Six signals for 2026 that leaders in government, technology and investment should act on now. A strategic view of geopolitics, trust and reputation as operating constraints.

Tech IPO valuations are soaring as SpaceX, OpenAI and Anthropic reshape markets. We need to think whether ambition, narrative and AI hype are driving sustainable value or a growing bubble.

The 2025 US National Security Strategy marks a break from liberal globalisation. Supply-chain control and strategic competition are now board-level priorities. What this means for investors and executives.

The UK’s 2025 Budget raised taxes to historic highs but failed to reduce regulatory friction or unlock investment. Here is why these risks pose a long-term growth and why the narrative will impact how UK businesses see the benefit of investing.

Corporate venture capital is more than capital, it’s capability, insight, and strategic advantage. But to scale innovation and deliver returns, CVCs must treat communications as core infrastructure. I attended GCV Symposium in London this week and discussed why strategic comms is critical to trust, growth, and investor value.

Reputation is now a key driver of investment decisions across venture capital, corporate venture capital, and family offices. In this blog, we examine how trust influences deal speed, valuation, and risk, and offer practical guidance for founders and investors navigating today’s reputation-first funding landscape.

Venture capital is evolving rapidly, with AI, fintech, and climate tech dominating investment flows. According to CB Insights’ State of Venture 2024 report, global VC funding has hit an eight-year low, but key sectors and regions are still thriving. While the US, UK, and parts of Asia attract strong investment, China, Canada, and Germany face declines. As governments refine policies and start-ups adapt to investor demands, 2025 presents both challenges and opportunities for venture-backed innovation.

Strategic communications is a game-changer for CEOs, business leaders, and CVC investors, driving higher valuations, stronger acquisitions, and better ROI. Companies with proactive market positioning secure higher valuations and greater acquisition success. Learn how CVCs can unlock long-term growth and competitive advantage through strategic communications and stakeholder engagement.

Today, the UK government published its Industrial Strategy Green Paper, a public consultation that asks businesses to' help shape the industrial strategy.’  Timed to coincide with the International Investment Summit, the Green Paper presents the government’s vision for driving long-term economic growth. Yet, while it is being unveiled at a gathering of international investors, the UK must support the creation of a corporate venture capital ecosystem that can support UK innovation that can deliver growth.