Breaking: CEOE Launches Geo-Strategy Program as Geopolitics Reshapes Business
Madrid, Spain – October 21, 2025 – In a move signaling a significant shift in how Spanish businesses are approaching risk and opportunity, the CEOE (Spanish Confederation of Employers and Industries) today announced the launch of a dedicated program focused on geo-strategy for enterprises. This initiative comes at a time when global political instability is increasingly impacting bottom lines, supply chains, and long-term investment decisions. This is a breaking news development for businesses operating in, or connected to, the Spanish market.
Navigating the New Geopolitical Landscape
The program, unveiled this morning at the CEOE headquarters in Madrid, aims to equip business leaders with the tools and knowledge to understand and respond to the complex interplay between geopolitics and commercial strategy. Carlos Bastarreche, former Ambassador of Spain and now Senior Advisor to the Security and Defense Commission of CEOE, delivered a keynote address emphasizing that geopolitical factors are no longer peripheral concerns, but central drivers of business decisions. His presentation, titled “A reflection on how and why geopolitics is a new factor in business decisions,” highlighted the need for proactive risk assessment and scenario planning in a world marked by increasing uncertainty.
Key Speakers and Program Highlights
The launch event featured a stellar lineup of speakers, including José Alberto González-Ruiz, General Secretary of the CEOE, and Jesus Sanchez Bargos, President & CEO of Thales Spain – a major sponsor of the program. Ana Isabel Pereda, Expansion Director, also contributed to the discussions. The program itself, academically directed by Aranzazu Narbona, will delve into the intricacies of global power dynamics, emerging threats, and the implications for businesses across various sectors.
Thales Spain’s involvement is particularly noteworthy. As a global leader in aerospace, defense, and security, Thales is uniquely positioned to understand the intersection of technology, geopolitics, and business resilience. Their sponsorship underscores the growing recognition that strategic foresight is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in today’s volatile world. This isn’t just about avoiding risks; it’s about identifying opportunities that arise from shifts in the global order.
Why Geopolitics Matters to Your Business – And What You Can Do Now
For years, businesses could largely focus on market forces and internal efficiencies. That era is over. Events like the war in Ukraine, escalating tensions in the South China Sea, and the rise of economic nationalism have demonstrated the profound impact of geopolitical events on supply chains, energy prices, and consumer confidence. Ignoring these factors is no longer an option.
Here are a few immediate steps businesses can take to enhance their geopolitical preparedness:
- Conduct a Geopolitical Risk Assessment: Identify potential threats and opportunities specific to your industry and geographic footprint.
- Diversify Supply Chains: Reduce reliance on single sources, particularly those located in politically unstable regions.
- Scenario Planning: Develop contingency plans for various geopolitical scenarios, such as trade wars, sanctions, or political upheaval.
- Stay Informed: Monitor global events and analyze their potential impact on your business.
Networking and Future Access
Following the formal presentations, attendees participated in a networking session, fostering connections and knowledge sharing. The event was offered free of charge upon registration, and a streaming option was available, extending its reach beyond Madrid. The CEOE Campus, in collaboration with Business School Expansion, is clearly aiming to position itself as a leading resource for businesses navigating the complexities of the 21st century.
The launch of this geo-strategy program represents a proactive step by the CEOE to empower Spanish businesses in a rapidly changing world. By prioritizing geopolitical awareness and strategic planning, companies can not only mitigate risks but also unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation. For those seeking to future-proof their organizations, understanding the interplay between geopolitics and business is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. Register for updates and future programs at https://ceoecampus.es/jornada/presentacion-geoestrategia-empresarial/ and stay ahead of the curve.
