The Global Economy: Signals for the Year Ahead

Global growth has remained surprisingly robust despite a succession of shocks, including geopolitical tensions, trade fragmentation, policy uncertainty, and the most severe energy crisis since the 1970s. Asia continues to anchor global expansion, while investment in AI and strategic industries is reconfiguring markets, supply chains, and competitiveness. Yet significant downside risks persist, including escalating geopolitical rivalries, mounting fiscal pressures, and structural economic shifts. Setting the scene for the day’s conversations, this opening panel will offer a clear-eyed perspective on the economy in 2027 and beyond. Ziad Haider, Partner, Global Director of Geopolitics , McKinsey & Company Louis-Vincent Gave, Founding Partner and Chief Executive Officer, Gavekal Andrew Staples, Co-chair, Fortune Leaders Forum; Editorial Director, Asia, Fortune