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Attending ABCC Event – Geopolitics Briefing: Growth Through Uncertainty

Understanding the current and future business environment as geopolitics sits at the top of the global risk agenda

Last week, Chatham Square attended an Australian British Chamber of Commerce event hosted by MinterEllison, examining the increasingly complex geopolitical environment and its implications for business.

Ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, shifting dynamics in the Indo-Pacific and intensifying strategic competition are reshaping international relations, security and trade. For business, these are no longer distant foreign policy issues. They are increasingly influencing supply chains, investment decisions, regulation, energy security and market access, with climate, critical minerals, technology and defence becoming ever more closely linked to geopolitical risk.

The event brought together an expert panel to discuss the current geopolitical landscape and what it means for Australian businesses. Pictured below is the panel which featured:

  • Alex Joiner, Chief Economist, IFM Investors
  • Dr Brian Jones, Acting British High Commissioner to Australia
  • Rebecca Shrimpton, Australia Country Executive, The Asia Group

The panel discussion was moderated by Elissa Romanin, Managing Partner – Melbourne.

Pictures courtesy of Mark Avellino

Drawing on expertise across government, finance and strategy, the panel explored the major geopolitical flashpoints shaping today’s environment. Discussion ranged from AUKUS and the Indo-Pacific to trade, tax and infrastructure investment, as well as the defence and technology opportunities emerging on Victoria’s doorstep.

To facilitate candid discussion and observations, the Chatham House Rule was invoked.

The panel discussion and audience Q&A provided key insights into what businesses need to consider when navigating an increasingly uncertain and contested global environment, including:

  • A clearer understanding of the geopolitical shifts most likely to affect business.
  • Practical insights into building resilience across supply chains, investment and operations.
  • Candid perspectives to help inform strategy development and risk planning.

Post event the attendees were able to meet with panel members to further discuss topics raised during the event.  Pictured below is our Managing Director Steven Holloway speaking with Rebecca Shrimpton.

Picture courtesy of Mark Avellino

For Chatham Square, the event was a timely reminder that geopolitical awareness is becoming an increasingly important consideration for organisations operating across government, industry and global markets.

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