Navigating Global Turbulence: How Current Events Shape Global Conglomerates In today's interconnected world, global conglomerates are constantly navigating a landscape shaped by a myriad of global events. From geopolitical tensions to economic fluctuations, technological advancements, and societal shifts, the impact of these events reverberates across industries and regions, influencing strategies, operations, and bottom lines. This presentation delves into the intricacies of these global events and their profound implications for global conglomerates. We explore the evolving geopolitical landscape, economic trends and financial market dynamics, disruptive technological advancements, societal and environmental factors, and their combined impact on conglomerates' strategic decision-making. Introduction: Understanding the Global Context (Approx. 300 words) The global landscape is marked by a complex interplay of events that significantly impact global conglomerates. Geopolitical tensions, economic shifts, technological disruptions, and societal changes are key drivers reshaping business environments worldwide. In this presentation, we delve deep into these global events and analyze how they shape the strategies and operations of global conglomerates. Geopolitical Landscape: Navigating Uncertain Terrain (Approx. 600 words) The geopolitical landscape is characterized by a myriad of challenges and opportunities for global conglomerates. From trade disputes and regional conflicts to diplomatic tensions and international agreements, the geopolitical arena is a key determinant of market access, regulatory environments, and investment opportunities. Conglomerates must navigate this terrain adeptly to mitigate risks and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Economic Trends and Financial Markets: Adapting to Market Dynamics (Approx. 700 words) Global economic trends and financial market dynamics play a pivotal role in shaping the strategies and performance of global conglomerates. Factors such as GDP growth, inflation rates, interest rate fluctuations, and currency movements influence investment decisions, risk management strategies, and market competitiveness. Conglomerates must stay attuned to these trends and adapt their approaches to thrive in dynamic economic environments. Technological Advancements and Disruptions: Harnessing Innovation for Growth (Approx. 600 words) Technological advancements and disruptions are reshaping industries and business models at an unprecedented pace. Innovations such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), and 5G networks offer immense potential for efficiency gains, market expansion, and competitive advantage. However, they also pose challenges such as cybersecurity threats and regulatory complexities that conglomerates must navigate effectively. Societal and Environmental Factors: Embracing Sustainability and Social Responsibility (Approx. 500 words) Societal and environmental factors

1. Qatar Frees
8 Navy
Veterans
GLOBAL KALEIDOSCOPE
YOUR GUIDE TO WORLD EVENTS & ITS IMPACT ON BUSINESS
FEBRUARY 16th – 23rd, 2024
India will build naval bases
on Minicoy and Agatti
islands of Lakshadweep

2. Table Of Content
• Asia's Economic Defense Amid Global Recession Threats
• Nvidia Surges Amid Chip Boom
• Geopolitical Challenges Shift Diesel Flows
• 2nd INDUS-X: Indo-US Bilateral Defence Summit
• Raisina Dialogue 2024
• 10th G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (FMM)
• Munich Security Conference
• State Visits
• Upcoming Events
• Bibliography

3. Asia's Economic Defense Amid Global Recession Threats
• In the face of a global economic downturn, India grapples with a
0.19% decline in exports (April 2023 to January 2024) and a 16%
drop in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
• Despite increased Foreign Institutional Investor (FII) inflows,
attracting investments remains challenging. However, resilient
domestic efforts are evident through sustained government
expenditure.
• Simultaneously, as nations navigate economic uncertainties, India
reinforces its defense along the LAC, converting the Barelvi
headquarters into the 18 Corps with 45,000 soldiers.
• In a parallel move, Australia commits AU$7.25 billion to enhance
its naval capabilities, doubling its warship fleet and acquiring
nuclear submarines via AUKUS.
• This collective defense stance underscores a regional commitment
to security amid the ongoing global economic turmoil, countering
China's growing military ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region.
UK, Japan Only Tip of Iceberg, 18 other Countries at Risk of Recession

4. Nvidia Surges Amid Chip Boom
Nvidia Shatters Expectations: Revenue Up By 265% Year-On-Year
• The chip and semiconductor market is experiencing significant
growth globally, with companies like Nvidia leading the way.
• U.S. restrictions on AI chip exports to China impede Nvidia,
causing a sales decline, while rapid expansion grapples with
meeting heightened chip demand, hinting at potential supply
chain strain.
• Rivalry intensifies with AMD and other tech giants entering the AI
chip sector, posing a significant challenge to Nvidia's market
dominance.
• Nvidia, despite export and supply chain issues, maintains industry
dominance, partnering with major tech players and securing its
position as the most traded stock on Wall Street.
Nvidia is America’s 3rd valuable company after Apple and Microsoft

5. Geopolitical Challenges Shift Diesel Flows
• As Houthi attacks disrupt European diesel shipments from India, flows
to the EU and UK hit their lowest since 2022.
• Rising freight costs due to Red Sea turmoil and unexpected Asian
refinery maintenance have redirected trade dynamics, favoring Asian
destinations.
• Notably, no diesel imports reached the EU in February's first two
weeks, while vessels like Marlin Sicily and Marlin La Plata signal a shift
to Rotterdam.
• Meanwhile, increased Indian diesel arrivals in Asian ports, including
Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh, underline the impact of geopolitical
challenges on global energy trade.
• Major oil companies reap $281bn profits since Ukraine invasion,
contrasting with widespread struggles for basic needs.
• While EU is criticizing India for buying oil from Russia amid its Ukraine
conflict, European states persist in procuring refined Russian crude
from India.
“This analysis shows that, regardless of
what happens on the frontlines, the
fossil fuel majors are the main winners
of the war in Ukraine.”
Global Witness’s senior fossil fuels
investigator, Patrick Galey
Top 5 Oil Companies Amass $250+ Billion Profits Post Russia's Ukraine Invasion
Global Witness’s senior fossil
fuels investigator, Patrick Galey

6. 2nd INDUS-X: Indo-US Bilateral Defence Summit
“Forces standing up to ‘bully’”, Giridhar Aramane, Defence Secretary of India
PM Modi with US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden
• The two-day bilateral defence cooperation meeting, INDUS-X,
initiated in Delhi, signifies a noteworthy development in India-US
collaboration on defence innovation.
• While being initially greeted with little fanfare, this US-India
defence technology initiative could prove crucial for developing
ways of deterring China.
• The event brings together stakeholders from both countries to
explore emerging opportunities and shape the future trajectory of
defence relations.
• Drawing parallels with the earlier Defence Trade and Technology
Initiative (DTTI), INDUS-X aims to break information silos, build
cooperation networks, and minimize bureaucratic and regulatory
obstacles between the defence ministries of India and the US.
• India and the US is at a pivotal juncture in the Indo-Pacific's history,
where its extensive oceans and vital waterways intersect global
commerce, geopolitics, and security.
“In navigating the complex dynamics of
this region, India and the United States
find themselves as key stakeholders,
bound by shared values and common
interests,”
Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane

7. 10th G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
MoS for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs V. Muraleedharan represented India at the 10th G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (FMM), a
crucial platform for international issue discussions among G20 Members. (February 21-22, 2024, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
Encapsulation:
• India supports Brazil's G20 focus on social inclusion, sustainable development, and global governance reforms.
• G20 Troika (India, Brazil, South Africa) maintains collaborative efforts under Brazil's Presidency.
• Brazil introduces initiatives like Women Empowerment Group and "Judiciary 20."
• Minister Muraleedharan strengthens India's diplomatic engagements in bilateral meetings during G20 FMM.
First Ministerial meeting under Brazil's Presidency

8. Visit of MoS V. Muraleedharan to Brazil | February 21-22, 2024
• During a session addressing 'G20's role in handling ongoing international tensions', MOS V.
Muraleedharan highlighted:
1. Theme 'Building a Just World & a Sustainable Planet' aligns with 'One Earth, One
Family, One Future'.
2. Urgent call for dialogue on Ukraine, advocating peaceful resolution.
3. India maintains support for a two-State solution in Israel-Palestine for lasting peace.
4. Strong global condemnation of terrorism, stressing the need for cooperation.
5. Caution against West Asia conflict escalation, highlighting containment importance.
6. Emphasis on high seas security, vital for international trade and stability.
7. G20's economic forum role stressed, urging focus on SDGs and climate change.
8. Necessity of constructive dialogue for global stability and progress emphasized.
MoS Muraleedharan represents India at
G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting
• MoS for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, met Uruguay's Foreign Minister Omar Paganini
at G20 in Rio, discussing cooperation in trade, investment, Ayurveda, and tourism.
• Both leaders explored opportunities to strengthen India-Uruguay ties across various
sectors during a fruitful meeting on the side-lines of the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting in
Rio.
MoS Muraleedharan with Uruguay's Foreign
Minister Omar Paganini
10th G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting

9. Raisina Dialogue 2024
2500+ attendees from 115+ countries
India’s Flagship Conference on Global Affairs | February 21st – 23rd, 2024 | New Delhi
"Raisina Dialogue 2024:
Strengthening partnership
with India should be
cornerstone of Europe's
foreign policy," Greek Prime
Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis
Inaugurated by PM Modi with Prime Minister of the Hellenic Republic
(Greece), H.E. Mr. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, as the chief guest. The foreign
ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Finland, and Liechtenstein also
arrived in Delhi to join the dialogue.
The focus was on six thematic pillars: Tech Frontiers, Peace with the
Planet, War & Peace, Decolonising Multilateralism, the 2030 Agenda,
and Defending Democracy.
Defence Collaboration: PM Modi and Greek PM Mitsotakis
strengthened ties by forming a Working Group to address challenges in
Defence, Cybersecurity, Counter-terrorism, and Maritime Security.
Indo-Greek - Indo-Pacific Partnership: PM Modi commended Greece's
Indo-Pacific role, endorsing their participation in the Indo-Pacific Oceans
Initiative. Both leaders emphasized diplomatic dispute resolution for
regional peace and stability.
75th Anniversary Collaboration Next Year: To highlight shared global
heritage in science and tech, affirming a commitment to strengthen ties
and explore new collaborations.
EAM Dr. Jaishankar with
Netherlands Foreign Minister,
Hanke Bruins Slot
*The theme of the event
EAM Dr. Jaishankar with
Foreign Minister of Bosnia &
Herzegovina, Dino Konakovic

10. • The conference effectively bolstered the rules-based international order,
forming an inclusive coalition to counter global revisionist tendencies.
• It addressed Europe's security role, new global order visions, and the security
implications of climate change.
• Building on the Munich Security Report 2024, the conference facilitated
dialogues on critical security challenges, explored citizens' global risk
perceptions, including analyses within G7 and BRICS nations via the Munich
Security Index 2024.
• The event enhanced transatlantic partnerships, fostered closer collaboration
with Global South nations, served as a platform for diplomatic initiatives, and
adapted to the changing security landscape by broadening thematic horizons
and expanding regional diversity.
Munich Security Conference - 2024
February 16th – 18th , Germany| Launch of the Munich Security Report (MSR) 2024 |Introduction to the Munich Security Index 2024
60 State heads and 85+ Government Officials
(L-R) Indian EAM S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Antony
Blinken, and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock
Jaishankar, Wang Yi Hold First Meeting in Over Six Months at
German Security Conference.
“India is smart enough to
have multiple options”
EAM Jaishankar hails
India's diplomatic
versatility

11. Munich Security Conference 2024
EAM Dr. Jaishankar with Foreign Minister
of Armenia, Ararat Mirzoyan
EAM Dr. Jaishankar with Palestinian
Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki
EAM Dr. interacting with the Munich
Young Leaders for 2024
EAM Dr. Jaishankar with Friedrich Merz
Party leader of the Christian Democratic Union
of Germany
EAM Dr. Jaishankar with German Foreign
and Security Policy Advisor Jens Plötner
EAM Dr. Jaishankar with Foreign Minister HH
Faisalbin Farhan of Saudi Arabia
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12. State Meetings
7th Meeting of the India-Japan Act East Forum
1. The India-Japan Act East Forum (AEF) aimed to develop
India's Northeastern Region and promote connectivity with
South-East Asia, established in 2017.
2. It focused on enhancing trade and logistics between India
and Bangladesh through the North East, with participation
from Central Government Ministries and State Governments.
3. The Forum covered sectors like connectivity, renewable
energy, urban development, skill development, healthcare,
tourism, and explored new areas of cooperation
Prime Minister of Greece’s visit to India
1. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited India from
February 21-22, 2024, at PM Modi's invitation, marking the
first bilateral Head of State/Government visit in 15 years.
2. The visit elevated relations to a 'Strategic Partnership,'
emphasizing shared cultural values, economic growth, and
collaboration in trade, investment, tourism, and culture.
3. Discussions included regional and global issues such as
counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, climate change, and
finalizing a mobility and migration partnership agreement to
strengthen people-to-people ties.
India-France strategic partnership
1. EAM S Jaishankar and French Senate Chairman Gerard
Larcher held discussions on the India-France strategic
partnership and global issues.
2. Larcher's visit from February 19-20 strengthened bilateral
ties, including parliamentary cooperation, with meetings with
Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar.
3. Discussions aimed to enhance cooperation between the
French Senate and India's Parliament, with a potential
dedicated agreement, including engagements with PM Modi
and business leaders in aerospace and defense sectors.
Dr. S. Jaishankar Elevates India-EU Relations
1. EAM Dr. S Jaishankar engaged with EU ambassadors in New
Delhi, thanking them for their support in strengthening India's
ties.
2. The visit, marked by a warm welcome, included insights
from the Munich Security Conference and key discussions on
regional and global issues, especially India-EU relations.
3. Focus extended to cybersecurity collaboration, aiming for a
free, open, and stable cyberspace, reaffirming the
commitment of both the EU and India.
State Visits

13. 7th Meeting of the India-Japan Act East Forum
• India-Japan Act East Forum (AEF) happened on February 19th, 2024
in New Delhi was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Mr. Vinay
Mohan Kwatra and Japanese Ambassador H.E. Mr. Hiroshi Suzuki.
• The Act East Forum, established in 2017 after discussions between
PM Narendra Modi and then Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, primarily
focuses on two key objectives:
- The development of the Northeastern Region of India
- Promoting connectivity within the region and with South-East Asia.
• Participants, including Central Government Ministries and State
Governments, reviewed the progress of cross-border initiatives
aimed at enhancing trade and logistics between India and
Bangladesh through the North East.
• The Forum's agenda spans diverse sectors like connectivity,
renewable energy, urban development, skill development,
healthcare, tourism, and explores new areas of cooperation.
Chaired by Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra and the
Ambassador of Japan to India, Hiroshi Suzuki
Established in 2014 following discussions between Prime
Minister Narendra Modi and former Prime Minister
Shinzo Abe.
Committed to fostering the growth of India's northeastern
region and facilitating connectivity within it and with
South-East Aisa.
‘India and Japan discuss connectivity between North Eastern region and South-East Asia’

14. State Visits: Prime Minister of Greece’s visit to India
• Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece visited India from
February 21-22, 2024, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra
Modi.
• The trip marked the first bilateral Head of State/Government visit
from Greece to India in 15 years, elevating the countries' relations to
a 'Strategic Partnership,' emphasizing shared cultural values,
economic growth, and collaboration in various sectors.
• Encapsulation: Focus was on ways to enhance cooperation in areas
such as trade, investment, tourism, and culture.
• The two leaders also discussed regional and global issues of mutual
interest, including counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and climate
change
• Held discussions on finalizing the mobility and migration partnership
agreement as soon as possible.
• This will help embolden people-to-people partnership between the
two nations.
“India, Greece looking at expanding economic engagement” Greek PM |
India, Greece agree to double trade by 2030
Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of the
Hellenic Republic, Kyriakos Mitsotakis in New Delhi on February
21, 2024. Wife of Mr. Mitsotakis Maria Eva Virginia Grabowski
“It's a matter of happiness" that India and Greece "are
heading towards doubling the bilateral trade by 2030“
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis

15. State Visits: India-France strategic partnership
• External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and French Senate Chairman
Gerard Larcher held fruitful discussions on the India-France strategic
partnership and global issues.
• Larcher, who led a delegation of five senators, visited India on
February 19 and 20, successfully strengthening bilateral ties and
parliamentary cooperation.
• The visit included meetings with Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar to
discuss strengthened parliamentary exchanges, economic and cultural
cooperation, and people-to-people ties.
• Discussions aimed to enhance cooperation and understanding
between the French Senate and India's Parliament, with a potential
dedicated agreement.
• Larcher called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and engaged with
business leaders from French companies that contributed to "Make in
India" and "Skill India" initiatives in the aerospace and defense
sectors.
French Senate, Gerard Larcher’s bilateral visit to India
EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar with Chairman of the French Senate, Gerard Larcher
France has emerged as one of India's top 11 foreign
investors, contributing a cumulative FDI stock of USD
10.54 billion from April 2000-March 2023
Recently, India and France have also agreed to use Unified
Payments Interface (UPI) in France
The sectors attracting the most FDI from France are
cement and gypsum products, drugs and pharmaceuticals,
industrial machinery, and automobiles

16. State Visits: Dr. S. Jaishankar Elevates India-EU Relations
• EAM Dr. S Jaishankar, engaged with EU ambassadors in New Delhi,
expressing gratitude for their support in bolstering India's ties.
• The visit was characterized by a warm welcome, with insights shared
from the Munich Security Conference.
• Key discussions on regional and global issues, including India-EU
relations, were highlighted on social media.
• The focus extended to cybersecurity, exploring collaboration on
security and policy aspects to ensure a free, open, and stable
cyberspace for innovation and economic growth, reaffirming the
commitment of both the EU and India.
Visit of EU Ambassadors to Delhi | 19th February, 2024
EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar with EU Ambassadors in New Delhi
The EU is India's third largest trading partner, with
bilateral trade reaching €88 billion in goods in 2021
Advancing Talks: Free Trade, Investment,
Geographical Indications agreements in progress.

17. Upcoming Events
1. Formulating a Care Economy Strategy for the Government of India
24 February 2024
Location: Ranchi
2. 13th Ministerial Conference of World Trade Organization
26 February – 29 February, 2024
Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
3. CII SR - The India Finance Forum 2024 Southern Region
28 February 2024
Location: Chennai
4. Indian Automotive Value Chain Summit Northern Region
1 March 2024
Location: Gurugram

18. Bibliography
1. UK, Japan Only Tip of Iceberg, 18 Other Countries At Risk Of Recession
2. Asia-Pacific Boosts Defenses Amid Global Economic Turmoil
3. 2nd INDUS-X: Indo-US Bilateral Defence Summit
4. Global Energy Shift
5. G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (FMM) in Rio de Janeiro
6. Raisina Dialogue 2024
7. Munich Security Conference
8. 7th Meeting of the India-Japan Act East Forum
9. State Visit of Prime Minister of Greece to India
10. French Senate, Gerard Larcher’s bilateral visit to India
11. Visit of EU Ambassadors to Delhi
12. Formulating a Care Economy Strategy for the Government of India I 24 Feb I Ranchi
13. 13th Ministerial Conference of World Trade Organization
14. CII SR - The India Finance Forum 2024 Southern Region
15. Indian Automotive Value Chain Summit Northern Region
THANK YOU

19. Asia-Pacific Boosts Defenses Amid Global Economic Turmoil
• China is expanding its western frontier infrastructure to enhance
military projection. Amid challenges, Chinese companies form
volunteer armies under Xi Jinping's control strategy.
• In this uncertain environment, India's relative economic resilience is
acknowledged, yet it remains susceptible to global headwinds.
• The Indian Army is reorganizing and transforming Barelvi
headquarters into the 18 Corps with 45,000 soldiers, focusing on
the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.
• Australia invests $7.25B to double warship fleet, acquires nuclear
submarines via AUKUS to counter China's naval ambitions, ensuring
regional stability.
• Despite economic uncertainties, both India and Australia prioritize
bolstering their defense capabilities, demonstrating a commitment
to addressing geopolitical challenges amidst the backdrop of a
potential global economic downturn.
Additional formations have
been deployed by India in all
three sectors since the
military confrontations with
China began in May 2020