FORBES GLOBAL CEO CONFERENCE

Now in its 21st year, the prestigious Forbes Global CEO Conference will be held this September 11–12, 2023 in Singapore. The conference convenes CEOs, tycoons, entrepreneurs, investors and thought leaders to discuss key issues of global concern and to build new partnerships.

AGENDA

A sea change is underway. Nearly 15 years of expansionary monetary policy reverts to one that fights inflation. Interest rates have returned to their long-term mean, setting off an economic maelstrom. The financial system flirts with moral hazards. Bear markets have come out of hibernation and compete with a long-fattened bull market for investor sentiment. Startups stumble, the new up-round is a same-round, while unicorns beat a path to profits, or be put out to pasture. The world is in reverse: deleveraging, decelerating and deglobalizing. Economic headwinds abound, as both East and West look for ways to manage simmering trade and geopolitical tensions. It’s more than a pivot, it’s a global grinding of the gears as the world shifts to a new normal—or a new abnormal? Unfurl your sails, now is the time to ride the transformational waves of sea change.

Scanning the Horizon

Winds of change are blowing through the global economy, from rate hikes to recession fears to instability in the banking system. Geopolitical storm clouds are gathering across the Indo-Pacific, while actual conflict continues in Europe. Volatility washes across capital markets. Globalization is in danger of running aground. A panel of thought leaders will scan the horizon and discuss what’s ahead.

Investment Realignment

Dark clouds can have silver linings. Investing in the new abnormal requires perspective and judgment, as rates go up and valuations come down. Where should one deploy capital? Should it be commodities, fixed income, stocks, property or alternative investments? Will AI rekindle growth investing? Which geography offers the best returns? And should crypto-assets be canceled? This panel will discuss realigning investment strategies.

On Solid Ground

Property, once a stable anchor for investment, has been roiled by rate hikes and social shifts post-Covid. The commercial and retail sectors are challenged in some geographies as staff gradually return to offices and consumers increasingly shop online. Hospitality provides some respite as travel rebounds, while the residential and industrial sectors vary widely across global markets. Leaders in property will look into opportunities in real estate and property across Asia and the world.

Captains Courageous

It takes boldness and vision to pilot an enterprise as the global business scene is transformed by new realities. The view from the top provides some perspective, but the rest of the crew must be motivated to embrace change as well. Input from other stakeholders such as boards, shareholders and governments must also be taken into consideration. Those who are braving today’s disruptive forces will offer advice from the captain’s chair.

On the Road Again

With the lifting of travel restrictions worldwide, everyone is out and about—both for leisure and business. But is it all clear skies for the travel and hospitality industries now? Or has the post-pandemic environment brought fundamental shifts in how we travel and lodge while venturing far from home? Those who are in the business of travel offer some directions.

Changing Course

New waves of innovation bring challenges and opportunities at an ever-accelerating pace. Some ideas will fall by the wayside, while others will succeed, bring disruption and catalyze new multi-billion-dollar markets. Businesses which can take on board new innovations can then go full speed ahead while others may be broadsided by them. A panel of innovators will look at how best to optimize in a time of transformation.

Full Speed Ahead

Entrepreneurs boldly go where others have not gone before. They play a crucial role in developing new industries, new markets and new growth for economies. Their reward is creating outsized value for themselves and stakeholders. They also help boost productivity and efficiencies in how global business is done. Veteran entrepreneurs from around the world will discuss the how-to of their risk-taking craft.

Next Frontiers

Taking over an established family business is a hands-on job. One must learn the ropes from the older generation. But to reach new areas of business and growth, one must also be willing to try out new ideas, technologies, markets or partnerships. Yet there will be others who set out on their own journeys and start their own ventures. Hear views from those moving forward to the next frontier.