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  1. Economist Podcasts
  2. What in the world: predictions for 2026
What in the world: predictions for 2026

What in the world: predictions for 2026

Economist Podcasts · Jan 1, 2026

The Economist reviews its 2025 hits & misses, predicts 2026 trends in tech and geopolitics, and celebrates 20 years of podcasting.

Humanoid Robot Companies Sell Hardware at a Loss to Gather Valuable Training Data

Firms are deploying consumer robots not for immediate profit but as a data acquisition strategy. By selling hardware below cost, they collect vast amounts of real-world video and interaction data, which is the true asset used to train more advanced and capable AI models for future applications.

What in the world: predictions for 2026 thumbnail

What in the world: predictions for 2026

Economist Podcasts·3 months ago

Inaccurate Annual Forecasts May Represent "Justice Delayed," Not Fundamental Misjudgment

When predicting major economic shifts like a bond market crisis or an AI stock correction, being wrong in a specific year doesn't invalidate the thesis. The underlying pressures may still exist, with the predicted event simply postponed. This reframes forecast misses as primarily errors in timing rather than analysis.

What in the world: predictions for 2026 thumbnail

What in the world: predictions for 2026

Economist Podcasts·3 months ago

Next-Gen Weight-Loss Drugs Will Use Pills and Lower Costs To Drive Global Access

The GLP-1 drug revolution is moving beyond weekly injections for wealthy markets. Upcoming pill-form versions will eliminate the need for refrigerated supply chains, opening up distribution in developing countries. Combined with expiring patents, this focus on form factor and cost will enable mass global adoption.

What in the world: predictions for 2026 thumbnail

What in the world: predictions for 2026

Economist Podcasts·3 months ago

China Gains Global Soft Power as US Political Turmoil Erodes America's Image

While the US diminishes its global standing through internal political chaos and attacks on institutions like science and universities, China is capitalizing on the void. The rise of globally recognized Chinese consumer brands like TikTok and BYD helps position China as a more stable and reliable international partner.

What in the world: predictions for 2026 thumbnail

What in the world: predictions for 2026

Economist Podcasts·3 months ago

Fracking's Horizontal Drilling Technology Is Unlocking Geothermal Energy's Potential

The ability to drill sideways underground, a technique perfected by the fossil fuel industry, is being repurposed to make geothermal energy more powerful. This technology transfer allows for greater energy extraction from hot rocks, making geothermal a more viable clean energy source to meet demand from data centers.

What in the world: predictions for 2026 thumbnail

What in the world: predictions for 2026

Economist Podcasts·3 months ago