Weekly Political Compass – Bespoke Business Development Political Risk Advisory This Week’s Focus In this edition, we examine India’s trade policy, while China is set to announce its annual GDP growth target, EU leaders will deliberate on military rearmament, and the U.S. tariff suspension on Mexican goods is set to expire. Global Snapshot India’s Trade Policy What’s the status of India-EU trade negotiations?On 28 February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met
Powerful factors are driving a resurgence in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), particularly in North America, yet dealmakers must still navigate considerable challenges. The global M&A landscape did not achieve the robust recovery that many anticipated in 2024. While performance improved—significantly in some regions—various pressures tempered global dealmaking, yielding moderate returns. Deal value increased by 12 percent to $3.4 trillion. Although some challenges have faded while new ones have emerged, the
Three years into Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine remains central to European security. While the country has demonstrated remarkable resilience, evolving battlefield conditions and uncertainty over U.S. military aid have prompted European leaders to reassess their defense priorities. Ukraine’s struggle is no longer seen as a distant conflict but as a direct challenge to Europe’s security, stability, and credibility. In response, European institutions, Member States, and key industry players are intensifying
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the software industry, with 94% of tech companies planning to introduce new AI-driven solutions. However, innovation alone is not enough—companies must implement effective monetization strategies to generate sustainable revenue. This article explores the best approaches to AI monetization and real-world examples of their implementation. A recent Global Software Study, which surveyed over 500 software executives, confirms the rapid expansion of AI adoption. As AI becomes
Strong Demand, but a Talent Gap Looms The business development landscape is evolving rapidly, with increasing demand for expert guidance as entrepreneurs and small businesses navigate an increasingly complex market. Bespoke Business Development is at the forefront of this shift, helping clients structure, launch, and scale their ventures effectively. However, despite this demand, the industry faces a looming shortage of qualified business consultants capable of delivering high-impact strategies at scale.
In today’s rapidly evolving global market, the challenges of digital transformation, cybersecurity, sustainability, and geopolitical uncertainty require a strategic response that is as unique as each organization. At Bespoke Business Development, we understand that every business faces its own set of challenges and opportunities. Our tailored approach combines insights from leading research—from McKinsey’s digital and sustainability thought leadership to Teneo’s expertise in risk management and geopolitical shifts—with our own deep
Foreword: The Global Year Ahead As the dust settles on a momentous U.S. election and the incoming administration takes shape, the geopolitical landscape for 2025 is already coming into focus. Against this backdrop, our team of analysts once again explores the critical global trends and regional hotspots demanding attention in the year ahead. From enduring macro-level dynamics to specific local flashpoints, where existing tensions may continue or new ones could
Introduction While U.S. regulators seem to be easing enforcement on misleading sustainability disclosures—evidenced by the SEC’s recent disbandment of its ESG enforcement task force—Canadian regulators are becoming more aggressive. Regulatory scrutiny of “greenwashing” has increased significantly in Canada. What was once an opportunity for Canadian companies to freely promote their ESG progress has now become a growing area of risk, as sustainability reporting faces heightened accountability. The recent enactment of
Section 01: Executive Summary This week, Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered Labour’s first budget in 14 years, kickstarting the age of big spending by government. The Labour Government embarked on a bold new strategy in this week’s Budget. Against a backdrop of low growth and lower fiscal revenues, Chancellor Rachel Reeves set out a Budget that significantly increases the tax burden on all businesses and many workers. However, her Budget lives
Complicated times demand great leaders. Here’s an overview of traits and practices required to succeed as a leader today and a look at the factory model that can help aspiring managers ascend. Leading a global organization in today’s fragmented world is difficult—perhaps more difficult than ever. Since the outbreak of COVID-19 and the acceleration of geopolitical tensions, leadership teams have faced an increasing number of uncertainties and disruptions. These include