From MSCI Carbon Conference “5 Global Trends to Focus On”
Feb 22, 2012
by Chris Billman

Earlier this week I discussed some of the general themes and take aways from last week’s MSCI Carbon Conference.  Below is a deeper look at one presentation in particular:    

Jeff Garten, former dean of Yale School of Management and expert on Global Business Strategy, gave a great presentation.  While gloomy at parts, he provided an insightful view of the current global economy. I’d like to recap the part of his presentation that I found most interesting, that is “5 Global Trends to Focus On.” 

Having a global view is more essential now than ever to all businesses and hopefully these trends will continue to drive insight and discussion:

  1. The Rise of Emerging Markets
    • The BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China) are growing at extreme rates, particularly in the middle class.
    • These countries currently account for more than 50% of the global GDP, with that percentage increasing every quarter.
    • Demand from these countries, both for raw material and finished goods will continue to increase.
  1. Deleveraging in the U.S., Europe and Japan
    • Large increases in debt will lead to a painful 10-year process to work through.
    • Slow growth should be expected from these regions.
    • Slowdown of government investments.
  1. Global Resource Nationalization
    • Countries will become more protective of their own resources.
    • Brazil has gone all in on Chinese growth; the majority of Brazil’s resources are tied to China.
  1. The Growth of Economic/Political Communication Technology
    • A global view of information at the same time has never been possible, getting closer to obtaining that scenario.
    • We’re only 2% into communication revolution.
    • Greater communication technology will lead to more events like the Arab Spring movements of the last year.
  1. A More Strategic Insight to Recognizing Trends
    • Increased development of planning processes.
    • Leaning to more strategy-focused business plans.
Did you attend the conference? What did you think of this presentation and his insights on developing business trends?
 
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Ever-increasing market volatility within the steel industry creates a heightened need to understand current economic trends. Majestic Steel Research distributes timely economic information and analysis, allowing Majestic Steel USA to be agile in a competitive marketplace, make wise purchasing decisions for ourselves and our customers, and drive valuable conversation in the industry.