Risks Business Leaders Fear Most : Geopolitical Risks 2024

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2024: Navigating the Political Storm – A Business Leader’s Guide to Risk Management

As we gaze into the crystal ball of 2024, the political landscape shimmers with both opportunity and peril. For business leaders, navigating this terrain requires not just a keen eye for the market, but an astute understanding of the political forces that can shape – or shatter – their best-laid plans. Let’s look at political risk insights and risk management strategies needed to mitigate the biggest political risks of the year ahead.

The Looming Giants: Four Major Political Risks of 2024

  1. The US Presidential Election: Buckle up, folks, it’s a wild ride. With the incumbent facing a resurgent opposition and a potential third-party candidate throwing a wrench in the gears, the 2024 US election promises to be a nail-biter. The volatility will spill over into global markets, impacting trade, investment, and even travel.

Quote: “Politics are almost as exciting as war, and quite as unpredictable.” – Winston Churchill

  1. Geopolitical Tensions: The simmering tensions between major powers, fuelled by ideological clashes and resource competition, threaten to boil over in 2024. From the South China Sea to the Ukraine conflict, businesses with footprints in these volatile regions must prepare for disruptions and potential sanctions.

Quote: “In times of conflict, the law falls silent.” – Marcus Tullius Cicero

  1. The Rise of Populism: The siren song of populism continues to enchant disillusioned voters, potentially ushering in leaders with unpredictable agendas and protectionist policies. Businesses reliant on open markets and global supply chains must adapt to navigate these shifting sands.

Quote: “A nation cannot exist half slave and half free.” – Abraham Lincoln

  1. Climate Change and Social Unrest: As the existential threat of climate change intensifies, so too does the potential for social unrest and political instability. Businesses operating in vulnerable regions must factor in the possibility of protests, civil disobedience, and even government clampdowns.

Quote: “The Earth has provided for life for billions of years… it will do so for billions more without us.” – Carl Sagan

Risk Management Toolbox: Strategies for Weathering the Storm

While the future is inherently uncertain, proactive risk management can turn challenges into opportunities. Here are some key strategies to consider:

  1. Scenario Planning: Develop multiple scenarios based on different political outcomes, allowing you to adapt and pivot quickly. Think of it as playing chess ahead of time, considering all your opponent’s possible moves.

  2. Diversification: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Spread your investments and operations across diverse regions and markets, diluting your exposure to any single political risk.

  3. Lobbying and Engagement: Build relationships with policymakers and key stakeholders. Proactive engagement can ensure your voice is heard and your interests are considered as policies are formulated.

  4. Crisis Communication: Have a clear communication plan in place for navigating potential crises. Transparency and timely updates can mitigate reputational damage and build trust with stakeholders.

  5. Seek Expert Guidance: Don’t go it alone. Leverage the expertise of political risk consultants who can provide tailored insights and strategies for navigating complex political landscapes.

Remember, the key to successful risk management is not predicting the future, but being prepared for whatever it throws your way. By understanding the biggest political risks of 2024 and implementing these proactive strategies, you can turn uncertainty into a competitive advantage and steer your business toward continued success. And as Sun Tzu wisely advised, “Know the enemy and know yourself; in every battle, you will then be victorious.”

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Lions Led By Donkeys

We get the politicians we deserve!

The A Political Quagmire: Navigating Uncertain Seas in the US and UK

The year 2023 has painted a stark picture of political dysfunction in both the United States and the United Kingdom. In the US, a gridlocked Congress produced a meager 23 bills, a far cry from the legislative productivity expected from the world’s leading democracy. Across the Atlantic, the echoes of Brexit continue to reverberate, with the UK Parliament bogged down in endless debates instead of tackling the pressing economic challenges facing the nation. This grim reality poses a significant challenge for individuals and businesses in both countries, leaving them adrift in a sea of uncertainty.

The American Stalemate: A Congress in Paralysis

The 2023 legislative output of the US Congress stands as a testament to the deep partisan divide currently gripping American politics. Republicans and Democrats seem locked in a perpetual tug-of-war, more interested in scoring political points than finding common ground. This has resulted in a legislative drought, leaving crucial issues like healthcare reform, infrastructure development, and climate change unaddressed.

For individuals, this political paralysis translates into a sense of disillusionment and a feeling of being forgotten by their elected representatives. The lack of progress on key issues like healthcare affordability and student loan debt directly impacts their lives, while the inaction on climate change raises anxieties about the future. Meanwhile, businesses face an unpredictable regulatory environment, hindering investment and economic growth.

Navigating the Labyrinth: What Americans Can Do

In the face of this legislative inertia, individuals and businesses must become the architects of their own destinies. Here are some strategies to navigate the American political quagmire:

  • Stay informed: Stay abreast of current events and political developments. Follow reputable news sources from both sides of the spectrum to understand the nuances of the issues and hold your elected officials accountable.
  • Engage constructively: Reach out to your representatives and express your concerns and priorities. Support organizations that advocate for issues you care about and participate in peaceful protests and demonstrations.
  • Vote strategically: Research the candidates in your local and national elections and vote based on their track record and policy positions. Consider candidates who demonstrate a willingness to compromise and work across the aisle.
  • Focus on local politics: Engage with your local community and participate in local elections. Local governments often have a significant impact on daily life, and your involvement can make a real difference.
  • Support civic engagement initiatives: Encourage and educate others about the importance of political participation. Promote initiatives that foster civil discourse and bridge the partisan divide.

Brexit’s Bitter Aftermath: UK’s Economy Lost in the Fog

While the US suffers from congressional gridlock, the UK grapples with the fallout of Brexit. The 2016 referendum, which saw a narrow vote to leave the European Union, has plunged the nation into a protracted political and economic crisis. Parliament remains embroiled in endless debates about the terms of the withdrawal agreement, with little progress made on addressing the concerns of businesses and citizens regarding trade, immigration, and the future of the National Health Service.

For individuals, Brexit has brought uncertainty about jobs, wages, and access to essential goods and services. Businesses face complex bureaucratic hurdles and the potential for reduced market access. The ongoing political turmoil erodes confidence in the economy and dampens investment, further hindering growth.

Charting a Course Forward: How the UK Can Steer Out of Troubled Waters

To emerge from this quagmire, the UK needs a renewed focus on pragmatism and national unity. Here are some potential pathways forward:

  • Prioritise the economy: Parliament must shift its focus from Brexit minutiae to addressing the immediate concerns of businesses and citizens. Policies that stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and support vulnerable communities are essential.
  • Seek common ground: Political parties must find ways to cooperate and compromise on key issues.Collaborative leadership that transcends partisan divides is crucial for navigating the challenges ahead.
  • Foster open dialogue: The government must engage in transparent communication with the public, clearly explaining the implications of various Brexit scenarios and seeking feedback on potential solutions.
  • Invest in education and skills training: Equipping the workforce with the necessary skills to thrive in the post-Brexit landscape is crucial for long-term economic success.
  • Promote international cooperation: Building strong relationships with other countries, both within and outside of the EU, will be essential for securing trade deals and fostering economic opportunity.

A Common Challenge, Different Solutions

While the political landscapes of the US and UK differ significantly, the challenges they face share a common thread: a lack of effective governance and a disconnect between elected officials and the people they represent. To overcome these hurdles, both nations must rediscover the spirit of compromise, prioritise the needs of their citizens and businesses, and embrace pragmatism over ideology.

The road ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, but by staying informed, engaging constructively, and holding their leaders accountable, individuals and businesses can play a vital role.

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Pros and Cons Of Economic Migration into UK and USA

Trying to take wokeness out of key business risk management threats and opportunities

Can Economic Migrants Be the Recessionary Storm’s Lifeline? A 2024 Outlook for UK and USA

As storm clouds gather on the economic horizon, recessionary whispers turn into anxious roars in both the UK and the USA. In this tumultuous climate, a fascinating question emerges: Could economic migrants potentially act as a life raft, mitigating the damage of a potential recession in 2024?

As an expert economic analyst ( Keith Lewis ), I delve into this intricate issue, dissecting the potential role of economic migration in weathering the coming economic storm in these two major economies.

Buoying the Economy in Rough Seas:

Several arguments propose that economic migrants can serve as a buffer against recessionary forces:

  • Labour force resilience: With skilled and willing newcomers filling critical labour gaps, particularly in sectors facing shortages, economic migrants can bolster productivity and output. This can stabilise the economy and counteract downward trends, as evidenced by the contribution of migrant workers to sectors like UK healthcare and US agriculture.
  • Demand lifeline: By injecting fresh purchasing power into the economy, migrants can stimulate businesses and create jobs. This can boost aggregate demand, a crucial driver of economic recovery, as research by the OECD suggests with increased migration boosting GDP growth in several European countries.
  • Innovation anchor: Migrants often bring a wealth of entrepreneurial spirit and skills, driving business creation and innovation. This can foster economic growth and generate employment opportunities, potentially alleviating recessionary pressures, as demonstrated by the significant role of immigrants in US startup ecosystems.
  • Fiscal stability: As migrant workers contribute through income taxes and payroll deductions, they can bolster government revenue streams. This can provide crucial budgetary resources for social programs and infrastructure investments, helping governments navigate and mitigate the impact of a recession, as analyses in the UK suggest regarding the positive fiscal contribution of immigration.

However, navigating these turbulent waters necessitates caution:

  • Wage suppression: An influx of migrant workers can put downward pressure on wages,particularly for low-skilled jobs.This can dampen consumer spending and exacerbate inequalities, hindering overall economic growth, as studies in the US have shown in specific sectors.
  • Social tensions: Large-scale migration can strain social services and resources, potentially leading to public anxieties and fueling xenophobia.This can make it politically challenging to maintain open borders, even with potential economic benefits, as witnessed in the current political climates of both the UK and the USA.
  • Integration hurdles: Successful integration of migrants into the workforce and society is crucial for maximising their economic contribution. Language barriers, cultural differences, and lack of recognition of foreign qualifications can hinder integration, limiting the positive economic impact of migration. Robust policies promoting skill recognition and language training are essential to overcome these hurdles.

Navigating the Choppy Waters of 2024:

Assessing the evidence requires acknowledging the complexities of this issue. Studies on the direct link between economic migration and recessionary tendencies remain inconclusive, with varying results depending on factors like the skillsets of migrants, existing labour market conditions, and government policies. A tailored approach, considering specific national contexts, is crucial.

Charting the Course in 2024 and Beyond:

To leverage the potential benefits of economic migration while mitigating potential drawbacks in 2024 and beyond, both the UK and the USA can consider the following:

  • Skill-based migration strategies: Prioritising the entry of migrants with skills in high demand to address labour shortages and boost productivity, ensuring a win-win for both businesses and the economy.
  • Effective integration programs: Investing in language training, skills recognition, and cultural orientation programs can facilitate smooth integration, maximising the positive economic contribution of migrants and fostering social cohesion.
  • Robust social safety nets: Ensuring adequate social services and resources for both native and migrant populations can mitigate potential tensions and prevent economic hardship during a recession.
  • Data-driven policymaking: Continuously monitoring and analysing the impacts of migration policies on both the economy and social fabric is crucial for evidence-based policy adjustments and ensuring responsible management of migration in the face of economic challenges.

Conclusion:

While economic migrants cannot entirely prevent a recession, they can potentially play a crucial role in minimising its impact and expediting economic recovery. However, it is essential to acknowledge the complexities and potential challenges associated with migration. Openness to talent, coupled with responsible management, integration efforts, and data-driven policymaking, can harness the potential of economic migration to navigate the choppy waters of 2024 and build resilient economies for the future. Remember, weathering economic storms requires a balanced approach, embracing the potential of diverse resources while ensuring responsible and inclusive practices.

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Greatest Geopolitical Risks 2024

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The Looming Shadow: Navigating the Labyrinth of Geopolitical Risks in 2024

The world in 2023 stands at a crossroads. As the shadow of a global pandemic recedes, new anxieties grip the international landscape. Tensions simmer in familiar hotspots, while emerging threats whisper on the horizon. In this labyrinth of uncertainties, one question burns bright: what will be the greatest geopolitical risk in 2024?

Predicting the future is a fool’s errand, but anticipating and preparing for potential storms is the essence of responsible leadership. While pinpointing a singular “greatest” risk might be an oversimplification, we can examine four contenders each capable of casting a long, disruptive shadow in 2024:

1. The Dragon and the Tiger: Escalating Tensions in the Taiwan Strait:

The Taiwan Strait, a narrow waterway separating mainland China and the self-governing island of Taiwan, has long been a tinderbox of geopolitical tension. China, viewing Taiwan as a breakaway province, refuses to renounce the use of force in achieving reunification. Taiwan, on the other hand, maintains robust democratic institutions and enjoys strong international support, particularly from the United States.

In 2024, several factors could elevate the risk of confrontation in the Taiwan Strait:

  • Increased Chinese military assertiveness: Beijing’s recent actions, like frequent incursions into Taiwanese airspace and military drills simulating island invasion, signal a growing determination to assert its dominance.
  • Taiwan’s presidential elections: Scheduled for January 2024, the elections could see the victory of a pro-independence candidate, further inflaming Chinese grievances.
  • Miscalculations and accidents: Unforeseen incidents, either military mishaps or deliberate provocations, could spiral into an unintended conflict with devastating consequences.

The potential ramifications of a Taiwan Strait conflict are immense. A full-scale war could trigger a massive humanitarian crisis, disrupt global supply chains, and plunge the world into a new era of Cold War-esque tensions.

2. The Ukrainian Quagmire: War’s Long Shadow and Spillover Risks:

The ongoing war in Ukraine continues to cast a long, dark shadow over Europe and the global order. Even if a resolution were reached in 2024, the war’s legacy will extend far beyond the battlefield. Here are some potential avenues for risk:

  • Protracted conflict and instability: Even a ceasefire wouldn’t guarantee lasting peace. A simmering conflict in Ukraine could destabilise the region, create a humanitarian crisis, and strain international relations.
  • Spillover effects into neighbouring countries: The war could trigger unrest or refugee crises in bordering nations like Moldova, Belarus, and the Baltic states.
  • Weapons proliferation and escalation: The possibility of Russia or Ukraine resorting to unconventional weapons or dragging other powers into the conflict cannot be entirely discounted.

The war in Ukraine has already disrupted the global food and energy markets, impacting economies worldwide. A further escalation could exacerbate these vulnerabilities, leading to economic hardship and political instability in vulnerable regions.

3. Iran’s Nuclear Tightrope: Unveiling the Bomb or Stepping Back from the Brink?

Iran’s nuclear programme remains a contentious issue, raising concerns about its potential for weapons development and regional instability. In 2024, the trajectory of Iran’s nuclear ambitions could significantly impact the geopolitical landscape:

  • Collapse of the JCPOA: The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which aimed to curb Iran’s nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief, currently hangs by a thread. Its collapse could pave the way for Iran to accelerate its nuclear activities,raising the specter of a military strike from Israel or the United States.
  • Internal political dynamics: The political climate in Iran could influence its approach to the nuclear issue. Hardliners gaining ascendancy could increase the risk of confrontation, while moderates gaining ground could offer an opportunity for renewed diplomacy.
  • Regional proxy conflicts: Iran’s support for Shia militias across the Middle East could exacerbate existing tensions and potentially trigger wider regional conflicts.

A nuclear-armed Iran could reshape the Middle East power dynamics, posing a significant threat to Israel and its allies. It could also trigger a nuclear arms race in the region, further destabilising an already volatile part of the world.

4. Climate Change and the Looming Resource Wars:

While traditionally considered a non-traditional security threat, climate change is increasingly recognised as a potential driver of geopolitical instability. In 2024, its impact could become more pronounced through:

  • Resource scarcity and competition: Water scarcity, food insecurity, and energy shortages driven by climate change could exacerbate existing resource competition, potentially leading to conflicts over crucial resources.
  • Mass migration and displacement: Climate-induced migration could strain social and political systems in receiving countries, potentially triggering unrest and xenophobia.

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How accurate are IMF economic forecasts?

What is the IMF economy forecast for 2023 for UK?

What is the IMF prediction for the UK in 2023?

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has been criticised for its wild economic forecast swings for the UK in 2023. In April, the IMF predicted that the UK economy would contract by 0.3% in 2023. However, in July, the IMF upgraded its forecast to 0.4% growth. This sharp reversal has led some to question the IMF’s credibility and to suggest that it is politically motivated.

There are a number of factors that could explain the IMF’s wild forecast swings. One possibility is that the IMF was simply wrong in its initial assessment of the UK economy. The UK economy has been facing a number of challenges in 2023, including rising inflation, a cost of living crisis, and the ongoing war in Ukraine. However, the UK economy has also shown some resilience in recent months. GDP growth has been positive, and unemployment has remained low.

Another possibility is that the IMF was caught off guard by the UK government’s response to the economic challenges. In April, the UK government announced a number of measures to help businesses and consumers cope with the rising cost of living. These measures included a windfall tax on energy companies and a cut to fuel duty. The IMF may have underestimated the impact of these measures on the UK economy.

Whatever the reason for the IMF’s wild forecast swings, it has led some to question the organisation’s credibility. The IMF is an influential organisation that provides economic advice to governments around the world. If the IMF cannot be trusted to provide accurate economic forecasts, then its advice is less valuable.

The IMF’s credibility has also been damaged by its previous inaccurate predictions. In 2008, the IMF predicted that the global financial crisis would have a limited impact on the UK economy. However, the UK economy was one of the hardest hit by the crisis. The IMF’s inaccurate prediction led some to question whether the organisation was too close to the financial sector and whether it was not willing to challenge the status quo.

In addition to its inaccurate predictions, the IMF has also been criticised for its political bias. Some critics have argued that the IMF is more likely to give favourable advice to countries that are aligned with the United States. For example, the IMF was criticised for its handling of the Greek debt crisis. The IMF imposed harsh austerity measures on Greece, which many believe exacerbated the country’s economic problems.

The IMF’s wild forecast swings for the UK in 2023 and its previous inaccurate predictions have led some to question the organisation’s credibility and to suggest that it is politically motivated. The IMF will need to do more to restore its credibility if it wants to maintain its influence in the global economy.

In addition to the points raised above, there are a number of other factors that could be contributing to the IMF’s wild forecast swings for the UK. These include:

  • The complexity of the global economy, which makes it difficult to predict with certainty how events will unfold.
  • The uncertainty surrounding the UK’s future relationship with the European Union.
  • The changing political landscape in the UK.

The IMF is a valuable organisation that provides important economic advice to governments around the world. However, the IMF’s credibility has been damaged by its wild forecast swings and its previous inaccurate predictions. The IMF will need to do more to restore its credibility if it wants to maintain its influence in the global economy.

What is the IMF prediction for the UK in 2023? What is the IMF economy forecast for 2023? What is the IMF economic growth forecast for the UK? How accurate are IMF economic forecasts?
IMF Forecasting Incompetence? How accurate are IMF economic forecasts? IMF UK growth forecast 2023. Read on …

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Uncertainty of international trade expanding or contracting impacting on your business objectives

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Risk Management Toolbox Talk Exploring Barriers To And Opportunities From International Trade

What could cause the opening or closing international trade marketplace? The closing or opening of international trade to your business is perhaps at a recent high level of uncertainty. What elements of international trade threaten your business? What events could open up new opportunities to your business? How do you manage the risks better? Mitigate the threats impacting on your business success. Enhance the beneficial outcomes for your business of international trade.

Northern Powerhouse Risk Management Online Seminars

Online workshop is an introduction to BusinessRiskTV online risk management service to help business leaders make key business decisions to manage threats and opportunities better.

The opening or closing of international marketplace to all who wish to participate is a moving feast. Changes in threats and opportunities can arise based on sudden economic, geopolitical and technology risks in particular.

Managing risks from international trade may be limited to mitigating threats, or harnessing and enhancing the benefits from international trade. It may be impossible to influence whether risk events occur or not. However, exploring the threats and opportunities may be critical to your business success.

Being the first mover may be just as important. The first businesses to act tend to carry the greatest risks and rewards. If you are to act first you may need help from risk experts to improve your business intelligence and international trade risk knowledge.

Benefits include:

  • Limiting losses
  • Maximising sales profit
  • Grow faster with less uncertainty

Opening the enterprise risk management process of identifying analysing and assessing to international trade risks. Working on overcoming international trade barriers. Exploring a risk profile of a company and international trade risks. Developing an enterprise risk management implementation road map to stronger business resilience and expansion. Starting to understand how to overcome trade barriers including supply chain risk management. Identifying solutions to international trade problems. Opening the door to further risk workshops with an introduction to international trade risk awareness training and enterprise-wide risk management solutions.

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How to attend online risk management toolbox talk on

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Uncertainty of international trade expanding or contracting
Date:Friday 15th January 2021
Time:5:00 pm – 5:30 pm (GMT)
Speaker:Keith Lewis
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In this this essential risk management toolbox talk we will cover the key international trade risks potentially impacting on your business including:

  • Geopolitical Risks
  • Global Economy Risks
  • Technology Risks

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Northern Powerhouse Risk Management Online Seminars

Pay fee online via secure third party payment service Paypal who do not inform us of your full account details. We will email you the Zoom video conferencing joining instructions no later than 24 hours before the workshop begins.

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Post introductory online risk management toolbox talk on 15th January 2021, members and non-members of BusinessRiskTV will also be given opportunity to collaborate in future online advanced workshop sessions. These sessions will further explore how business leaders around the world can collaborate specifically on overcoming barriers to international trade, both theory and practice. These advanced workshops sessions will aim to increase international trade by participants. Workshop participants will share expert knowledge and practical business development tools. The introductory online fee will be used to reduce the cost of more advanced sessions by participants.

Participants at introductory online risk management toolbox talk can also put themselves forward as international trade risk experts at future more advanced online workshop events to share your expert knowledge and promote their business interests. Get in touch with us if this is you.

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