Rewiring Global Governance, State Capitalism and the Business of Trust: Professor Ngaire Woods

Rewiring Global Governance, State Capitalism and the Business of Trust: Professor Ngaire Woods

Author: SG& Capital Partners March 20, 2026 Duration: 49:54

In this episode of The Geopolitics of Business, Professor Ngaire Woods — founder of the Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford and board member of mining giant Rio Tinto — explores how the fracturing of the post-war rules-based order is forcing governments, institutions and businesses to rethink the foundations of global cooperation. Drawing on decades of experience advising governments and studying international institutions, Ngaire examines why the shift from multilateral governance to transactional power politics is creating dangerous instability — and what the rest of the world can do about it. 


She discusses the structural strain on international institutions, the limits of deal-by-deal diplomacy, and whether order is possible without American leadership. Ngaire examines the race for critical minerals, the rise of state capitalism, and what it means for companies to earn a popular licence to operate in an era of political volatility. She argues that the countries and businesses best positioned for the future are those that invest in trust, diversity of thinking and genuine partnerships — rather than retreating into groupthink or short-term transactionalism. 


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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The Geopolitics of Business moves beyond the headlines to examine how power, policy, and capital intersect in real time. Host Sam Gyimah brings a rare perspective to these conversations, shaped by his own journey from Wall Street finance and entrepreneurship to serving as a British Government Minister, and now leading the advisory and investment firm SG& Capital Partners. This background allows for unusually direct dialogue. Each episode features the individuals-global investors, sitting CEOs, and policymakers-who are directly navigating the consequences of major political decisions, from trade wars and sanctions to energy transitions and regulatory shifts. The discussions are frank and grounded in practical reality, focusing on the tangible impacts these forces have on strategy, risk, and opportunity. It’s a necessary listen for anyone who understands that today’s investment thesis or business plan is incomplete without a clear reading of the geopolitical landscape. This podcast doesn’t just analyze the news; it delves into the intentions and calculations behind it, offering a crucial layer of insight for decision-makers. You’ll hear firsthand accounts and strategic forecasts that connect the dots between the stateroom and the boardroom, providing a substantive look at the forces reshaping markets and industries.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 24

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