Designing for the New Normal: The Second-Order Implications of Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz

Recent disruptions have highlighted vulnerabilities across global trade and supply chains, prompting business leaders to reassess the resilience of the systems that support their organizations.Resilience Reflections is a Flavors of Ambition mini-series from BCG that explores how recent disruptions are reshaping business strategy, supply chains, and operational resilience. Through conversations with BCG experts, the series examines practical lessons for leaders navigating an increasingly complex operating environment.In this first episode, BCG Managing Director and Senior Partner Rami Rafih introduces the themes that will shape the series. Drawing on his experience advising organizations on business strategy in a changing geopolitical landscape, Rami discusses how recent disruptions have affected global trade infrastructure and what these developments can mean for businesses and economies.The conversation explores which sectors have experienced the greatest disruption, how supply chain interdependencies can amplify operational impacts, and why recovery timelines differ significantly across industries. Rami also examines the structural changes already influencing global trade and supply chain strategy, regardless of when conditions stabilize.The episode concludes with perspectives on the factors shaping resilience today, the outlook for recovery across key sectors, and practical considerations for business leaders seeking to strengthen resilience and prepare for future disruption.For leaders looking to better understand how global developments are influencing regional transformation—and what it can take to build more resilient operations—this episode provides the starting point for the series.Links:Rami Rafih on LinkedInBCG Middle EastBCG Middle East | PodcastsHow Could the Strait of Hormuz Chokepoint Impact Future Business Dynamics?The Hormuz Strait: Which Sectors and Regions Are Impacted Most?When the Strait Closes, the Transition Opens: How the Middle East Conflict Could Reshape Maritime Fuel StrategyEmail Flavors of Ambition: [email protected]