manufactures sidestepping trade barriers via investment
- The global chip shortage and US Commerce Secretary's response
The Trade Guys is hosted every week by H. Andrew Schwartz, Scott Miller and Bill Reinsch at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a nonpartisan think tank in Washington, D.C.
https://www.csis.org/podcasts/trade-guys
Doaa Abdel-Motaal, Senior Counsellor at the World Trade Organization in Geneva, Switzerland joins Trade Splaining to talk about the not-so-obvious links between agriculture, trade and sustainability and in between opining on her favorite shawarma, offers up some counter-intuitive advice for consumers and business alike.
In this episode we discuss:
- Respond to listener mail and introducing the newest member of the team
- Swiss referendums with trade implications
- New Zealand embracing automation in the agriculture sector
- How climate change is affecting the salmon trade
- Joe Biden's big climate climate plans
- This week in local Geneva news
The TradeSplainers are joined by Ronald Steenblik, Non-resident Senior Fellow at the International Institute for Sustainable Development to talk about the links between trade, the environment and sustainability...and why its not always as clear cut as it sounds.
On this episode we discuss:
- Listener feedback / Hate Mail
- Global shipping hubs brac for container deluge in the aftermath of the Suez Canal Crisis
- United States comes under fire for "vaccine hoarding"
- Proposed climate summit to focus on potential carbon taxes
- Volkswagen and Porsche are all in on electric
- Overheard at the UN Beach
- This Week in Local News
Jan Hoffmann, Head of the Trade Logistics Branch at the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) joins the Trade Splainers to discuss:
- What exactly went wrong with the Ever Given in the Suez Canal
- The impacts of the blockage on shipping and global trade
- Why containers are so expensive
- How all of this is compounded by COVID
Dorothée Baumann-Pauly, Director of the Geneva University Centre for Business and Human Rights and Research Director at the NYU Stern Center for Business and Human Rights joins Trade Splaining to discuss why focusing on human rights makes total business sense for companies, what its like splitting time between New York City and Switzerland and who wins between Lidl and Aldi.
In this episode we discuss:
- Respond to listener mail
- New developments on the judiciary front for businesses that violate human rights legislation
- Nike facing social media backlash in China over Xinjiang
- The Evergreen Ever Given, the Suez Canal and the plumbing of trade
- Return of the UN Word of the Day
- This week in local Geneva news
Pierre Sauvé, Senior Trade Specialist at the World Bank joins Trade Splaining to discuss why services trade is different and how trade policy can help smooth out trade liberalizations rough edges.
In this episode we discuss:
- Respond to listener mail
- New leadership at the WTO and UNCTAD
- Facebook, Google and Australia
- Covid-induced disruptions in trade patterns
- Apple car in the news
- This week in local Geneva news
Ziyang David Fan, Head of Digital Trade at the World Economic Forum joins Trade Splaining to continue the discussion on all the things digital, including how new emerging technology is shaping the economic landscape, how governments can keep up and what it means for the rest of us.
In this episode we discuss:
- Respond to listener mail
- Potential subscription-based and privacy oriented competitors to the tech giants
- GameStop
- Bezos stepping down at Amazon
- Elon Musk and Dogecoin
- Google and Australia's new legal battle
- Data, Big Tech and Possible Regulation
- Latest in local swiss expat news (hint: ducks)
Part 2 of our interview with Richard Baldwin, author of "The Globotics Upheaval: Globalisation, Robotics and the Future of Work" and Professor of International Economics at the Graduate Institute in Geneva, Switzerland.
In this special bonus episode, we continue our discussion on how AI and globalization are reshaping the nature of trade and labor markets, how countries should prepare and what we as workers can do about it.
Richard Baldwin, author and Professor of International Economics at the Graduate Institute in Geneva, Switzerland joins Trade Splaining to discuss how AI and globalization are reshaping the nature of trade and labor markets, why COVID means this is happening much faster than we may think and what we can do about it.
In this episode we discuss:
- Kick off 2021 with the biggest news stories of the month
- Brexit
- Can trade agreements do more for workers?
- The EU and China Make a (investment) Deal
- Data, Big Tech and Possible Regulation
- How Globotics and COVID are accelerating labor and trade trends
- Latest in local swiss expat news (hint: Trees)
Matthew Wilson, Chief of Staff at the International Trade Centre in Geneva, Switzerland joins the Trade Splainers to discuss how small island states are dealing with COVID and climate change, why he's still giving the WTO a chance, why Rihanna is still the greatest....and where he learned to dance to Beyonce's Single Ladies
Matthew Wilson, Chief of Staff at the International Trade Centre in Geneva, Switzerland joins the Trade Splainers to discuss how small island states are dealing with COVID and climate change, why he's still giving the WTO a chance...and why Rihanna is still the greatest.
In this episode we discuss:
- Recapping the biggest trends of 2020, and what to look out for in 2021
- Amazon, WTO, Brexit, Fishery Subsidies and more
- Why taking care of Small Island States says alot about who we are
- What kind of solutions do we need to address these problems
- Why Prince Harry and Megan Markle are on the TradeSplainers naughty list
Umberto de Pretto, Secretary General of the IRU joins the Trade Splainers to discuss COVID-related shocks, what makes a real Canadian name, and why road transport is more important than we think.
In this episode we discuss:
- Yet another data point on how COVID is accelerating economic and business trends in the tech sector
- COVID-19 related shocks to the road transport and how the industry has responded
- What is needed in actually getting a COVID 19 vaccine to market and how supply chain actors are coping
- What kind of solutions do we need to address these problems
- What NOT to say when buying a kebab
Charles Clover of FT and Nikkei Asia joins Trade Splaining to give his first hand account of where China stands almost one year on from the COVID-19 outbreak, how it is capitalizing on economic and political opportunities both regionally and beyond - including his new piece on Vaccine Diplomacy - and what this means for the global trading system as a whole.
Co-hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Rob Skidmore are joined by Daniel Warner in this special 2020 US election 'splainer episode. They discuss the state of US politics, its role in the world and what implications the 2020 elections could, and should have on trade.
Bonus Episode of part 2 of Trade Splaining interview with Marie Owens Thomsen of Lombard Odier
Marie Owens Thomsen joins Trade Splaining to discuss the latest in the world of trade, economics and finance as well as tell us why sustainability is no longer just a buzzword.
Recapping the latest events in the trade war and Brexit as well as an insightful interview with Barbara Ramos on what COVID means for the future of trade, cities and work.
Discussing the latest developments in the US elections and global events. Jan Hoffmann of UNCATD stops by to discuss the state of maritime shipping, how COVID is changing how trade happens, and why haircuts make the best trade barometer.
On this episode:
- News Recap - 02:53
- Guest Interview (Jan Hoffmann) - 12:21
- Overheard at the UN Beach - 29:00
- This Week in Local News - 34:23
- Wrap-Up - 42:14
Premier episode of the Trade Splaining podcast. Co-hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Rob Skidmore recap 2020 and all things COVID, current events and trade. They are joined by Bernard Hoekman to discuss the state of trade post-COVID, the latest on the state of the WTO....and why Michigan is better than Wisconsin.
On this episode:
- 2020 In Review - 05:50
- Guest Interview (Bernard Hoekman) - 39:30
- Overheard at the UN Beach - 56:30
- This Week in Local News - 64:00
- Wrap-up - 69:00
A fun and entertaining look at current events, trade and the United Nations, brought to you from the perspective of two American expats and UN civil servants living in Switzerland. Hilarity ensues as they try to keep a straight face while recapping the latest in current events and the local scene in Geneva, Switzerland as well as interviews with fellow expats on the international scene and leaders in their respective fields.