Renowned global futurist Dr. Parag Khanna spoke to students about re-mapping the global economy during a convocation event Wednesday in Massey Boardroom. Belmont’s Center for International Business hosted the speaker who provided an analysis of the new “geopolitical marketplace” which refers to the dynamic among superpowers to compete for the influence of the “second world.”
“The U.S. is no longer the center of the commerce universe. It is a world of key players,” Khanna said.
These key players include Latin America, Asia and Africa. Khanna explained that America and the rest of the world have started to recognize other markets. He then provided an analysis of emerging market political risk and the maneuverings of Europe, China, India and Russia to capture the loyalty of new power centers.
Khanna discussed which regions and markets will capture the commanding heights and which will stagnate under competitive pressures. He provided tailored geostrategic guidance for companies to enhance their position in key markets and achieve long-term growth. He explained that policymakers and investors must revise their mental maps of how the world economy works as patterns of growth, trade and investment rapidly shift.
Khanna is a leading global strategist, world traveler and best-selling author. He is also a Ted Global speaker and appears regularly on CNN, BBC, Al Jazeera, PBS and NPR. Khanna was named one of Esquire’s “75 Most Influential People of the 21st Century” and was featured in Wired Magazine’s “Smart List.”
The mission of the Center for International Business is to create international trade and business awareness, knowledge and opportunities for each of its stakeholders through excellent teaching, research and service. The CIB hosts a number of lectures and cultural events in the form of an International Business Convocation Series. Each semester leaders from diverse international business fields and cultural organizations share their experiences and advice with students and the community at large.
