Topic: Telex

The reaction to the WikiLeaks document release is characterized as more significant than the actual content of the leaked papers. Discussion focuses on the archaic use of the term "cables" by the State Department to describe internal electronic communications, drawing parallels to obsolete Telex technology. The hosts suggest the media is over-sensationalizing the event while ignoring other news.

The Economist reports that a small number of financial institutions still use Telex systems for high-value settlements, such as Euroclear and Boeing aircraft sales. These closed-loop systems provide a level of security for "wiring" money that modern retail banking lacks. The hosts explain the origin of the term "wire transfer" and the role of SWIFT codes in government tracking of international funds.