Data Talks
Data Talks is a conversation series released every two weeks that proves data isn’t just for analysts, it’s the common language behind sporting triumphs, market breakthroughs, and social progress. Economist and storyteller Wolfgang Fengler sits down with world-class athletes, leading economists, founders, policymakers, and creative thinkers to unpack the numbers shaping their fields. Together, they translate charts into clear takeaways, challenge assumptions with evidence, and show how good data can turn bold ideas into practical action.
Data Talks
The magic number 17
In this special edition of Data Talks, Wolfgang Fengler sits down with his long-time friend and World Data Lab co-founder, Homi Kharas. Homi reflects on his 26 years at the World Bank, his role in shaping the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and the origins of the “data revolution.” Together, Wolfgang and Homi revisit the dinner-table conversations that sparked the creation of World Data Lab, explore why making everyone count matters, and unpack Homi’s influential research on the global middle class. Looking ahead, they discuss the megatrends of demography and technology, and how AI could transform development worldwide.
🔗 Learn more at worlddatalab.com
Data Talks is produced by World Data Lab, bringing global data to life through insights, conversations, and stories that matter.
