Look Forward

S&P Global
  • 4.6 (17)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

Welcome to The Look Forward Podcast from S&P Global. In today's rapidly shifting markets, success depends on anticipating what's next. The professionals who excel are those who can spot emerging trends before they fully materialize. The Look Forward Podcast delivers exactly that—insights to help you prepare for tomorrow's opportunities and challenges. We bring you expert perspectives on macroeconomic trends, capital markets, energy transition, and global trade, with a sharp focus on what these developments mean for the decisions that will shape your tomorrow. This podcast connects you with S&P Global's Look Forward Council, bringing cutting-edge research on long-term trends and transformative market shifts. Together, we're committed to providing the forward-looking intelligence you need to navigate uncertainty with confidence.

  1. 1D AGO

    AI, Energy, and Geopolitics: Insights from Davos 2026

    Amid geopolitical friction, economic uncertainty, and rapid technological disruption, the World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting in Davos convenes global leaders around a "spirit of dialogue." In this episode of the Look Forward Podcast, host Molly sits down with S&P Global Ratings Chief Global Economist Paul Gruenwald and S&P Global Energy Chief Strategist Atul Arya, fresh to Switzerland, to unpack what mattered most—and what it signals for 2026.   Together, they explore how AI is "moving the macro needle" through a data-center investment boom, and whether the next phase will deliver the productivity gains markets are already pricing in. They also dig into AI's less-discussed constraint: power—from turbine shortages and transmission bottlenecks to rising electricity prices and the collision between hyperscalers' speed and the power sector's slower build cycle.   The conversation covers to energy markets and geopolitics, including why recent shocks haven't yet upended oil pricing, why the debate has shifted from energy transition to energy expansion, and how LNG and trade balances are becoming increasingly intertwined. Additionally, the interview covers how Davos attendees expressed attention to the erosion of trust in the global world order and why a more fragmented approach may become the status quo.   For more Look Forward content, please visit the Look Forward homepage.   More From Paul and Atul: Look Forward Journal: Data Center Frontiers The CERAWeek Podcast with Atul Arya Subscribe to Paul Gruenwald's "Essential Economics Newsletter" on Linkedin

    24 min

  2. 12/18/2025

    2025, A Year in Review

    As 2025 draws to a close, Andy Critchlow is joined by co-hosts Molly Mintz and Aries Poon to reflect on the Look Forward Podcast's 2025 conversations. From the persistence of inflation and the evolving role of central banks, to the rise of private credit and the profound impact of AI-driven data center investment, we dive into the macroeconomic, geopolitical, and sectoral shifts transforming global markets.  Packed with expert insights, global perspectives, and forward-looking analysis, this episode is your essential guide to this past year of S&P Global's essential intelligence.   Happy Holidays from the Look Forward Council.   Episodes Featured (In Order of Appearance) Navigating Uncertainty: Insights into the Global Economy (7/31/2025) Understanding Global Tensions: Geopolitics, Trade, and the Energy Transition (8/4/2025) Powering the Future: Data Centers at the Crossroads of AI and Sustainability (11/20/2025) Building Tomorrow: The Critical Role of Cement (9/5/2025)

    24 min

  3. 12/04/2025

    Emerging Payment Trends for 2026

    In this episode of the Look Forward Podcast, host Aries Poon is joined by Thea Fourie from S&P Global's Market Intelligence Division to explore three pivotal trends shaping the global payment landscape in 2026. They delve into the interoperability of domestic payment systems, the rise of BRICS alternatives to international payment frameworks, and the increasing adoption of stablecoins, particularly in emerging and frontier markets. Discover how these trends can enhance financial inclusion, facilitate cross-border payments, and address inflationary pressures. Join us for expert insights that will help you navigate the evolving financial landscape and prepare for tomorrow's opportunities.

    21 min

  4. 11/20/2025

    Powering the Future: Data Centers at the Crossroads of AI and Sustainability

    In this episode of the Look Forward Podcast, host Molly Mintz reconnects with the audience as she dives deep into the critical role of data centers in the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. Joined by experts Kelly Morgan and Brian Partridge from S&P Global's 451 Research and authors from our latest Look Forward Report, "Navigating the US data center power crunch: On-site solutions offer a faster path to power," the discussion explores the unprecedented demand for data center capacity fueled by generative AI and its implications for the U.S. economy. As data centers become the backbone of the digital economy, we examine the challenges they face, including energy consumption, sustainability goals, and the pressure on the power grid. Our experts share insights on the investment boom in digital infrastructure, the potential risks associated with capital intensity, and the innovative solutions being explored to meet the growing energy demands." Additionally, we look beyond U.S. borders to understand how regions like the Middle East are positioning themselves as emerging data center hubs. Tune in for a forward-looking conversation that highlights the transformative impact of data centers on global markets and the future of technology.

    32 min

  5. 11/18/2025

    Unlocking Africa's Potential: Navigating Credit Dynamics and Sustainable Growth

    In this episode of the Look Forward Podcast, our new rotating host Molly Mintz makes her debut to explore the dynamic landscape of Africa's economy with authors from out latest Look Forward Journal "Look Forward: Unlocking Africa" and S&P Global Rating's experts Roberto Sifron-Arevalo, Samira Mensah, and Elijah Oliveros Rosen. Discover how Africa's abundant natural resources and youthful demographics present unprecedented investment opportunities, while also facing challenges in infrastructure, debt sustainability, and climate change. Join us as we delve into the crucial role of credit ratings in enhancing financing strategies for sustainable development, and learn how domestic capital markets can drive economic growth. We also discuss the upcoming S&P Global Africa Summit, aimed at fostering dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders to address the continent's financial hurdles. Tune in for insights that will equip you to navigate the complexities of Africa's evolving markets and seize future opportunities!

    30 min

  6. 11/13/2025

    COP 30 Preview: Insights on Climate Action and Energy Transition

    In this episode of the Look Forward Podcast, host Andy Critchlow is joined by Lindsey Hall, Global Head of Thought Leadership at Sustainable One, and Eklavya Gupte, Head of Carbon News Reporting at S&P Global Commodity Insights. Together, they delve into the critical discussions surrounding COP 30, the "Davos of climate change." With the conference taking place in Brazil, the episode explores key themes such as carbon emissions reduction, the balance between economic development and sustainability, and the evolving role of private sector finance in climate adaptation. Tune in to gain insights on the geopolitical landscape, the significance of multilateralism, and the expectations for meaningful outcomes from this pivotal global gathering. For more from Lindsey and Eklavya, please check our their respective podcasts All Things Systainable (Lindsey Hall) Energy Evolution (Eklavya Gupte) Don't forget to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube for more insightful discussions from S&P Global's Look Forward Podcast!

    29 min

  7. 11/06/2025

    Decarbonizing Aviation: The Challenges and Opportunities in Sustainable Fuel Production

    In this episode of the Look Forward Podcast from S&P Global, host Andy Critchlow delves into the complex landscape of decarbonizing the aviation sector. Joined by experts Roman Kramarchuk and Ina Clarita from S&P Global Commodity Insights, the discussion highlights the critical challenges of reducing carbon emissions in aviation, including the rising demand for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and the high costs associated with their production. Listeners will gain insights into the current state of aviation emissions, the role of various feedstocks, and the fragmented policy environment impacting SAF adoption. The episode also explores the potential of emerging technologies, the importance of global cooperation in setting cohesive policies, and the implications for airlines and consumers as the industry strives for a more sustainable future. Tune in to understand how these factors will shape the aviation sector's transition towards net-zero emissions and what it means for the future of air travel. Don't forget to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube for more insightful discussions from S&P Global's Look Forward Podcast!

    35 min

  8. 10/30/2025

    IMF Insights: Economic Resilience and AI's Impact

    In this episode, host Andy Critchlow, Head of News at S&P Global Commodity Insights, is joined by Paul Gruenwald, Chief Economist at S&P Global Ratings. Together, they unpack the key takeaways from the recent IMF meetings, exploring themes of economic resilience amid tariff uncertainties, the shifting dynamics of global trade, and the implications of AI on future growth.

    23 min
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4.6
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Look Forward Podcast from S&P Global. In today's rapidly shifting markets, success depends on anticipating what's next. The professionals who excel are those who can spot emerging trends before they fully materialize. The Look Forward Podcast delivers exactly that—insights to help you prepare for tomorrow's opportunities and challenges. We bring you expert perspectives on macroeconomic trends, capital markets, energy transition, and global trade, with a sharp focus on what these developments mean for the decisions that will shape your tomorrow. This podcast connects you with S&P Global's Look Forward Council, bringing cutting-edge research on long-term trends and transformative market shifts. Together, we're committed to providing the forward-looking intelligence you need to navigate uncertainty with confidence.

Information

  • Channel
    S&P Global
  • Creator
    S&P Global
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2020 S&P Global. All rights reserved. https://www.spglobal.com/
  • Show Website
    Look Forward

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