The World in Brief from The Economist The World in Brief from The Economist

A lousy week for tech stocks; Trump’s press secretary is out, and more

Oct 17, 2026 · 3m

Summary

This episode covers the legal scrutiny of Pam Bondi's deputy, the tech sector's slide amid AI debt concerns, and European support for Zelensky as he criticizes US-Russia energy deals. It also reports on surging oil prices driven by Ukrainian strikes and Middle East tensions, West Bank settler violence, and Bulgaria's NATO request after drone attacks. Additionally, the segment highlights Tesla's "flying" Roadster demo and defines the word "apogones."

Topics discussed

Sponsorship and introduction Trump fires press secretary Katie Zachariah Tech stocks and AI debt concerns Zelensky at Brussels summit and Trump's remarks Oil prices and Middle East escalation Settler attacks in the West Bank Bulgaria requests NATO help after drone attacks Tesla unveils new Roadster flying car Word of the Week: Apogones Citizens Bank sponsorship Grainger sponsorship Closing and subscription offer
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