Afshin Molavi keynote speaker

Afshin Molavi is one of the world’s most compelling voices on the forces reshaping our global economy, geopolitics and society. A Senior Fellow at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, founder of the Emerging World newsletter, and columnist for Forbes, Molavi delivers dynamic, insight-rich keynotes that connect the dots between geopolitics, demographics, technology, trade, and the shifting balance of power.

A former journalist and development banker, his writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Economist, Businessweek, and Institutional Investor, and his reporting career includes roles at Reuters, The Washington Post, and the Financial Times. He has also served as a senior global advisor at Oxford Analytica, a staff member at the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation, and co-founder of the World Economy Roundtable  and emerge85 Lab, an initiative that explores change across Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East - home to 85% of the world’s population. He was also named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in Davos.

Molavi describes globalization as a "relentless and historic series of flows" and  "an evolving force shaping everyday life." As he often says, “Globalization isn’t somewhere distant—it’s in your cup, your car, your home, your meal.” From morning coffee to the technology in our pockets, he reveals how "everyday globalization"  shapes our lives.

Known for his approachable style, wit, and sharp insight, Molavi draws on history, literature, film—and even pop culture and sports—to make global issues vivid and accessible. From Wall Street to Main Street, from European boardrooms to  Asian and Middle Eastern cities, he has delivered impactful keynotes for corporations, associations, and investors worldwide—leaving audiences with a clearer sense of where the world is headed and how to prepare for what comes next.

From Dallas to Dubai, Atlanta to Amsterdam, and Los Angeles to London, he has delivered keynotes that bring data, storytelling, and foresight together in an engaging and actionable way.