In this episode, we dive into the harrowing impact of the opioid epidemic in North America, recounting firsthand observations of addiction's toll in cities like Ottawa, Quebec, and Vancouver. How did a nation like Canada, with its extensive welfare and health systems, become engulfed in such a crisis? We explore the roots of the crisis, attributing it to the aggressive marketing and misinformation by pharmaceutical companies like Purdue Pharma, driven by unchecked greed and profit motives. Poverty and homelessness exacerbate addiction, creating a sobering reflection on the complex interplay of corporate malfeasance, regulatory failures, and social vulnerabilities that fuel this devastating epidemic. Is Ireland next in line for an opioid epidemic? Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.

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2024:40 The Opium Wars

The aim of this weekly podcast is to make economics easy, uncomplicated and accessible. With the world at a political, technological and financial tipping point, economics has never been so important to all of us and yet, it’s made inaccessible and complicated by so many. I’ve always thought what is complicated is rarely important and what is important is rarely complicated.
That will be our motto.
Every week we are going to tease out some big economic or political issue facing us, not just here in Ireland but in Europe and further afield. Globalisation has brought us all together. We all face similar challenges whether you live in Dublin, London, Minnesota or Milan.
If you would like to enjoy all of our content ad-free and have early access to episodes, subscribe to DMCW+ on Apple Podcast.
If you would like to support the show, please consider becoming a patron at www.patreon.com/DavidMcWilliams. 
Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.

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News & Politics

This week, we're diving deep into the rollercoaster world of global financial markets. From the wild highs of cannabis stocks crashing down to earth to the ECB's first interest rate cut in five years, we're unpacking it all. Ever wondered why 2% inflation became the magic number for central banks? Spoiler: it’s as arbitrary as it sounds. Joining us to make sense of the chaos is David Tilson, Head of Capital Markets for Cantor Fitzgerald, who’ll give us the lowdown on everything from US job growth and the curious case of immaculate disinflation to the surprising rise of India over China. Whether you're baffled by bonds or curious about why Germany’s economy is having an identity crisis, this episode is packed with insights. So, is it time to rethink everything we thought we knew about money? Tune in and find out! Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.

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Decoding Global Markets with Dave Tilson

During the European recent elections, you might have heard lots of people defining Ireland as a "neoliberal" country, governed by the ideology of neoliberalism. Neoliberalism is a political and economic philosophy which emphasises free markets, deregulation, and reducing the role of the state. This episode dives into the myth that Ireland is a neoliberal state, a story often perpetuated but rarely challenged. By examining Ireland’s progressive tax system and vast social welfare network, we reveal a very different narrative. If Ireland isn't neoliberal, why does this myth persist, and what does it say about our understanding of politics and economics? Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.

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Neoliberalism, my arse!

This week, we're diving into the fascinating world of AI economics with the brilliant Professor Eli Noam from Columbia Business School. This episode is a special treat as we're kicking off a series of AI events at the Dalkey Book Festival next week. We're talking about how artificial intelligence is shaking up industries, transforming job markets, and reshaping the entire economy. There's a lot of fear out there about AI taking over jobs and the ethical headaches it brings, but it's not all doom and gloom. We'll explore how smart policies and clever strategies can turn AI into a force for good, sparking new opportunities and driving economic growth. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of AI and what it means for all of us. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.

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Tomorrows World: Living With AI

This week, while navigating a mid-life crisis and an intensive French course in the south of France, we've decided to reflect on the importance of Franco-German relations and what they mean for the future of Europe and the euro. We delve deep into how centuries of rivalry and reconciliation between France and Germany have shaped the continent, leading to the creation of the European Union. From the devastating conflicts of the World Wars to the visionary treaties that established economic and political integration, we explore the pivotal moments that have defined this partnership. So tune in as we examine the current state and future prospects of the euro, discussing its strengths, challenges, and the role it plays in maintaining European stability. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.

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Enemies to Lovers: The Conversation We Really Should Be Having Ahead of The European Elections

Is Rishi Sunak's announcement of a snap UK election the answer or a political gamble? Joining us to unpack this is Robert Shrimsley of the Financial Times. Can the Tories pull this one out of the bag? And, away from the political drama, on the economic side, we examine the UK's persistent productivity issues, its triple inequalities and the lack of novel macro-economic or strategic model from the major parties. This election, the absence of one old friend is conspicuous - Brexit, no on wants to talk about it. The UK is a house divided, could this election offer the solutions the UK desperately needs, or will it deepen the existing fractures and uncertainties?  Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.

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2024:40 The Opium Wars

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