The Fin Dispatch from Davos: Trump hasn’t killed DEI (yet)
Jan 29, 2025
Hans van Leeuwen, Europe correspondent for The Australian Financial Review, reports from Davos, unraveling the impact of Trump 2.0 on global business dynamics. He discusses how CEOs are experiencing a blend of anxiety and optimism, especially regarding diversity programs amid political shifts. The declining presence of Australians at Davos is highlighted, alongside significant AI investments reshaping the corporate landscape. Van Leeuwen emphasizes the changing narrative around DEI and its future amidst the evolving geopolitical context.
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Davos As A Networking Microcosm
- Davos becomes a concentrated networking hub when 3,000 wealthy participants descend on a small ski town each January.
- Hans van Leeuwen described the bustle and purpose: panels, networking and testing the year's waters.
Australians Pull Back From Davos
- The Australian presence at Davos has noticeably shrunk after the pandemic and cost-of-living concerns kept ministers away this year.
- Hans named a few Australians still attending, including Andrew Forrest and former ministers now in international roles.
Trump Dominated Davos Conversations
- Trump's inauguration dominated conversations and conditioned attendees' outlooks throughout the week.
- Many delegates expressed 'cautious optimism' while acknowledging deep uncertainty about policy direction.