The Geopolitics of Business

NATO, Private Capital & Innovation: Professor Dame Fiona Murray  Hosted by Sam Gyimah  In this episode of the Geopolitics of Business, Professor Dame Fiona Murray, discusses how technology and innovation can drive economic and defence strategies. As the chair of the NATO Innovation Fund, she emphasises building strong innovation ecosystems among NATO allies to maintain competitiveness. Fiona also reflects on her academic journey from Oxford University to her current roles as Associate Dean of Innovation and the William Porter Professor of Entrepreneurship at the MIT. She highlights the importance of universities in powering economies and solving real-world problems. She also discusses with Sam the role of venture capital in defence, the importance of sovereignty in supply chains, and the evolving skills that future entrepreneurs will need to navigate geopolitical complexities.  Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for TGOB Media Ltd in partnership with SG& Capital Partners Ltd. Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 

In this episode of the Geopolitics of Business, Sam sits down with Dr Adam S. Posen, President of the Peterson Institute for International Economics and one of the world’s leading macroeconomists, for a sweeping conversation about the shifting global economic order and what it means for businesses, governments and investors. Adam shares his views about the real-world consequences of Donald Trump’s tariff shock, why US inflation and interest rates are likely to remain structurally higher, and how a politicised Federal Reserve threatens financial stability. He also unpacks the decentring of the US dollar, the future of AI investment, and what slowing Chinese growth really means for the global economy. Adam offers candid, direct advice for CEOs navigating a more volatile, politicised, and fragmented economic landscape.  Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for TGOB Media Ltd in partnership with SG& Capital Partners Ltd. Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&.  

In this episode of the Geopolitics of Business, Sam sits down with Sir Anthony Seldon, one of the UK’s pre-eminent historians and political biographers to talk about power and leadership and what history can tell us about the future for the current Labour administration. Sam and Sir Anthony discuss the historical and current challenges facing the UK, the rise of populism and the potential impact of Nigel Farage and Reform. He emphasises the importance of a clear vision, competence, and ethical core in the leadership, touching on Brexit, the future of UK's relationship with the EU, and the shifting dynamics in political and business environments. And as a former head and Founding Director of Wellington College Education, Sam also hears Sir Anthony’s views on our schools, universities and the impact of AI on teaching young people.  Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners  Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for TGOB Media Ltd in partnership with SG& Capital Partners Ltd.    Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com.   You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter.  Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed.  The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&.  

In this episode of The Geopolitics of Business, Sam Gyimah sits down with Lord Darroch, former UK Ambassador to Washington and former National Security Adviser, for an unflinching conversation on diplomacy, power and Britain’s place in a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape. They discuss the unprecedented speed and unpredictability of Trump 2.0, how influence really works inside today’s Washington, and what the UK must do to protect its strategic and economic interests in a world defined by tariff wars, fragmentation and volatile alliances. As Lord Darroch reflects on more than forty years at the sharp end of global decision-making, he shares candid insights into how governments, businesses and leaders can navigate the turbulence ahead — from Ukraine, Russia and China to shifting US alliances and the risks reshaping global markets. Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for TGOB Media Ltd in partnership with SG& Capital Partners Ltd.   Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email: info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 

From Downing Street to Silicon Valley: Nick Clegg on Politics, Tech, and the Digital Future.In this special episode of The Geopolitics of Business, Sam Gyimah sits down with Nick Clegg, former UK Deputy Prime Minister and Meta’s former President of Global Affairs, for a wide-ranging conversation on the intersection of politics, technology, and power.   They discuss the surprising stability of the UK coalition government, the challenges of decision-making in both politics and tech, and the geopolitical consequences of AI and a fragmenting internet. As he launches his new book How to Save the Internet, Nick shares timely insights on how platforms and governments can respond to today’s escalating tech conflicts and political divides.  Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners  Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com.  You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter.  Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed.  The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&.  

This week, Sam unpacks the key themes of Season 2 with Gideon Rachman, Chief Foreign Affairs Commentator at the Financial Times.From the unpredictability of Trump-era policies to the evolving dynamics within Europe and China’s strategic economic manoeuvres, Gideon offers a sharp, nuanced analysis of today’s geopolitical landscape.The conversation delves into the challenges for centrists in an era marked by inequality, deglobalisation, and militarisation—highlighting what these trends mean for leaders, investors, and citizens alike and also covers China's economic strategy and the heightened geopolitical tensions leading to increased militarisation around the world.Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& co-producer: Nicky Black Music composed by: Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business NewsletterDisclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 

In this week’s episode, Sam Gyimah sits down with billionaire entrepreneur Manfredi Lefebvre D’Ovidio—a seasoned leader who has reshaped the cruise and luxury travel industries over five decades. From his early days learning the ropes alongside his influential father, to his bold, industry-redefining moves in acquiring cruise lines and expanding into diverse investments, Manfredi shares his first‐hand insights on overcoming geopolitical turbulence, embracing change, and seizing opportunities with speed and skill. The conversation spans the challenges posed by wars, pandemics, and shifting global trends, along with his thoughts on the future of business innovation and competitiveness. Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer: Nicky Black Music composed by: Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&.  00:00 – Early Journey & Family Legacy Manfredi reflects on starting his career at 19, following in the footsteps of his innovative father, and outlines a 220-year family history that stretches back from Naples in the post-Napoleonic era. 03:00 – Building a Maritime Empire Delve into the evolution from operating family shipping businesses to pioneering the cruise industry—from early ventures in ferry transport and maritime navigation, to the bold acquisition and turnaround of cruise lines. 06:00 – Geopolitical and Economic Crosscurrents Discussion on how wars, supply chain disruptions, and the pandemic have shaped global travel. 09:00 – The Power of Speed & Skill Discover how manmade advantages—nimble decision-making backed by deep industry knowledge and well-organised capital—allowed Manfredi to seize opportunities that others overlooked, even in times of rapid change. 11:00 – Global Trends & Future Disruptions Manfredi outlines the challenges faced by regions like Europe due to high energy costs and rigid labour markets, while looking ahead to emerging technologies.13:00 – Reflections & Optimism Concluding reflections on adaptability, resilience, and the relentless pace of change in global business.  

In this week’s episode, Sam joins Lord Chris Patten at his London home for a discussion about the state of global democracy. Known as one of the big beasts of British politics, Chris has held senior roles in the cabinet, the EU and most notably, as the last governor of Hong Kong. He’s also been chancellor of Oxford University. The conversation focuses on the challenges of sustaining democracy, the rise of populism, the importance of truth, free speech and checks and balances.  Chris reflects on his personal experiences in negotiations with China, Russia, Iran and the EU. Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners  Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com.   You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter.  Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed.  The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&.  00:00 The Challenges of Sustaining Democracy 02:58 The Rise of Populism and Economic Failures 03:25 Political Truths and Voter Expectations 06:08 International Relations and Diplomacy 06:46 Iran's Nuclear Ambitions and Diplomacy 10:15 Hong Kong and China's Ambitions 24:11 Higher Education in the Crosshairs of Geopolitics 25:23 The Importance of Free Speech in Universities 30:04 Mass Higher Education and Its Challenges 31:51 Developing Human Capital in the Age of AI 33:41 Leadership and Choosing Advisers 35:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   

This week, Sam is taking a deep dive into global economics with Baroness Dambisa Moyo. From the importance of economic growth and the structural issues affecting it, to deglobalisation, populism and technology, the esteemed economist and author gives her appraisal of what is happening around the world and what comes next. Baroness Moyo and Sam also discuss how governments and businesses need to adapt to the shifting geopolitical landscape, what the opportunities are for investors and what the cuts to aid budgets could mean for Africa. Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners  Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com.  You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter.  Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed.  The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&.   00:00 Introduction to Geopolitics and Economics 02:08 The Importance of Economic Growth 02:55 Challenges Facing Major Economies 04:29 The Role of Capital, Labour, and Productivity 08:31 Impact of Globalisation and Populism and Trump 12:32 Future of Global Economic Order 14:51 Technological Disruption and Job Market 16:34 Investor Strategies in a Changing World 24:42 Short-Term Tactical Changes and Global Capital Flows 26:03 Opportunities in Different Regions 28:15 The Future of the US Dollar and Fiat Currencies 34:17 China's Economic and Political Landscape 39:05 The UK's Role in the Global Economy 41:34 Challenges for Emerging Markets and Development Finance 45:48 The Interplay Between Politics and Economics 48:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts