What's Happening?
BRANDi and Companies, in collaboration with BiOST, Institute of Systematic Transformation, are organizing the 'FUTURE-READY ECONOMY 2026' forum on October 14, 2026, at NEX Hall, Siam Paragon, Bangkok. This event coincides with Thailand hosting the IMF–World
Bank Group Annual Meetings 2026, marking its return as host after 35 years. The forum, themed 'Designing Capital for the Future,' aims to bring together global economic leaders and policymakers to exchange perspectives on critical economic challenges and explore strategies for future capital design. Prominent figures such as Secretary-General Mathias Cormann of the OECD, Ms. Soohyun Kim, Regional Director of UNESCO, and Dr. Mahmoud Mohieldin, UN Special Envoy on Financing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, are expected to participate in discussions and leadership panels. The forum will address various global pressures, including geopolitical conflicts, climate crises, technological shifts driven by AI, demographic changes, and financial and livelihood pressures impacting governments, businesses, and communities.
Why It's Important?
The 'FUTURE-READY ECONOMY 2026' forum is significant as it gathers international leaders to redefine economic growth in a world facing multifaceted challenges. The discussions will move beyond traditional GDP-focused metrics to explore how capital can be designed to foster robust, equitable, and sustainable economies. The forum's focus on '5 Paths of Capital'—Capital for Security, Capital for People, Capital for Growth, Capital for Transition, and Capital for Resilience—highlights a comprehensive approach to economic development. This integrated perspective is crucial for addressing global issues like geopolitical instability, climate change, and social inequality, ensuring that economic strategies are inclusive and forward-looking. The insights and principles developed at this forum could influence international economic policies and investment strategies, promoting a more stable and sustainable global economic future.
What's Next?
Following the discussions on the '5 Paths of Capital,' the forum will conclude with the presentation of the 'Bangkok Principle for Future-ready Economy.' This principle is expected to be a key outcome of the event, offering a framework for designing economic systems that are stable, secure, competitive, and prepared for future challenges. The organizers encourage interested parties to register for the event, indicating that further details and confirmation will be provided. The outcomes of this forum, particularly the Bangkok Principle, could serve as a blueprint for policymakers and institutions worldwide, guiding their efforts to build resilient and sustainable economies. The event's timing, preceding the IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings, suggests that its conclusions may feed into broader international financial and development agendas.
Beyond the Headlines
The forum's emphasis on 'Designing Capital for the Future' and its '5 Paths of Capital' framework reflects a deeper shift in global economic thinking. It moves beyond purely financial considerations to integrate social, environmental, and governance factors into capital allocation and economic planning. This holistic approach acknowledges that sustainable growth cannot be achieved without addressing issues like human capital development, climate resilience, and equitable transitions. The participation of leaders from diverse international organizations underscores a growing recognition of the interconnectedness of global challenges and the need for collaborative solutions. The forum's focus on 'Leaving No Future Behind' suggests a commitment to inclusive growth that benefits all segments of society, aiming to prevent exacerbation of existing inequalities and foster a more just global economic order.
