In the second installment of “Ripped from the Headlines with Andrea Bonime-Blanc,” we dive into major global shifts currently reshaping international relations and economic dynamics.
Welcome to our second issue of “Ripped from the Headlines with Andrea Bonime-Blanc” a collaboration between Athena Alliance and GEC Risk Advisory in which we summarize without attribution some of the learnings and take-aways from a a headline news story of great significance to our members discussed at our monthly “Ripped from the Headlines” Salons and which we share here for all to benefit from.
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At the beginning of our March 2025 Salon, I presented a 20-minute curated overview of major global shifts currently reshaping international relations and economic dynamics. These developments reflect a significant departure from long-established U.S. diplomatic norms, with the Trump Administration signaling changes in its approach to traditional allies, competitors, and geopolitical rivals.
The discussion focused on the emerging contours of a potential “tripolar” world (U.S., China, Russia), and the implications for global power dynamics, international alliances, conflicts, global health initiatives, and humanitarian aid. I invited participants to explore how businesses can prepare for these geopolitical shifts—such as evolving trade policies, supply chain vulnerabilities, and legal uncertainties.
Topics included the administration’s changing posture toward international aid and media diplomacy, adjustments in U.S. relationships with allies such as Canada, Japan, and EU member states, and the broader impact of U.S. policy stances on the war in Ukraine. These developments, if sustained, could carry wide-ranging and unpredictable consequences for global economic and political stability.
These are some of the reliable news sources we reviewed as part of my presentation and our discussion:
The salon participants discussed the challenges businesses, nonprofits and other organizations face amid these abrupt, tectonic changes in the long-standing geopolitical order. The discussion emphasized the importance of scenario planning and the vulnerabilities of businesses under these new dynamics. We also addressed the impact of recent political and economic changes on various sectors, the challenges faced by vulnerable communities, and the need for ongoing support and dialogue around these fast moving, often jarring developments.
We discussed the challenges of dealing with rapid changes in business, including supply chain disruptions and customer shifts. Participants suggested that executives and board members should prepare for these changes by diversifying their supply chains, understanding their risks and making more informed strategic decisions. Several members agreed, emphasizing the importance of scenario planning and not making assumptions about the future. They also noted that the current situation is faster and more intense than previous crises, but that businesses have learned from past crises like the pandemic and can and should adapt to the new reality.
Another point of discussion was the importance of scenario planning and considering even “absurd” scenarios in business. Participants emphasized the need for boards to be involved in crisis management and communications, as the world has entered a permanent state of crisis and risk. Participants also highlighted the importance of identifying indicators and reading news differently to prepare for potential scenarios. Understanding cash burn is crucial in such scenarios as well.
Participants discussed potential risks to businesses in politically volatile environments, including concerns about nationalization, price controls, regulatory retaliation, and pressure on corporate leaders. They also referenced recent statements suggesting the Trump Administration may deprioritize enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), raising questions about the future of anti-corruption standards. Participants emphasized the importance of operating under the assumption that rule of law remains intact, while also recognizing the heightened concerns among CEOs about governance, compliance, and ethical leadership in a shifting political climate.
Participants also discussed the impact of recent political and economic changes on various sectors, including education and non-profit organizations. They expressed concerns about the potential effects of these changes on society, particularly in relation to education and the treatment of vulnerable populations. The conversation also touched on the challenges faced by non-profit organizations due to new policies and the need for self-sufficiency. Participants reviewed the importance of maintaining a positive company culture and supporting employees during these uncertain times.
Several participants shared their experiences with the challenges faced by vulnerable communities in this new political context highlighting the need for self-sufficiency, a return to core values, and the importance of unity in response to the rising influence of far-right political movements.
Plan for Uncertainty: Boards and executives should conduct scenario planning—including extreme cases—and assess cash burn under crisis conditions. Staying current on geopolitical shifts is essential.
Build Operational Resilience: Continuously evaluate and diversify supply chains. Maintain strong compliance functions despite shifts in regulatory enforcement.
Reinforce Culture and Values: Leadership should uphold core values, foster positive culture, and address employee concerns amid societal change. Strengthen Nonprofit Sustainability: U.S.-based nonprofits should seek alternative funding and focus on long-term self-sufficiency.
Align Values with Strategy: Boards should regularly review how to preserve mission and values amid ideological and societal pressures.
Finally, here’s a question for all of us to ponder: Geopolitical tectonic shifts or geopolitical ruptures?
© Athena Alliance 2025
