UBS On-Air: Market Moves Viewpoints with Burkhard Varnholt - A global markets podcast (Ep. 51)
Nov 13, 2025
This discussion features Burkhard Varnholt, a UBS commentator and author with deep insights into global markets and clean energy. Burkhard analyses the significant rise in renewables from 9% to 34% and the effects on fossil fuel demand. He highlights China's leadership role in clean energy and examines the implications of the U.S. absence from COP30. Key investment opportunities in clean energy indices and innovative solutions like space-based solar also take center stage, showcasing how investors can drive positive change.
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Clean Energy's Rapid Rise
- Clean energy rose from 9% to 34% of the global energy mix in 10 years and is now the largest electricity source.
- Fossil fuel demand is falling while clean-energy CapEx focuses on growth, not maintenance.
China Is Leading The Transition
- China drives the shift: it doubled clean-energy capacity versus the US and Europe combined and electrified its economy to ~32%.
- China manufactures 60–80% of solar panels and wind turbines, earning more from clean tech than US oil and gas exports.
Progress Has Slowed Warming But Risk Remains
- Progress cooled projected warming from ~4°C to ~2.5°C since 2015, though 2.5°C remains dangerously high.
- Significant gains have occurred, but further action is still required to meet safer targets.