“New Geopolitics —Expert Advice—”: Behind these headlines, a square painting hanging in a grey wall features three flags, respectively from the United States, the European Union and the Russian Federation, in their respective large flagpoles. The flags are in space. Behind them, one can see one part of the Earth’s Northern Hemisphere and a rising sun. A satellite can be seen too. Concept, design, and prompts: Elisa Bach / Casals’Company · Background picture generated by DALL-E.
Concept and design: Elisa Bach / Casals’Company · Background picture generated by DALL-E following an idea and prompts by Elisa Bach

Navigating the Geopolitical Landscape: Why Expert Advice is Crucial in Uncertain Times

Adam Casals
5 min readFeb 19, 2025

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As I tell my Clients: now, more than ever, the guidance of geopolitical experts is not just an asset but a necessity for thriving in a world of constant change. By integrating geopolitical insights into their strategic planning, companies and organizations can better navigate the complexities of the global landscape and position themselves for long-term success, lasting growth and stability.

VIENNA / BARCELONA, 19.02.2025 / Adam Casals

In an era marked by rapid geopolitical shifts, the need for expert guidance has never been more critical. The traditional boundaries between geopolitics and economics have blurred. For corporations, institutional investors, and governments alike, the risks — and rewards — of these changes are remarkable. As a senior geopolitics expert, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that global political dynamics can have on the economy.

One recent development that underscores the necessity of expert insight is the statement made by US Secretary of State, Mr Marco Rubio, in Riyadh. According to The Guardian, Mr Rubio announced that Moscow and Washington would explore geopolitical and economic cooperation once the war in Ukraine reaches an acceptable conclusion. This marks a significant departure from the Biden administration’s previous stance of isolating Moscow.

Mr Rubio’s statement highlights the potential for a dramatic shift in international relations: “Beginning to engage in identifying the extraordinary opportunities that exist, should this conflict come to an acceptable end, the credible opportunities that exist to partner with the Russians geopolitically, on issues of common interest, and frankly economically, on issues that hopefully will be good for the world and will also improve our relations in the long term between these two important countries.”

His vision — contingent on an acceptable resolution to the conflict in Ukraine — underscores the potential for a dramatic realignment of alliances and economic cooperation.

Mr Rubio is attending the press after the US-Russian Summit in Ryhadh · Credits Picture Mr Marco Rubio in Saudi Arabia: The Guardian via YouTube · Credits background picture: The New York Times via GoDaddy Studio / Unsplash / Pixabay.
Credits Picture Mr Marco Rubio in Saudi Arabia: The Guardian via YouTube · Credits background picture: The New York Times via GoDaddy Studio / Unsplash / Pixabay

The Hypothetical Geopolitical Shift

At its core, Mr Rubio’s proposal points to a potential thaw between Washington and Moscow — a scenario that, if realised, could recalibrate global power structures.

The implications of such a partnership are vast. Geopolitically, it could reshape global alliances and influence international policy-making. Economically, it opens doors for trade, investment, and technological cooperation. For corporations in the USA, and the European Union, this could mean access to new markets, resources, and collaborative ventures.

However, economic opportunities and risks should be evaluated as a whole. New competitive pressures, together with regulatory uncertainties, might arise.

Strategic reorientation might become an imperative, forcing multinational corporations, and organizations, to reassess their long-term strategies. Markets previously shrouded in geopolitical tension might suddenly become arenas for cooperative growth, while other regions could see intensified rivalries. Some uncertainty factors around a lasting peace might revive the potential for conflict in the mid-term, whether in Ukraine, or in other countries close to Russia.

The regulatory and policy impact should also be taken into account: In continental Europe and in the UK, provided that old sanctions and barriers are re-evaluated and new frameworks emerge to facilitate transnational collaboration, the tourism and hospitality industries, together with real estate investments, among others, might be increased through the influx of Russian capital. On the other side, as Europe would be expected to participate in the framework granting an “acceptable end” to the Ukraine conflict, this would undoubtedly mean an increase in defence, security and cybersecurity spending, as well as other areas. More pressure to foster the innovation landscape should be another outcome to be expected.

Some transition scenarios should be analysed too: for example, the prospect of the United States and Russia coming to agreements, including sanctions being withdrawn, while the EU, and possibly the UK, still reinforce them.

It is crucial to stress that this entire scenario is hypothetical. The “extraordinary opportunities” Mr Rubio envisions hinge entirely on a peaceful and acceptable resolution to the conflict in Ukraine — a prerequisite that remains distant and uncertain. Yet, even as we await these developments, the message is clear: our times demand agile, forward-thinking strategies that incorporate geopolitical insight at the highest levels of decision-making.

The Strategic and Tactical Advantage

In an era defined by out-of-the-box challenges and unprecedented uncertainties, the integration of senior geopolitical advisers into corporate boards is not a luxury — it is a strategic imperative. Among other assets, these senior experts provide:

· Early Warning Systems: Advanced analysis of geopolitical risks enables companies to anticipate market disruptions and policy shifts, allowing for proactive rather than reactive strategies.

· Informed Decision-Making: With comprehensive insights into the geopolitical undercurrents that shape global trade, finance, and technology, boards can craft strategies that mitigate risks and capitalise on emerging opportunities.

· Enhanced Global Positioning: Firms with a deep understanding of international relations are better positioned to navigate complex regulatory environments and capitalise on new partnerships and market openings.

Geopolitical experts bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that can help corporations anticipate and mitigate risks, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions. These experienced advisors bring a deep understanding of global dynamics, ensuring that businesses are well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities while mitigating risks, while helping ensure resilient, future-proof strategies.

By integrating geopolitical insights into their strategic planning, companies and organizations can better navigate the complexities of the global landscape and position themselves for long-term success.

Now, more than ever, the guidance of geopolitical experts is not just an asset but a necessity for thriving in a world of constant change. The future is uncertain, but with the right expertise, you can turn geopolitical challenges into opportunities for lasting growth and stability.

© Copyright Adam Casals, 2025. All rights reserved. Todos los derechos reservados. Our contents disclaimer policy applies. We are adhered to the Code of Ethics of the Society of Professional Journalism. | Instagram & Threads | BlueSky | ’X’ | LinkedIn | Scoop.it! | Other links on Linktr.ee

About Adam Casals

Adam Casals is a senior expert in geopolitics and international relations who provides consultancy services to public organizations, corporations, and international bodies. He is a regular contributor to media outlets in Spain and abroad.

Three pictures display Mr Adam Casals in three different business environments.
Credits pictures: Barbara Metzl, Kety Cáceres. Design: Elisa Bach / Casals’Company

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Adam Casals
Adam Casals

Written by Adam Casals

CEO, Senior Global Affairs Advisor, Author | Fmr Envoy of the Catalan Gov to Austria & Central Europe | Vienna · Geneva · Madrid · Barcelona | adamcasals.com

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