Reflections from Davos 2026: A Business Perspective
The World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, founded in 1971, has evolved from a small gathering in a Swiss Alpine resort to a global platform for business and policy leaders. In 2025, over 3,000 leaders from 130+ countries attended, and I joined the 2026 edition to experience it firsthand—and partly to challenge my own preconceptions.
Why Attend?
Historically, I viewed Davos as a mix of networking, ego, and greenwashing, influenced by books like Confessions of a City Girl and frequently preparing/reviewing executive briefings. Yet, 2026 felt like a pivotal moment: rumors suggest this may be the last Davos in its unique and iconic location, with Larry Fink proposing alternatives like Dublin or Detroit. I therefore wanted to see if the event could transcend its reputation.
Key Takeaways for Business Leaders
1. Geopolitics: Beyond Consensus
Mark Carney’s speech stood out, framing the challenges for “middle countries” and advocating for coalitions of “fast movers” in climate and policy—rather than waiting for consensus. For businesses, this signals a shift: proactive collaboration may drive change faster than traditional diplomacy. As voters and consumers, our individual influence on geopolitical events can feel somewhat limited, but collective action in increasingly authoritarian contexts can amplify our impact.
2. The Hype Cycle: AI and Beyond
Climate discussions have waned over the past few years, replaced by AI’s dominance. Panels I listened to on post-fossil fuel economies were overshadowed by the sheer number of AI-driven growth narratives. Yet, a spontaneous audience cheer for “locally led AI” highlighted a desire for inclusive, bottom-up innovation. The cyclical nature of hype is clear, but I witnessed the call for ethical, context-sensitive technology resonating the most.
Protests—anti-war, anti-surveillance—were visible despite heavy security. This juxtaposition of dissent and elite networking was striking, maybe reminding attendees that public sentiment cannot be ignored.
3. Sustainability: Local Solutions, Global Impact
Climate wasn’t sidelined entirely. Sessions on post-fossil fuel opportunities gave real business examples of resilient banks in Bangladesh and youth-led agriculture in Nigeria. The message: technology must adapt to local cultures. Businesses can lead by integrating sustainability into core strategies, even amid political and media challenges.
Final Thoughts
Davos 2026 was more diverse and substantive than I expected. The mix of finance professionals, activists, and innovators—alongside the iconic Swiss setting—created a unique dynamic. Larry Fink’s call for greater accessibility is valid; the event could benefit from broader participation. Yet, for me the logistical charm (finance elites on slow trains through the snow, lunches at local supermarkets) adds to its allure.