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21 Jul 2026
22m

Hard cedar: Lebanon seeks Trump’s help

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Economist Podcasts

Lebanon faces a critical juncture as President Joseph Aoun seeks international support amidst a severe financial crisis, ongoing conflict with Israel, and the destabilizing influence of Hezbollah. The nation’s path to recovery requires both fundamental economic reform and a strategic reduction of Hezbollah’s regional power. Meanwhile, Red Bull maintains its global dominance in the energy drink market through a unique, marketing-heavy business model that outsources production while investing heavily in extreme sports and media. Despite health concerns and potential regulatory bans for minors, the brand continues to expand. Finally, data analysis reveals that the cultural phenomenon of the "trophy wife"—defined by significant age gaps between wealthy men and their spouses—is declining, as modern marriage patterns among the elite increasingly mirror those of the general population, largely influenced by shared educational backgrounds.

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