The Middle East Conflict, Risk and Resilience: Lord Sedwill

The Middle East Conflict, Risk and Resilience: Lord Sedwill

Author: SG& Capital Partners April 10, 2026 Duration: 37:28

Hosted by Sam Gyimah 


In this episode of The Geopolitics of Business, Lord Sedwill — former Cabinet Secretary, National Security Adviser, and now Chair Rothschild & Co Saudi Arabia, examines how conflict in the Gulf is reshaping capital flows, supply chains, defence priorities and long-term business resilience. 


Drawing on experience at the highest levels of UK government and global finance, Lord Sedwill explains why geopolitics only becomes truly relevant to business when it hits geoeconomics. He argues that the current Gulf conflict is different from many previous geopolitical shocks because it directly affects confidence, trade routes, energy prices and inflation. 


The conversation explores why Gulf states are accelerating diversification away from oil, how sovereign wealth funds are shifting from exporters to importers of capital, and where reconstruction, AI infrastructure and defence innovation may create major investment opportunities. Lord Sedwill also sets out why boards need to move beyond abstract risk registers towards war gaming, contingency planning and genuine supply-chain visibility. 


For business leaders, the core message is clear: resilience is no longer the opposite of returns. It is the foundation of long-term value creation. 



Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners 

Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for TGOB Media Ltd in partnership with SG& Capital Partners Ltd 

Music composed by: Sophie Sirota 


For listener questions or business enquiries please email info@thegeopoliticsofbusiness.com, and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email info@sgand.com 


You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter 


Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 


 


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Behind every major market shift or investment thesis, there is often a political decision made in a distant capital. The Geopolitics of Business explores that critical intersection, moving beyond headlines to understand how power, policy, and profit collide. Host Sam Gyimah brings a rare perspective to these conversations, having operated at the highest levels in both finance and government as a former Wall Street financier and British Minister. Now leading the advisory firm SG& Capital Partners, he engages in direct, unfiltered dialogues with the global investors, corporate leaders, and policymakers who are directly shaping-and responding to-the world’s economic landscape. Each episode feels like a privileged briefing, unpacking the real-world consequences of geopolitical strategies on supply chains, capital allocation, and long-term business viability. This isn’t about abstract theory; it’s a practical examination of risk and opportunity, guided by those with firsthand experience. For anyone navigating today’s complex crosscurrents where a regulatory change or a trade agreement can redefine an entire industry, this podcast provides essential context and candid insight you won’t find elsewhere. Tune in for a masterclass in strategic thinking at the highest level.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 24

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