The hottest International Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

Top Links 765 Military R&D in America. Nigeria's investment plans. The "imperial meridian" and Nelson on the mosquito coast.

Chartbook • 515 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Investment Policy History International
  1. The U.S. military invests heavily in research and development to stay advanced in technology and defense. This helps keep the country safe and operates effectively.
  2. Nigeria has exciting plans for investment that could impact its economy and future growth. It's important to watch how these investments develop.
  3. The history of the U.S. military-industrial complex shows how it was reduced in the 1990s, which is interesting for understanding current military funding and operations.

Behind the Numbers: A Deep Dive into 2025's Top International NBA Prospects (Part 1)

Chad Ford's NBA Big Board • 19 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Scouting International Prospects Analytics
  1. Scouting international NBA prospects is tough because they often play less and face varying competition, making it hard to assess their true potential.
  2. Some young players, like Nolan Traore, show great promise but have mixed stats, indicating areas where they need to improve.
  3. The article highlights top players from Europe now, with plans to cover talents from Australia and China later, suggesting a strong international class for the next NBA draft.

Top Links 749 Tanning and the tariffs. How small boats are getting bigger. Liverpool and the unmaking of Britain.

Chartbook • 629 implied HN points • 25 May 25
💼 Business Trade Economics Industry International Supply Chain
  1. The leather industry in the US is facing challenges due to tariffs, which can affect the prices of products made from leather.
  2. Small boats are getting bigger, which might change how we think about fishing and travel at sea.
  3. The history of Liverpool is highlighted as a key part of understanding the changes in Britain.

Top Links 753 Front-running European exports. The American transfer state. Troll farm hierarchy & the economics of motor-racing.

Chartbook • 472 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Economics Governance Society International
  1. European exports are being closely watched, possibly for trends or economic implications. It's important to stay updated on how they impact global trade.
  2. The idea of an American transfer state likely refers to the financial support systems in place within the U.S. Understanding this can help in grasping economic dynamics.
  3. There's a mention of troll farms and their organizational structure, highlighting the complexities of online information and influence. This can affect how we view digital communication.
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Western leftists have lost the plot

Noahpinion • 67295 implied HN points • 10 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International Ideology Leaders Conflict
  1. Western leftists have shown support for violent actions that are considered inhumane, such as massacres.
  2. The Western leftist movement's support for violent actions has led to a lack of moral consistency and compassion.
  3. The Palestinian cause has become central to the Western leftist movement, but recent events have caused division and moral disgust.

Universal Civilisation or Cultural Decadence?

Glenn’s Substack • 559 implied HN points • 27 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture International Soft Power Liberalism Cultural critique
  1. Culture plays a big role in international politics, and France has a strong history of embracing cosmopolitanism.
  2. The opening ceremony of the Olympics may be seen as a show of tolerance, but it also has contradictions regarding accepting criticism.
  3. Liberal societies often struggle with tolerance for different opinions, especially about issues like immigration and gender, which can create cultural pressure to conform.

The Smoking Glove

Arkmedic's blog • 4363 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Politics Science International
  1. The SARS-Cov-2 virus was likely lab-made and created using a specific splicing enzyme.
  2. Lab techniques like restriction endonucleases are used to create infectious viruses from DNA clones.
  3. Evidence suggests that EcoHealth Alliance ordered a specific enzyme needed to splice the COVID virus, supporting claims of a lab origin.

Kemi Badenoch: ‘I Don’t Think DOGE Is Radical Enough’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1126 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy International Culture
  1. Kemi Badenoch believes that the weakness in values is a bigger threat than external dangers, like Russia or China. She thinks it's important to stand firm on core beliefs rather than being overly tolerant of harmful ideas.
  2. She supports the idea that Europe needs to toughen up against things that could undermine its security, as highlighted by J.D. Vance's speech at a recent conference.
  3. Badenoch emphasizes that it's not liberal values themselves that are the issue but the extreme focus on tolerance that could lead to weakening societal foundations.

🛰 The story of the US Space Force: A Quick Q&A with … defense policy analyst Todd Harrison

Faster, Please! • 548 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Space Military Policy International
  1. The US Space Force is essential because the number of satellites in space is rapidly increasing, and protecting them is crucial for both national security and economic reasons.
  2. The Space Force not only tracks and defends military satellites but also faces various forms of attacks, especially cyber threats, requiring strategies to counter these non-kinetic challenges.
  3. Future roles of the Space Force may include protecting commercial space interests, similar to how the Navy protects maritime commerce, as space becomes increasingly important for global trade and security.

Toohey’s Hot Start and Traore’s Champions League Debut Highlight Top International Prospect Performances

Chad Ford's NBA Big Board • 59 implied HN points • 03 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball International Prospects Performance
  1. Nolan Traore had an impressive debut in the Champions League, showing his talent despite earlier struggles. His performance helped his team win a big game.
  2. Alex Toohey is off to a strong start in Australia, making a name for himself early in the season. His skills are catching the attention of scouts.
  3. Ben Saraf and Noa Essengue continue to excel in Germany, proving they are top prospects. Their consistent play is making them standout players in their league.

Special Report: Emergency Situation as Prigozhin Goes Nuclear Option

Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge • 7713 implied HN points • 24 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics International Conflict Coup Espionage Military
  1. Important events are unfolding related to Prigozhin initiating a coup attempt.
  2. The situation has been developing for a while, potentially due to Prigozhin refusing to sign a contract with the Russian MOD.
  3. There are theories ranging from Prigozhin collaborating with enemies to orchestrating an internal coup within the Russian military.

Fly-fishing in a business suit

Read Max • 711 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Music Fashion International
  1. This week features a mix of cool recommendations, including a thrilling international book and a stylish 1990s movie.
  2. There's interesting reading on sports conspiracy theories and financing in soccer, plus a new eurodance-pop album that's really enjoyable.
  3. The writer loves getting suggestions from readers for books or movies they might like, and they offer a free trial for new subscribers.

An Interview With Oscar About College in Ireland

Design Mom • 1434 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🚌 Education College International Languages Courses
  1. Oscar chose to study in Ireland to do his coursework in English and be closer to his family in the EU.
  2. In his university in Ireland, students have to pick specific Courses when applying instead of declaring a major later on.
  3. American universities start with general education classes, while in Oscar's university, students apply directly to their preferred Course from a list.

THE SHOW NOTES: Houthi Attacks, Biden’s EPA Failure, & The Coldest NFL Game Ever?

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1238 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International Climate & Environment Health Politics News Business
  1. The coldest NFL game in history could be the Dolphins at Chiefs playoff game.
  2. The US and its allies conducted a significant attack on Yemen's Houthi rebels after they ignored demands to cease attacks on merchant ships.
  3. Remote workers are being promoted less frequently than office workers and also receive less mentorship.

Top Links 629 The Credit Suisse Nazi cover-up. Global bond tremors. The Atlas of drowned towns & Eric Dolphy's last date.

Chartbook • 357 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
📰 News Current Events International Finance Politics
  1. Credit Suisse was involved in a Nazi cover-up, suggesting significant issues with accountability in major financial institutions.
  2. Global bond markets are experiencing turbulence, which may affect investors and the economy overall.
  3. Eric Dolphy's last performance and the concept of towns that have been drowned offer cultural and historical insights into forgotten places and stories.

Economics Links, 2/15/2025

In My Tribe • 243 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
💰 Finance Economics Trade Health Policy Substack International
  1. The European Union may have created a big, slow government that doesn't serve its people well. Some believe smaller countries manage their affairs better.
  2. Importing goods doesn't always harm jobs; a trade deficit can actually mean a strong economy. More spending and demand can lead to more jobs, not fewer.
  3. Becoming successful on platforms like Substack is tough. It often takes a large existing following or writing about popular subjects to grow your audience.

Top Links 589 How US arrivistes do it better. Exceptionalism weighed. Sino-Saudi ties. The global cotton boom and slavery in Egypt.

Chartbook • 457 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics International Economics Social Issues History
  1. US exceptionalism can be seen in how new arrivals succeed differently compared to other countries. It shows a unique approach to opportunity and wealth.
  2. Understanding Sino-Saudi relationships is important for seeing how global politics are formed today. These connections affect trade and influence between nations.
  3. The global cotton industry has a dark history tied to slavery, especially in Egypt. This highlights ongoing issues of human rights in worldwide supply chains.

World roundup: January 10 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 766 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Climate International
  1. 2023 was the hottest year on record with global temperatures reaching 1.48 degrees Celsius higher than in the 19th century.
  2. There is concern whether the increasing temperatures are a one-time spike or the new normal.
  3. Humanity is close to breaching the 1.5 degrees Celsius warming threshold set in the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement.

Three Uncomfortable Truths About Bukele's Crackdown On Gangs

CrashOut by Ioan Grillo • 1218 implied HN points • 29 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics International Human Rights Security Public Opinion Law enforcement
  1. The crackdown on gangs in El Salvador led by President Bukele has been effective in reducing crime rates significantly.
  2. Despite criticism, Bukele's offensive is popular among the people of El Salvador due to the tangible benefits seen from the eradication of gang influence.
  3. The methods used in the crackdown, while successful, have been brutal, leading to concerns about human rights violations and the high number of individuals incarcerated.

World roundup: January 24 2024

Foreign Exchanges • 530 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics International Middle East
  1. Groundwater depletion is accelerating in many parts of the world, especially in dry regions with extensive cropland.
  2. Some aquifers have shown a decline in depletion where governments have improved water management.
  3. Negotiations around the ceasefire plan for Israel-Palestine are progressing, with disagreements on the duration and terms of the ceasefire.

Illumina Sanctions

ASeq Newsletter • 7 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
💼 Business Trade Finance Economics International Technology
  1. Illumina might face sanctions in China due to trade tensions. This situation is unusual for a company focused on genetic technology.
  2. Their revenue in China was only 7% of their total, which is about $75 million. It's important to note that this revenue has been decreasing since 2022.
  3. Even with these potential sanctions, the overall impact on Illumina is expected to be minor. Their business in China isn't as significant as it may seem.

Seven Glass Beads

Outlandish Claims • 199 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
📚 Literature Fiction Philosophy Science History International
  1. Herman Hesse's novel 'The Glass Bead Game' explores a world where different fields merge through a game played with glass beads, but ends in a tragic twist when the protagonist tries to share his wisdom and fails.
  2. The stories of trinitite, MENACE (Matchbox Educable Naughts And Crosses Engine), and the Valdice Monastery show how abstract ideas like nuclear weapons, early AI models, and forced labor intertwined with concrete consequences, shaping the 20th-century mindset on science and philosophy.
  3. The shift in mindset between Hermann Hesse's and Neal Stephenson's work reflects the evolution of the perception of abstract and concrete ideas over the 20th century, influenced by events like the Cold War, science advancements, and societal changes.

Top Links 554 Defending the Fed. Betting on investment. China in Peru & Pakistan's counterinsurgency campaign.

Chartbook • 329 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
💰 Finance Investment Economics Policy International Analysis
  1. The Federal Reserve plays a crucial role in managing the economy, and there are discussions about its actions and decisions. Understanding how the Fed works can help people make sense of economic changes.
  2. Investing is a key topic, indicating that people are looking for ways to grow their money even in uncertain times. Betting on good investments can lead to financial gain in the future.
  3. China's involvement in countries like Peru shows its global influence. Additionally, Pakistan's counterinsurgency efforts highlight ongoing challenges in maintaining security and stability.

Popes are good for business

Klement on Investing • 2 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
💼 Business Trade Economics International Cultural impact Investment
  1. Pope John Paul II traveled to many countries, visiting 129 in total, which is more than all the previous popes combined. His trips brought attention to smaller and developing nations.
  2. Visits from the pope seem to boost trade for the countries he visits. This is especially true for poorer nations, which can get international focus during his trips.
  3. Countries with a large Catholic population see an even bigger increase in trade after a papal visit. The pope acts like a powerful trade ambassador when he travels.

Vượng In Control

Vietnam Weekly • 353 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
💼 Business Automotive Finance International
  1. Vietnamese carmaker VinFast is expanding to India and other countries.
  2. The subscription price for Vietnam Weekly is increasing from $5/month to $8/month.
  3. VinFast has made significant announcements, including a leadership transition, plans for India, CES presentation, and facing challenges with bad press.

Iran's Jewish Population Belies Claims Of Tehran's Genocidal Intent

Stark Realities with Brian McGlinchey • 785 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International Diplomacy Geopolitics Government Foreign Relations
  1. Iran has a significant Jewish population that contradicts claims of genocidal intentions against Jews by the Tehran government.
  2. Iranian Jews enjoy freedom to practice their faith and live peacefully, even though they face limitations in certain aspects of society.
  3. The Iranian government's rhetoric often involves strong language against Israel as a political entity, but it does not necessarily translate to genocidal threats towards Jewish people.

Reaching for the Stars

Mets Fix • 255 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🎾 Sports Baseball International Players
  1. The Mets signed Dominican and Venezuelan prospects while Starling Marte stands out in winter ball.
  2. The Mets had a Dominican-themed week, celebrating their Academy's graduation ceremony.
  3. Read more by subscribing to Mets Fix for a 7-day free trial.

What's Finnish for Catholic?

The Pillar • 216 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Catholicism International Community Church
  1. The city of Helsinki was covered in snow, which was a new experience for someone from a hot city. Different nationalities and languages come together at St. Henry's Cathedral for Mass, creating a diverse and international parish community.
  2. Despite its small size, St. Henry's Cathedral in Helsinki hosts Masses in 11 languages, catering to a wide range of immigrant communities. The cathedral itself has historical significance and plays a central role in the local Catholic community.
  3. The Catholic Church in Finland is growing, especially with an increase in conversions during and after the pandemic. The church provides a supportive environment for diverse communities, with a focus on family and fostering a strong faith community.

Back to Our Targets

The Transcript • 359 implied HN points • 16 Oct 23
💰 Finance Macro Geopolitical Tensions International
  1. Federal Reserve officials are pleased with recent inflation data and may not raise rates again soon.
  2. The consumer seems strong, especially affluent consumers, but there are concerns about lower FICO consumers.
  3. Geopolitical tensions, like the conflict in Ukraine, could have significant impacts on energy and food markets.

Open Thread #34 - This One's On You

Fisted by Foucault • 88 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International Public Policy Elections Social Issues
  1. People are making predictions about major world events for 2025, like the situation in Ukraine and the conflict in Syria. It's interesting to hear different opinions on what's coming up.
  2. There's also a focus on US politics and issues like immigration and the influence of 'wokeness.' These topics can shape the political landscape significantly.
  3. In personal news, people are reflecting on their New Year's resolutions and what entertainment they're looking forward to. It shows how individuals set goals and enjoy life as the new year begins.

Leaked German plot to attack Russia spoils Nuland's 'surprise'

Aaron Mate • 254 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics International
  1. Victoria Nuland promised surprises for Russia on the battlefield, both nice and nasty, but her plans were spoiled by leaked German plot.
  2. Western proxy warriors received the surprise first before Nuland could execute her strategy.
  3. The embarrassing leaks from Germany led to Nuland's resignation and disrupted the unfolding events in the Ukrainian battlefield.

($) Why is China Investigating Nvidia: Blackwell

Interconnected • 77 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Regulation Market International Economics
  1. China's government is investigating Nvidia, which is unusual because they haven't gone after a foreign company like this before. This shows a shift in how they are handling international businesses.
  2. The timing of the investigation is interesting since it came shortly after Nvidia's CEO received an honorary degree and had meetings with Chinese officials. It may not be all negative for Nvidia.
  3. Despite the investigation, Nvidia plans to increase its workforce in China, focusing on research and development. This suggests they want to continue growing their presence there.

Stock market; RMB; Xi and culture; US-China meetings; Messi mess in Hong Kong

Sinocism • 117 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International Finance
  1. Stock market had a good Tuesday with significant market movements and policy updates from China's regulators.
  2. Central Huijin is buying ETFs and new policies aim to restrict short-selling and margin lending.
  3. Regulators are planning to update leadership on market conditions and policy initiatives, sparking optimism for market rescue efforts.