Asia’s economic outlook 2027: Navigating growth, risk and uncertainty
Taimur Baig, Global CFO Network Honorary Advisor, and Chief Economist, DBS Bank
As the Asia Pacific enters another period of economic uncertainty, Finance leaders need a clear view of the forces shaping the region. In this session, Taimur Baig, Global CFO Network Honorary Advisor and Chief Economist at DBS Bank, will share his perspective on growth, inflation, policy direction and the economic trajectory heading into 2027,.Taimur will focus on the implications for CFOs, looking specifically at the issues including investment and cost management, as well as currency exposure and supply chain resilience. The session will provide a structured way to interpret macroeconomic signals, and help Finance leaders position their organisations for growth. Taimur is Chief Economist at DBS Bank, where he leads macroeconomic research and provides strategic insights across Asia and global markets. He previously held senior roles at the International Monetary Fund and Deutsche Bank, and is widely recognised for his analysis of emerging markets and policy trends, not to mention his popular podcast, Kopi Time.
The new operating environment for global business
Ziad Haider, Partner & Global Director of Geopolitics, McKisney & Company
As geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation, and technological competition reshape the global landscape, Finance leaders are being forced to rethink long-held assumptions about risk, growth, and capital allocation. In this session, we will examine how politics is influencing trade flows, supply chains, and investment decisions, with a particular focus on the implications for the Asia Pacific operations of multinationals. The discussion will explore what these structural shifts mean in practice, and how CFOs can position their organisations to remain resilient while still capturing opportunity. Joining us for this session is Ziad Haider, Partner at McKinsey & Company and Global Director of the firm’s Geopolitics team. Ziad advises leading corporations and public institutions on geopolitical risk, global strategy, and the evolving relationship between business and government. Prior to joining McKinsey, he held senior roles at the US State Department, where he worked on economic and security policy. Drawing on McKinsey’s latest research and his own advisory work, Ziad will provide a clear framework for understanding today’s geopolitical environment and its practical implications for Finance.
Looking forward: driving success in 2027
Facilitated workshop and panel discussion led by Global CFO Network Facilitator Balvinder Sidhu
The planning cycle is complete and budgets are set, but what will actually determine success in 2027? In this facilitated workshop, CFOs will draw on their own experience, alongside that of their peers, to examine what it will take to deliver strong business performance in the year ahead. The session will combine structured discussion with a short, informal panel, focusing on the practical actions Finance leaders can take as conditions evolve. We will examine the economic and operational pressures facing organisations, identify the most important opportunities, and consider how risks can be managed in a more uncertain environment.
Members may attend with a member of their Finance team. Luncheon and light refreshments will be served.