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.

Geo-political and geo-economic risks are no longer abstract concerns; they are boardroom priorities shaping corporate strategy and investment decisions. From trade wars and sanctions to shifting regulatory landscapes, businesses and investors face increasing uncertainty. Yet, those who embed strategic communications, public affairs, and risk intelligence into their operations are better positioned to mitigate disruption and seize new opportunities. In 2025, forward-thinking leaders are investing in geo-political risk management not as a defensive measure, but as a competitive advantage. How prepared is your company?

The Stargate Project, a $500 billion initiative led by the U.S. government, SoftBank, and OpenAI, is set to redefine the global AI landscape. With cutting-edge infrastructure and support from tech giants like Microsoft, Arm, NVIDIA and Oracle, with investment from Softbank, Stargate aims to turbo-charge innovation across industries, from healthcare to energy and manufacturing. This transformative initiative offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses, investors, and governments worldwide. Discover how to navigate the risks, unlock strategic benefits, and position your company, start-up or investment portfolio at the forefront of this AI-driven revolution.

Strategic communication and stakeholder engagement are not optional for entrepreneurs, start-ups, and investors—they’re essential for driving growth and building resilience. This blog explores how embedding these strategies from the outset helps businesses overcome challenges, attract investment, and achieve sustainable success.

The UK’s AI Opportunities Action Plan targets £400 billion in economic value by 2030. Achieving this vision demands more than investments—it requires a cultural shift from risk aversion to innovation.

This blog explores how policy, fiscal incentives, and strategic communications can drive this transformation. Learn how businesses, investors, and leaders can collaborate to build trust in AI, embrace calculated risks, and shape a future of innovation and prosperity.

The Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism 2025 Trends Report outlines how AI and technology are changing the media landscape. Here are my recommendations on how businesses and governments must adapt their communication to reach better and engage with stakeholders, and rebuild trust.

As AI transforms industries, people skills and strategic communications are essential for navigating disruption. The Future of Jobs Report 2025 highlights that leadership, adaptability, and stakeholder engagement will define success for companies leveraging AI to drive growth and trust.

Elon Musk’s political statements and attacks, are they his views, (most likely!) or tactics to safeguard his businesses and ventures (certainly!)?

Creating an entrepreneurial and innovation mindset in governments needs strategic thinking and critical stakeholder engagement if it is to unlock growth for nations and businesses. Martin Wold and Mariana Mazzucato share insights on what the future could be like if the public and private sectors learnt to better support each other.