Programme

The world is undergoing dramatic changes in its economic balance. Over the last 5 years, China has overtaken the US to become the world’s largest economy (in PPP terms). China’s growing global influence in trade and technology, and transition from a global manufacturer to global innovator and entrepreneur, are being met with increasing international security concerns and protectionism. China is seeking a new balance between its growing global role and national aspirations, at a time where liquidity is tightening, growth is slowing and technology is transforming the competitive landscape. How are the US and China responding and what are the challenges and longer term outlook of this changing world order?

Rapid technological innovation is transforming industries and the global competitive landscape. Whether it’s information, communication, transport, retail, banking, energy, medical or food production, our needs are being met better, faster and in ways we never imagined. However, the realities can differ greatly to the promises that new technology brings, with decision makers increasingly being called upon to consider both the possibilities and externalities. At this session, we will have leading edge innovators share on the outlook for the areas they are revolutionising and the key challenges involved.

Given mature business cycles in key economies, limited policy space, and geopolitical and socio-political tensions, growth and investment returns will potentially be low and volatile. Financial risks are a key concern due to high corporate and non-bank leverage, weakening credit quality, and tightening liquidity. In light of these challenges and the heightened uncertainty across countries, economies and capital markets, how are investors positioning themselves for both the risks and opportunities?