Middle Powers, Markets and Strategic Autonomy: Stephanie Flanders

Hosted by Sam Gyimah

Episode 2 of the The Geopolitics of Business podcast, hosted by SG& Capital Partners, titled "Middle Powers, Markets and Strategic Autonomy: Stephanie Flanders" was published on February 20, 2026 and runs 37 minutes.

February 20, 2026 ·37m · The Geopolitics of Business

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Summary

In this episode of The Geopolitics of Business, Stephanie Flanders, Head of Economics and Government at Bloomberg, explores how the shift from globalisation to systemic geopolitical competition is reshaping markets, economic policy and corporate strategy. Drawing on decades of experience analysing financial crises, political shocks and global macro trends, Stephanie explains why politics has become the dominant economic risk — and why markets may be underestimating the long-term consequences of fragmentation. She discusses the breakdown of the post-war rules-based order, the transactional approach of major powers, and the strategic dilemmas facing so-called “middle powers” such as the UK. Stephanie examines the tension between resilience and efficiency, the impact of AI investment on market stability, the risks of low growth in the UK, and the rise of populism as both a political and economic force. She argues that in a world where deals are temporary and alliances fluid, leaders must prioritise strategic autonomy and supply chain resilience over short-term optimisation. 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 inquiries please email [email protected], and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email [email protected] 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&.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Description

In this episode of The Geopolitics of Business, Stephanie Flanders, Head of Economics and Government at Bloomberg, explores how the shift from globalisation to systemic geopolitical competition is reshaping markets, economic policy and corporate strategy. Drawing on decades of experience analysing financial crises, political shocks and global macro trends, Stephanie explains why politics has become the dominant economic risk — and why markets may be underestimating the long-term consequences of fragmentation.

She discusses the breakdown of the post-war rules-based order, the transactional approach of major powers, and the strategic dilemmas facing so-called “middle powers” such as the UK. Stephanie examines the tension between resilience and efficiency, the impact of AI investment on market stability, the risks of low growth in the UK, and the rise of populism as both a political and economic force. She argues that in a world where deals are temporary and alliances fluid, leaders must prioritise strategic autonomy and supply chain resilience over short-term optimisation.

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 inquiries please email [email protected], and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email [email protected]

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&.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.