The regal has landed: can Charles boost US bond?

This episode of The Intelligence from The Economist explores two major themes: the state of the Anglo-American 'special relationship' amid diplomatic tensions, and the crisis facing Japan's once-dominant automobile industry. King Charles III's first official visit to the U.S. as monarch is framed as a diplomatic mission to repair strained ties, particularly following disagreements over Iran and NATO, and the sharp rhetoric from Donald Trump. Despite Charles's limited formal power, his visit offers symbolic value in reinforcing historical and cultural bonds, especially as the U.S. and UK navigate a complex geopolitical landscape. Meanwhile, the second segment examines Japan's automotive sector, which is struggling to adapt to the global shift toward electric vehicles. Once leaders in reliability and efficiency, Japanese automakers like Honda and Nissan are now lagging behind Chinese competitors in EV innovation, hampered by slow adoption of electrification, high R&D costs, and outdated manufacturing mindsets. Toyota stands out as a rare success story through its hybrid dominance and strategic partnerships in China, but broader industry consolidation or collaboration may be necessary for survival. The episode ends on a lighter note with a personal vignette about fishing in the Hudson River, highlighting its remarkable environmental recovery despite lingering contamination concerns.