Economist Ken Rogoff on the “Bar Fight” between the US and Canada
Aug 28, 2026 · 36m
Summary
This episode features Harvard economist Ken Rogoff discussing the escalating US-Canada trade war, Mark Carney’s diplomatic stance, and the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting in Jackson Hole. The hosts also explore the disruption of the diamond industry by affordable lab-grown stones and the existential questions regarding value. Finally, they critique Stanley Druckenmiller’s AI-assisted op-ed and reflect on Dolly Parton’s legacy as a savvy businesswoman.
Topics discussed
Intro, ChatGPT Work Mode ad, and welcome back
Preview: Canada trade tensions and Walmart diamond necklace
Ken Rogoff on Trump's trade rhetoric and Davos speech
Escalation of tariffs and Canada's economic vulnerability
Canada's defiant stance and risks of picking fights
Global implications: Balkanization and China's rise
Democratic policies and the future of trade strategy
Jackson Hole Fed meeting and Powell's expected speech
Comcast Business and ChatGPT Work Mode ads
Lab-grown diamonds: Technology, cost, and production
Public perception and stigma of lab-grown diamonds
The Diamond-Water Paradox and value perception
Luxury goods, Rolex, and the psychology of value
Chinese robots, AI warnings, and LPL Financial ad
Larry Bessant's op-ed and AI usage controversy
Critique of AI-written content and reader respect
Dolly Parton's legacy, business acumen, and death
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