- Brazil trucker strike: The massive strike of Brazilian truckers in summer 2018 was an example of income inequality backlash. It also showed the network impact of social media—the entire strike was organized on WhatsApp. The strike halted the Brazilian economy and had a global impact as soybeans, sugar, coffee and iron ore supplies were affected. Companies with a global presence, like Unilever, missed sales goals.
- Cambridge Analytica Data Scandal: When it came to light that the personally identifiable information of more than 80 million Facebook users had been used to influence the 2016 US elections, it shone a harsh light on tech companies’ growing use of data and their obligations to users. In the immediate aftermath, Facebook’s stock fell more than 15%. Future conversations about data privacy and protection at the government level will be framed by the Facebook scandal and other documented data breaches
- Trump Tariff Policy: US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose tariffs on a vast array of imports from China and other trade partners, as well as his rhetoric around the NAFTA renegotiations have escalated economic nationalism to new levels. The moves have ratcheted up international tensions and will ultimately end up costing US consumers.
Escalating Uncertainties: Up close
The future will be determined by those who are willing to reinvest, adapt and turn future threats into opportunities.