

The Geopolitics of Business
SG& Capital Partners
The Geopolitics of Business is the podcast where the boardroom meets the stateroom. On each episode, host Sam Gyimah, a former Wall Street Bank financier, entrepreneur, and British Government Minister, and now Founder and CEO of advisory and investment firm SG& Capital Partners, has frank discussions on the impacts on business of big political decisions with the world's leading investors, CEOs and politicians who have made the big calls at the toughest moments. With themes ranging from shifting power blocs, rapidly advancing technology, de-globalisation, end of free money, populism and polarisation and climate action, these conversations are meant to engage, illuminate and provide insights for leaders seeking greater understanding of the high stakes interplay between global business and geopolitics, and where we’re heading. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 20, 2025 • 37min
Democracy, China, and the future of Western politics: Lord Chris Patten
In this week’s episode, Sam joins Lord Chris Patten at his London home for a discussion about the state of global democracy. Known as one of the big beasts of British politics, Chris has held senior roles in the cabinet, the EU and most notably, as the last governor of Hong Kong. He’s also been chancellor of Oxford University. The conversation focuses on the challenges of sustaining democracy, the rise of populism, the importance of truth, free speech and checks and balances. Chris reflects on his personal experiences in negotiations with China, Russia, Iran and the EU. Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 00:00 The Challenges of Sustaining Democracy 02:58 The Rise of Populism and Economic Failures 03:25 Political Truths and Voter Expectations 06:08 International Relations and Diplomacy 06:46 Iran's Nuclear Ambitions and Diplomacy 10:15 Hong Kong and China's Ambitions 24:11 Higher Education in the Crosshairs of Geopolitics 25:23 The Importance of Free Speech in Universities 30:04 Mass Higher Education and Its Challenges 31:51 Developing Human Capital in the Age of AI 33:41 Leadership and Choosing Advisers 35:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 13, 2025 • 49min
When growth fails - Politics, economics and the new global order: Baroness Dambisa Moyo
This week, Sam is taking a deep dive into global economics with Baroness Dambisa Moyo. From the importance of economic growth and the structural issues affecting it, to deglobalisation, populism and technology, the esteemed economist and author gives her appraisal of what is happening around the world and what comes next. Baroness Moyo and Sam also discuss how governments and businesses need to adapt to the shifting geopolitical landscape, what the opportunities are for investors and what the cuts to aid budgets could mean for Africa. Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 00:00 Introduction to Geopolitics and Economics 02:08 The Importance of Economic Growth 02:55 Challenges Facing Major Economies 04:29 The Role of Capital, Labour, and Productivity 08:31 Impact of Globalisation and Populism and Trump 12:32 Future of Global Economic Order 14:51 Technological Disruption and Job Market 16:34 Investor Strategies in a Changing World 24:42 Short-Term Tactical Changes and Global Capital Flows 26:03 Opportunities in Different Regions 28:15 The Future of the US Dollar and Fiat Currencies 34:17 China's Economic and Political Landscape 39:05 The UK's Role in the Global Economy 41:34 Challenges for Emerging Markets and Development Finance 45:48 The Interplay Between Politics and Economics 48:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 6, 2025 • 42min
Pioneering healthtech in Europe: Ida Tin and Dan Vahdat
In this episode of 'Geopolitics of Business,' host Sam Gyimah talks with Ida Tin, the entrepreneur who coined the term FemTech and developed the period-tracking app Clue, and Dan Vahdat, CEO of Huma, a remote healthcare platform that leverages AI. Ida discusses FemTech's impact on women's health and its struggle for recognition and funding, while Dan explores the transformative potential of AI in healthcare. Both guests share their insights on building successful tech companies in Europe, navigating venture capital challenges, and envisioning a future where technology creates healthier societies. These recordings were made in collaboration with our partners at FII Priority Europe. Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 00:00 Introduction to Women's Health and Economy00:15 Meet the Visionaries: Ida Tin and Dan Vahdat00:34 The Predictability of Heart Attacks00:42 Different Approaches to Health Tech Business02:14 The Concept of Fem Tech05:52 Challenges in Fem Tech Funding08:28 Building a Global Fem Tech Company15:09 The Future of Fem Tech and AI18:00 Europe as a Hub for Health Innovation20:16 Political Leadership and European Vision20:49 Challenges of Building Companies in Europe22:14 A Vision for Europe's Future23:35 Introduction to Dan Vahdat and Huma23:55 Huma's Mission and Healthcare AI25:28 Scaling Challenges in Healthcare26:41 AI's Role in Healthcare Transformation29:59 Global Disparities in AI and Healthcare32:40 Entrepreneurial Landscape and Geopolitics35:12 Government's Role in Innovation39:47 Ethics and Future of AI in Healthcare40:31 Huma's Future Plans and Conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 30, 2025 • 45min
Fixing UK plc: Lord Gerry Grimstone
This week, Sam Gyimah is joined by Lord Gerry Grimstone — former UK Investment Minister and a key figure behind the 1980s privatisations that reshaped the British economy. From transforming state assets under Thatcher to chairing Barclays and Standard Life, Grimstone shares insider lessons on reform, regulation, and the realities of attracting investment. They explore what it will take to fix UK plc, unlock growth, and navigate an increasingly uncertain global economic landscape.Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 23, 2025 • 30min
Investing in the new defence economy: Ambassador Stefano Pontecorvo
This week, host Sam Gyimah sits down with Stefano Pontecorvo, President of Italian defence and aerospace giant Leonardo and former ambassador to NATO. They explore the shifting landscape of global defence investment, why Europe must catch up with U.S. spending, and the end of the post-Cold War peace dividend. Plus: investment opportunities, rising “neo primes” or challenger defence companies, and how the private and public sector can work together. Recorded in collaboration with FII at FII Priority Europe 2025.Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 16, 2025 • 34min
Business Diplomacy in the new world order: Richard Attias
For this first episode of our new series, host Sam Gyimah is in conversation with Richard Attias, Chair of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) – a nonprofit foundation with an investment arm, backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia. Richard has the ear of world leaders, has built FII into the world’s leading investment forum and has strong opinions on the global economy. He talks to Sam about the power of conversation and inclusivity to solve the world’s problems and shares his thoughts on where the smart money is being invested. Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black Music composed by Sophie Sirota For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 21, 2023 • 37min
Moonshots & AI: Astro Teller
This week on the show we explore moonshots and artificial intelligence with Astro Teller, the co-founder of and CEO of X, Alphabet's moonshot factory, which is responsible for inventing and launching breakthrough technologies.Teller is a believer in rethinking how companies innovate and solve what seem like unsolvable problems. He and host Sam Gyimah have a wide ranging conversation on big tech, AI, regulation, and big ideas in business.The Geopolitics of Business is a show by Sam Gyimah, produced by FP Studios. Views and opinions expressed on the podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Foreign Policy, its affiliates, or any institution Sam Gyimah is associated with. Investment carries risk. We recommend individual investors consult with an independent financial advisor before making any investment. For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 14, 2023 • 28min
Britain's Economy Post-Brexit: Lords Heseltine & O'Neill
This week on the show host Sam Gyimah explores Britain’s economy and place in the world post-Brexit with two "big beasts" of British politics of economics. First Sam speaks with Lord Michael Heseltine, former Deputy Prime Minister of Great Britain - a titan of British Politics for over half a century - and one of the few Conservative voices who spoke out against Brexit. Then Sam gets additional insights from Lord Jim O’Neil, an Independent Member of the House of Lords, former UK Treasury Minister, and former Chairman of Goldman Sachs Asset Management.The Geopolitics of Business is a show by Sam Gyimah, produced by FP Studios. Views and opinions expressed on the podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Foreign Policy, its affiliates, or any institution Sam Gyimah is associated with. Investment carries risk. We recommend individual investors consult with an independent financial advisor before making any investment. For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 7, 2023 • 41min
Superpowers & the World: Paul Ryan
In this episode, we dive into U.S. politics with Paul Ryan, the former speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. In a wide-ranging interview with host Sam Gyimah, the two discuss the current state of American democracy and its impact on the world, various business scenarios related to the outcome of the 2024 U.S. elections, and why in today’s complex world, multinational CEOs need to think like politicians and be up to speed on issues such as trade, immigration, and the so-called culture wars.The Geopolitics of Business is a show by Sam Gyimah, produced by FP Studios. Views and opinions expressed on the podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Foreign Policy, its affiliates, or any institution Sam Gyimah is associated with. Investment carries risk. We recommend individual investors consult with an independent financial advisor before making any investment. For listener questions or business inquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 30, 2023 • 33min
Breakout Nations: Ruchir Sharma
Ruchir Sharma is a seasoned writer and investor with deep expertise in emerging markets, currently heading Rockefeller Capital Management's international business. He shares invaluable insights on identifying ripe investment opportunities in developing countries. The discussion delves into the US-China rivalry's risks and its impact on global supply chains, highlighting shifts toward India and Mexico. Sharma also touches on the evolving dynamics of Africa's commodity markets and the rising importance of middle powers in global finance, underscoring geopolitical influences on economic strategies.


