Global Business insights

Africa, Rising Again

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 12:00:00 -0400

Africa has shown strong resilience in a challenging environment as reforms and a new local value and growth mindset begins to take root. Olusoji Elias, a global markets expert and Chief Counsel at Greyhorse Financial Corp., continues an earlier conversation on Africa’s role in global markets. He argues that effective regulatory and policy frameworks, whether for banks or other industries, must directly address development obligations and local realities—not only global best practices. Plus other business headlines.

Winning with Artificial Intelligence

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 01:00:00 -0400

The AI honeymoon may be ending, but the partnership between human and artificial intelligence is still in early stages. Tosin Fasidi, an accomplished procurement leader, strategist and speaker, examines the key issues and shares insights on how to get it right. As the initial excitement fades, organisations are shifting their focus to delivering tangible benefits.

Nigeria Inflation Holds at 15.91%: Will CBN Cut Rates?

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:00:00 -0400

Nigeria’s June inflation was largely unchanged at 15.91%, but food prices and energy-cost risks remain key concerns. As the Central Bank of Nigeria prepares for its July MPC meeting, investors and analysts are not expecting rate cuts. Instead, they are watching for signals on how the apex bank is interpreting the data and recent geopolitical developments. Nigeria’s reforms are beginning to deliver results as the country continues to prioritise and incentivise foreign investment inflows.

In the US, major banks continue to deliver strong Q2 earnings, appearing largely unaffected by the US-Iran crisis as America launches fresh strikes on Iran.

China’s economy slows - growing by 4.3% in Q2. Plus other business headlines.

Is the AI Honeymoon Over?

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Artificial Intelligence adoption is entering a more challenging phase as costs rise, user frustration slowly grows, and CEOs face mounting pressure to prove real value. This episode explores why the initial AI honeymoon may be ending, the qualities tech-driven leaders need to move the needle, and why CEOs must lead in setting clear strategy to leverage AI - from being just a very smart tool into lasting competitive advantage.

The CEO Mindset for the Era of Reinvention

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Once defined by stewardship, the CEO role is now increasingly about survival. As AI, activist investors, market pressure, and shifting workplace cultures reshape leadership expectations, CEO profiles are changing and tenures are shortening. This episode explores why CEOs are stepping down in droves, why traditional governance is falling short, and the five traits a new genre of younger tech-driven leaders need - to thrive in this era of reinvention.

IMF Update on Global Economy, War & AI Technology

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0400

In today’s World Economic Outlook update, the IMF points to a resilient, V-shaped recovery, but warns that inflation remains elevated amid geopolitical uncertainty. AI-driven investment is boosting semiconductor firms and reshaping global markets, while renewed US-Iran hostilities could trigger commodity price shocks that hit vulnerable economies hardest. The IMF urges central banks to stay focused on price stability as disinflation trend loses momentum. Plus, other business headlines.

Oil and Gas Prices: A Market Guessing Game

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:00 -0400

Seven OPEC+ countries have raised output by another 188,000 b/d as producers compete for market share amid geopolitical uncertainty and slowing growth. With Saudi Arabia, Iran, the US and others boosting supply, analysts are split: will Brent drop to $60, or will new tensions push prices higher? Plus other business headlines.

Global Economic Resilience 2026: Will Growth Survive the Shocks?

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0400

Global economies showed surprising resilience in the first half of 2026 despite inflation, energy price shocks, and geopolitical uncertainty. This episode examines the latest PMI data from the US, China, UK, Europe, South Africa, and Nigeria, while exploring central bank responses, growth risks and thoughts on the outlook for the second half. We also replay clip of Ajibola Olomola, Partner KPMG Nigeria on the Nigeria economy in H1 2026.

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Halftime on the Geoeconomic Pitch

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 09:00:00 -0400

At halftime in 2026, Global Business Insights reviews the geoeconomic winners and losers. From SpaceX, Nvidia, AI, China and Africa’s integration to wars, inflation, and political shifts, this episode suggests that technology sovereignty, global trade fragmentation and cost-of-living politics may be the key drivers defining the global second half ahead.

Ajibola Olomola, Partner at KPMG, also shares his views on Nigeria’s sustained economic and stock market growth in the first half of the year. He however notes that more must be done to maintain public buy-in while reforms take root and deliver broader benefits. How did you view the first half of the year for business?

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What will Drive Game Change for Africa?

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0400

What are the new ideas that will truly change Africa’s economic future? This episode explores why stronger growth forecasts are not enough, and what it will take to turn momentum into jobs, higher incomes and multi-decade transformation. From power and transport and digital infrastructure to scale, innovation, leadership and investment, we consider what real game change for Africa looks like.

Perspectives from Africa Debate 2026 in London, organised by Invest Africa, feature Arnold Ekpe, Chairman Business Council for Africa; Uche Orji, Founder Vitesse Africa; Rohitesh Dhawan, CEO International Council for Mining and Metals; Ipeleng Selele; Chair Brand South Africa and Lawrence Dechambenoit - Rio Tinto. It cannot be more of the same!

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Markets Ride the “Tsunami” Bull Run

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:00:00 -0400

Group CEO Jamie Dimon has described US markets as a “little tsunami” Bull Run, fuelled by strong earnings, optimism around AI, and a resilient economy. However, risks are building beneath the surface as investors question AI’s long-term potential and central banks shift policy. Could markets be heading for a sharp correction that catches investors off guard? And what happens when the little tsunami finally settles?

Crude oil prices continue to fall, with Brent Standard futures trading below $74 a barrel as supply concerns ease. The US also reassured markets that the Strait of Hormuz will not be tolled.

Nigerian regulators have ordered a halt to marketing for the Dangote Refineries IPO, noting that no application has yet been filed and warning that continued promotion could undermine market integrity. We also cover other international business headlines and more developments in Nigeria’s economy, including an alert from the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria.

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Leadership Lessons from Rise and Fall of Keir Starmer

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 13:00:00 -0400

What can leaders learn when rapid success turns into sudden decline? In this episode, we explore the leadership mistakes, strategic missteps, gaps, and stakeholder disconnects that often shape a dramatic fall from power.

Markets had priced in the news of Keir Starmer’s resignation today and will watching for who could also be the next Chancellors and what will change. This analysis highlights lessons for business leaders, executives, and decision-makers operating in volatile environments and is a timely case study on leadership, strategy, public sentiment, and the risks of losing touch with your core base.

US Vice President Vance hails "great progress" made in US-Iran peace talks – Crude oil prices down with Brent at around $78/bl end of day.

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Oil Markets after US-Iran MOU. Relief amid Uncertainty

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 15:00:00 -0400

Oil markets steadied after the US-Iran MOU eased immediate fears over the Strait of Hormuz, but uncertainty remains high. Brent crude stayed range-bound as traders weighed tanker movements, Iran’s future potential maritime fee plans, regional tensions involving Israel, and rising shipping and insurance costs.

This episode breaks down why prices still have a firm floor, how OPEC’s 2026 outlook changes the bigger picture, and why India, China, and Gulf producers are moving to boost energy security and find alternative supply routes.

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The Kevin Warsh Era kicks off US Federal Reserve Overhaul

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 16:00:00 -0400

The Kevin Warsh era at the US Federal Reserve begins with announcing five taskforces to overhaul Federal Reserve Operations as FOMC members strike a hawkish tone and hold rates at a 3.5%–3.75% target range. The shorter FED Policy statement also removes language pointing to future cuts. The Fed left interest rates unchanged for a fourth consecutive meeting, with inflation still stubbornly high and markets weighing the shift in leadership.

The June 2026 G7 Summit opened amid moderate expectations as attention turned anxiously to Friday’s expected signing of a US-Iran ceasefire MOU. G7 leaders also agreed to boost military support for Ukraine, tighten sanctions on Russia, and strengthen critical supply chains, particularly for key minerals.

Nigeria’s inflation climbed to 15.9% in May, but easing month-on-month price growth suggests pressures may be moderating. Lower energy prices could also help revive the disinflation trend and support possible Central Bank rate cuts later this year.

As price pressures build across the U.S., Europe, China, the UK, South Africa, and Nigeria, this episode examines the global inflation outlook, central bank decisions, oil price trends, geopolitical risks, and other key headlines shaping markets.

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The Trillionaire Era Begins: Musk Changes Everything

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 20:00:00 -0400

Elon Musk’s rise to trillionaire status marks a new era of extraordinary wealth, rapid innovation, and deepening inequality. As SpaceX expands and AI ambitions accelerate, critics warn that global wealth gaps are widening, with Oxfam highlighting rising poverty alongside surging billionaire fortunes ahead of the June G7 meeting. Oxfam says the G7 risks becoming irrelevant if it ignores inequality, while protests intensify and Tesla showrooms in Geneva are targeted.

Meanwhile, Trump says he has authorised the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the immediate removal of the US naval blockade following a completed agreement with Iran, set to be signed in Switzerland on June 19.

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Can China the “Dragon” lift Africa?

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:00:00 -0400

Can China truly lift Africa—or will it reshape the continent? It can, but Africa’s choices will matter more. Veteran Africa Analyst Jonathan Offei-Ansah, Publisher and Founder Africa Briefing Magazine, says the winners in this game will be those with a strong entrepreneurial mindset, the ability to negotiate from strength, diversified partnerships, disciplined governance and a clear view of both the opportunities and risks—while fiercely protecting their interests.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX spikes over 30% in a historic Wall Street debut. Spacex opened at $150 a share on Nasdaq with Musk’s net worth now roughly $1.05trillion.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister says US and Iran have agreed to text of a US-Iran peace deal. Plus more business headlines.

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Debating Development in Africa

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 19:00:00 -0400

On Wednesday, I attended the AFRICA Debate in London, where leaders including Ghana’s President Mahama and Nigeria’s Finance Minister discussed the future of development in Africa. Topics ranged from critical minerals and the energy transition to trade and investment. But how much of this is truly new?

The Africa RED Index, presented by Arnold Ekpe, shows that real progress, beyond the talk, depends on infrastructure, finance, and effective execution. Professor Alim Abubakr also explains why Morocco and Egypt rank highest in structural readiness for development on the Index. This episode moves beyond the rhetoric to examine what Africa must do differently to achieve meaningful growth.

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Review of EY Megatrends 2026: Reshaping Future Business

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 03:00:00 -0400

Discover the key insights from EY Megatrends 2026 and the main trends now reshaping business, technology, and leadership. From the rise of superfluid organizations and human-machine collaboration to talent disruption, migration shifts, and the global resource race —this episode details some of what leaders must do to stay ahead. Learn why trust, adaptability, and rethink of business norms have become essential in a non-linear world where change happens faster than ever before.

Rethinking Africa’s Informal Economy: A Pathway to Ending Poverty

Sat, 30 May 2026 03:00:00 -0400

Could Africa’s informal economy be an overlooked key to reducing poverty across the continent? In this episode, we examine why Africa needs a new approach to a sector that employs over 80% of its workforce. Pierre Nguimkeu, Director of the Africa Growth Initiative and Senior Fellow in Global Economy and Development at Brookings, argues that compliance is often demanded from the informal sector before value is delivered.

We also explore how Nigeria can follow the path taken by China and other countries to reduce poverty, with more than 100 million Nigerians still living in poverty.

Former Prime Minister Tony Blair says the present UK leadership has no idea on what to do to revive the economy. All this as France economy contracts in Q1, a first since after the COVID Pandemic. Plus other global Business Headlines.

Faye versus Sonko : Senegal’s Political Rupture

Tue, 26 May 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Senegal’s President Bassirou Faye, after suddenly removing his political patron Ousmane Sonko, has just appointed Mr. Al Aminou Lo as new Prime Minister. Amid IMF negotiations and desire to see more reforms, a hidden $7B debt discovery and efforts to stabilise the economy, Faye must also balance populist calls for economic nationalisation.

Veteran Africa analyst, Publisher Africa Briefing Magazine, Jon Offei-Ansah says this is a vital test for African democracies, where voters are calling for more economic sovereignty and there is need to go beyond protest politics to demonstrating capacity to lead in the more challenging economic context.

Then we pivot to Nigeria where Q1 2026 GDP growth cools to 3.89% as lower oil output and electricity supply weakened growth, not helped by a nation possibly more focused on preparations for primaries and political campaigns.

Dangote Refinery IPO: Pros and Cons

Sat, 23 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Africa’s biggest IPO is coming. Dangote Refinery plans to list up to 10% of its equity, aiming to raise $2B–$5B. Strong demand, aggressive expansion plans, and multi-exchange listings have boosted market expectations and generated some excitement. Still, risks remain, including valuation, regulation, governance, and geopolitics. This episode looks at some key pros, cons, and what investors should watch before investing in what could be Africa’s most influential listing in a renaissance narrative.

Kevin Warsh is sworn in as 17th Federal Reserve Chairman and other Business Headlines.

Nigeria Central Bank Holds amid Transitory War Impact

Thu, 21 May 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Nigeria’s CBN held rates at 26.5% as April inflation rose to 15.7%, describing the energy-driven pressure on prices as transitory. The UK surprised with CPI cooling to 2.8% and softer services inflation, even as fuel costs climbed. South Africa’s inflation jumped to 4.0%, raising SARB hike odds. Meanwhile, crude oil supply disruption and falling inventories keep oil markets tight. Nvidia reported better than expected revenue and forecasts and is returning $80B in buybacks and boosting dividend. Plus trade deals from EU-US tariff talks and UK-Gulf states.

0:00 Introduction

0:05 CBN Holds rates

9:01 Other Business Headlines

13:41 Global Markets (Nvidia Results)

Nigeria’s Inclusive Growth Moment

Mon, 18 May 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Nigeria’s economy is growing, yet many people feel worse off. This episode takes a closer look at how inclusive that growth really is. The country may post stronger GDP figures, supported by high oil prices, reforms, and improved investor sentiment. At the same time, inflation, rising fuel and transport costs, and high interest rates continue to put pressure on households, manufacturers, and small and medium-sized enterprises.

According to Dr Opeyemi Agbaje, Chairman PENCOM, Nigeria’s stabilisation has progressed quickly because of swift reforms, but policymakers still need to sustain targeted socioeconomic measures. A more constructive policy debate may now be needed on how these measures can be expanded and improved to reach more people.

Please share your thoughts in the comments: Is Nigeria’s economic growth becoming more inclusive, and what more should be done for that to happen sooner?

US-China Détente: The Thucydides Trap and Africa

Fri, 15 May 2026 03:00:00 -0400

US–China détente may be back, but Xi Jinping warns Washington to avoid the Thucydides Trap also as Taiwan tensions simmer. Markets applauded the Trump Xi Jinping meeting as Xi said the doors for US Business will only open wider and that consensus was reached to keep trade ties stable. But what is the Thucydides trap and what does this mean for Africa?

From the Africa Forward Summit in Kenya to Kigali’s Africa CEO Forum, the message is clear: Africa is back and attracting investor attention, but scale and integration—not rhetoric—will draw capital. Governance, infrastructure, power, skills, and education will determine the winners. Africa must also close the digital gap or face the serious risk of being sidelined in the technology race.

Africa Forward: Macron’s €23bn Bet in Kenya

Wed, 13 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

France and Kenya co-host the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, shifting from aid to investment. Macron unveils €23bn in energy, AI, port and jobs deals as Kenya touts AfCFTA opportunities and presses for fairer global finance. Protests and critics urge caution. South Africa’s President Ramaphosa skipped the summit, attended by about 30 heads of state, including Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu.

Oil and gas veteran Victor Eromosele weighs in after the UAE’s OPEC exit. UK gilt yields hit a record amid turmoil as four ministers quit, intensifying pressure on Keir Starmer after heavy local-election losses. Trump’s China visit with top US CEOs keeps markets on edge.

Spotlight on fighting Corruption. UK Illicit Finance Summit

Mon, 11 May 2026 02:00:00 -0400

Do we need more anti-corruption summits? Next month, London hosts the UK Illicit Finance Summit, a chance to curb dirty money and corruption. We show how light rules, weak enforcement, and fractured cross‑border cooperation let criminals exploit banks, property, gold, and crypto-assets while many look away. Transparency International highlights the “enablers”—lawyers, accountants, advisers, bankers and wealth managers—who use opaque structures like shells, trusts, and anonymous property to hide or launder stolen wealth. We outline what real reform requires and why it matters.

Artificial Intelligence and War Reshaping Supply Chains

Wed, 06 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

AI and war-driven geopolitics are rewriting global supply chains. Supply Chain Expert, Tosin Fasidi, explains why companies are shifting from legacy lowest-cost sourcing to resilient, regional, tech-enabled smart networks. Learn how generative AI improves risk sensing, supplier strategy, and procurement speed as inflation, tariffs, workforce aging, and conflict trigger shortages and price spikes.

With the latest April PMI data hinting at stockpiling and delays, and as procurement moves from back office to boardroom, supply chain is now a performance lever. Get it right to stay competitive; get it wrong, and there is a price to pay.

Future of Power Sector Reform. Nigeria tackles Challenges

Mon, 04 May 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Global power markets are shifting: geopolitics is lifting costs, renewables are becoming the cheapest new supply, and AI-driven demand is reviving interest in safer, affordable nuclear sources. In Nigeria, reforms could unlock investment and reliable electricity for homes, jobs, and growth. This episode discusses a potential reset in the Nigeria power sector - under accomplished technocrats - new Minister-designate Joseph Tegbe and Special Adviser Dr. Lanre Babalola. There is a clear and urgent need for rapid action, efficient execution, and bold decisive initiatives.

Abayomi Olarinmoye, Partner Andersen Consulting and Engr. Seun Faluyi, an industry veteran with over 30 yrs in Nigeria’s energy sector, also provide expert insights.

Talent and Skills Outlook for 2026

Sat, 02 May 2026 13:00:00 -0400

Talent and Skills Security Outlook for 2026 highlights how AI and geopolitics are transforming work, leadership, and value creation. With skills rapidly changing and roles evolving, organisations now prioritise Skill Security over Job Security.

This episode explores trends such as training embedded in daily workloads, human-plus-AI talent models, dynamic workforce planning, and change barriers such as the emotional toll for people adapting to AI and marriage to old pre-AI models. The episode provides actionable guidance for Boards, executives, and HR leaders. Includes other Business Headlines.

Why UAE quits OPEC in shock exit

Sat, 02 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Why did the UAE suddenly decide to leave OPEC—and what does it mean for global oil markets as the group’s influence wanes? In this episode we break down the tensions, quota conflicts, and strategic shifts that pushed one of OPEC’s most influential members to walk away. Is OPEC losing relevance in a rapidly changing energy world?