Saudi’s LIV golf exit is just the start
Summary
This episode examines how Saudi Arabia’s $5 billion investment in Liv Golf failed to achieve its goals of soft power and economic diversification. Hosts Waylon Wong and Darian Woods discuss how geopolitical shifts, including the Iran war, and domestic economic pressures led the Saudis to abandon the venture. The show explores the league’s reliance on Trump-owned venues and star players, concluding that such flashy cultural projects are being replaced by more practical investments in AI and manufacturing.
Topics discussed
Intro: Saudi Arabia's failed diversification projects
Sponsors: Dataiku, Mint Mobile, Better Health
Vision 2030 and the diplomatic allure of golf
PGA monopoly and the Khashoggi assassination context
Launch of Live Golf and partnership with Trump
Live Golf's lack of fans and funding withdrawal
Geopolitics: Iran war and shifting priorities
New focus on domestic economy and Vision 2040
Credits and NPR promotions
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