2050 Investors — Economic and markets megatrends, ahead of 2050’s global sustainability targets

Europe, once the driving force of global progress, gave birth to the Industrial Revolution, Enlightenment ideals, innovative scientific discoveries, and a cultural renaissance that shaped modern civilization. However, today, amid trade wars, geopolitical crises and industrial and technological advancements, Europe finds itself at a critical crossroads. In response to these disruptions in the global order, the European Union has announced bold investment plans in infrastructure and defence spending. But could this moment also mark the beginning of a financial renaissance, or does Europe risk falling further behind in the global race ? In this episode of 2050 Investors, Kokou Agbo-Bloua, Head of Economics, Cross-Asset & Quant Research at Societe Generale, explores the history of the European Union, its economic challenges, its remarkable resilience in emerging stronger from crises. Kokou contrasts the “European Dream” with the “American Dream”, shedding light on their respective strengths and weaknesses: individualism versus community, economic growth versus sustainability, and shareholder capitalism versus stakeholder capitalism. Later in the episode, Kokou is joined by Anne-Christine Champion, Co-Head of Global Banking and Investor Solutions at Societe Generale, for an engaging discussion about the structural challenges facing Europe. Together, they analyse the strategic wake-up call issued in Draghi’s report, examining key areas such as fragmented financial markets, weak stock market culture, underutilization of €14 trillion in household savings, and regulatory complexities. Finally, they examine how solutions like advancing the Savings and Investments Union (SIU), deepening the integration of capital markets, developing securitization markets, and promoting financial education can revive the European project. This episode offers a thought-provoking examination of Europe’s potential to transform challenges into opportunities and reclaim its position as a global leader in financial markets.About this showWelcome to 2050 Investors, your monthly guide to understanding the intricate connections between finance, globalisation, and ESG.Join host Kokou Agbo-Bloua, Head of Economics, Cross-Asset & Quant Research at Societe Generale, for an exploration of the economic and market megatrends shaping the present and future, and how these trends might influence our progress to meeting 2050’s challenging global sustainability targets.In each episode, Kokou deep-dives into the events impacting the economy, financial markets, the planet, and society. Through a magical blend of personal anecdotes, in-depth research and narratives overlaid with music, sound effects, and pop culture references, there’s certainly something for everyone.If you like 2050 Investors, please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support will help us spread the word and reach new audiences. If you’re seeking a brief and entertaining overview of market-related topics and their business and societal implications, subscribe now to stay informed!CreditsPresenter & Writer: Kokou Agbo-Bloua. Editors: Jovaney Ashman, Jennifer Krumm, Louis Trouslard.Production Designer: Emmanuel Minelle, Radio K7 Creative. Executive Producer : Fanny Giniès. Sound Director: Marc Valenduc. Music: Emmanuel d’Orlando. Graphic Design: Cédric Cazaly.Whilst the following podcast discusses the financial markets, it does not recommend any particular investment decision. If you are unsure of the merits of any investment decision, please seek professional advice.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Think about the last advert you saw. Was it the first or the 100th time you saw it? Today, the average person sees around 5,000 to 10,000 ads a day - a significant jump from the 500 ads a day in the 1970s. So, with all these ads - from social media to cable TV - vying for our attention, it's time for a reckoning. In this episode of 2050 Investors, we ask: has advertising been a force for good, or has it contributed to patterns of over-consumption? Join host Kokou Agbo-Bloua on a journey through the fascinating world of advertising, exploring its evolution from ancient practices to modern strategies that shape consumer behaviour and cultural identity. Kokou also examines the rapid growth of this multi-billion-dollar industry, its future amid rapid developments in AI and, of course, the pros and cons of an industry credited with creating some of the world's most iconic slogans, jingles and moments. Later in the episode, Kokou welcomes guest Thomas Kolster, a leading marketing and sustainability expert and author of Goodvertising. Thomas shares his unique insights on how advertising can shift from a consumer-driven model to a purpose-driven one, emphasising the importance of aligning brand values with consumer ethics. He discusses the challenges brands face in distinguishing genuine efforts from greenwashing and how to authentically engage with socially conscious consumers. There's certainly something for everyone in this episode!About this showWelcome to 2050 Investors, your monthly guide to understanding the intricate connections between finance, globalisation, and ESG.Join host Kokou Agbo-Bloua, Head of Economics, Cross-Asset & Quant Research at Societe Generale, for an exploration of the economic and market megatrends shaping the present and future, and how these trends might influence our progress to meeting 2050’s challenging global sustainability targets.In each episode, Kokou deep-dives into the events impacting the economy, financial markets, the planet, and society. Through a magical blend of personal anecdotes, in-depth research and narratives overlaid with music, sound effects, and pop culture references, there’s certainly something for everyone.Kokou also interviews industry-leading experts, personalities, entrepreneurs and even Nobel prize winners! You will learn from the best on a wide range of subjects on current affairs, market shifts, and economic developments.If you like 2050 Investors, please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support will help us spread the word and reach new audiences. If you’re seeking a brief and entertaining overview of market-related topics and their business and societal implications, subscribe now to stay informed!Previous episodes of 2050 Investors have explored ESG, climate change, AI, greenflation, globalization, plastic pollution, food, healthcare, biodiversity and more.CreditsPresenter & Writer: Kokou Agbo-Bloua. Editors: Jovaney Ashman, Jennifer Krumm, Louis Trouslard.Production Designer: Emmanuel Minelle, Radio K7 Creative. Executive Producer : Fanny Giniès. Sound Director: Marc Valenduc. Music: Emmanuel d’Orlando. Graphic Design: Cédric Cazaly.Whilst the following podcast discusses the financial markets, it does not recommend any particular investment decision. If you are unsure of the merits of any investment decision, please seek professional advice.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How did the banking system evolve from a simple bench—the very origin of the word “bank”—into the sophisticated institutions that drive the global economy?Banks are more than just institutions. With over 4,000 years of history, they have played a pivotal role in powering industrial revolutions, transforming dreams into reality, and adapting to the evolving needs of clients across generations. From economic booms to busts, they have stood the test of time, channeling funding like the lifeblood of the economy and serving as critical cogs in the machinery of society. Banks have turned the alchemy of compound interest—Einstein’s “8th wonder of the world”—into a driving force behind economic growth.In this episode of 2050 Investors, Kokou Agbo-Bloua dives into the essential role of banks and the foundations of the global banking system. Through his analysis, he explores the power of compound interest, the history of banking and the evolution of business models and regulatory frameworks. Highlighting their role as financial intermediaries, Kokou unpacks how they contribute to societal and economic progress through fractional reserve banking.Later in the episode, Kokou interviews Slawomir Krupa, as the bank marks its 160th anniversary. Slawomir reflects on how Societe Generale has remained true to its original mission of combining innovation with strength in its business model. He discusses the bank’s focus on sustainability and responsibility, emphasizing its vital role in financing the economy, supporting transformational projects, and offering strategic advice to clients to drive these developments. He also shares insights on how climate change and AI are driving institutions to reinvent themselves.This episode is a compelling exploration of the past, present, and future of banking, offering fresh insights into how this age-old institution continues to influence our lives and economies.About this showWelcome to 2050 Investors, your monthly guide to understanding the intricate connections between finance, globalisation, and ESG. Join host Kokou Agbo-Bloua, Head of Economics, Cross-Asset & Quant Research at Societe Generale, for an exploration of the economic and market megatrends shaping the present and future, and how these trends might influence our progress to meeting 2050’s challenging global sustainability targets. If you like 2050 Investors, please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support will help us spread the word and reach new audiences. If you’re seeking a brief and entertaining overview of market-related topics and their business and societal implications, subscribe now to stay informed! Previous episodes of 2050 Investors have explored ESG, climate change, AI, greenflation, globalization, plastic pollution, food, healthcare, biodiversity and more. CreditsPresenter & Writer: Kokou Agbo-Bloua. Editors: Jovaney Ashman, Jennifer Krumm, Vincent Nickelsen, Louis Trouslard.Production Designer: Emmanuel Minelle, Radio K7 Creative. Executive Producer : Fanny Giniès. Sound Director: Marc Valenduc. Music: Emmanuel d’Orlando. Graphic Design: Cédric Cazaly. Whilst the following podcast discusses the financial markets, it does not recommend any particular investment decision. If you are unsure of the merits of any investment decision, please seek professional advice.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Part 2 of the episode. We recommend you listen to Part 1 if you haven't already.What really drives happiness in the 21st century? The UN designates March 20 as “International Day of Happiness” to celebrate the importance of happiness and well-being as “universal goals and aspirations in the lives of human beings worldwide and in public policy objectives".Join Kokou Agbo-Bloua as he delves into the dynamics of happiness economics and the pursuit of genuine well-being in today's globalized world. Kokou questions the conventional metrics of success and prosperity, pondering whether the path to true happiness lies beyond material wealth and economic growth. Could sustainability, ESG principles, and ethical finance pave the way for a more meaningful existence, transcending traditional measures of prosperity?Through an engaging discussion with esteemed guest Claudia Senik, professor at the Paris School of Economics, Kokou confronts the pressing issues of intergenerational equity, societal well-being, and the imperative to balance present gratification with future sustainability.Delving into the Bhutanese philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), we discover a holistic approach to societal progress that transcends mere economic indicators, emphasizing the importance of cultural, environmental, and psychological well-being. As we contemplate the future landscape of happiness amidst the challenges of climate change and socio-economic disparities, we seek to redefine prosperity in terms of collective welfare and sustainable flourishing.Ultimately, this episode serves as a poignant reminder that true happiness is not merely a fleeting emotion but a conscious pursuit of harmony, purpose, and interconnectedness. Join us to unlock the keys to lasting fulfillment.About this showWelcome to 2050 Investors your monthly guide to understanding the intricate connections between finance, globalisation, and ESG.Join host Kokou Agbo-Bloua, Head of Economics, Cross-Asset & Quant Research at Societe Generale, for an investigation of the economic and market megatrends shaping the present and future, and how these trends might influence our progress to meeting 2050’s challenging global sustainability targets.In each episode, Kokou deep dives into the events impacting the economy, financial markets, the planet, and society. Through a magical blend of personal anecdotes, in-depth research and narratives overlaid with music, sound effects, and pop culture references, there’s certainly something for everyone.Kokou also interviews industry-leading experts, personalities, entrepreneurs and even Nobel prize winners! You will learn from the best on a wide range of subjects on current affairs, market shifts, and economic developments.If you like 2050 Investors, please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support will help us spread the word and reach new audiences. If you’re seeking a brief and entertaining overview of market-related topics and their business and societal implications, subscribe now to stay informed!Previous episodes of 2050 Investors have explored ESG-influenced financial assets, climate change, AI, greenflation, smart cities, globalization, plastic pollution, food, health care, biodiversity, the energy transition, and more.CreditsPresenter & Writer: Kokou Agbo-Bloua. Editor: Vincent Nickelsen, Jovaney Ashman. Production Designer: Emmanuel Minelle, Radio K7 Creative. Executive Producer : Fanny Giniès. Sound Director: Marc Valenduc. Music: Rone. Graphic Design: Cédric Cazaly.Whilst the following podcast discusses the financial markets, it does not recommend any particular investment decision. If you are unsure of the merits of any investment decision, please seek professional advice. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What kind of risk taker are you? The answer may reveal more than you think.In this episode of 2050 Investors, Kokou Agbo-Bloua takes a closer look at risk and its role in the financial markets. Kokou explores traditional risk management models such as the Value at Risk, volatility and heteroskedasticity (volatility of volatility) and explores the interplay between Main Street and Wall Street.Later, Kokou sits down with Hatem Mustapha, Co-Head of Global Markets, to discuss the ins and outs of managing risk. They examine different risk management models, their pros and cons, and the importance of framing the tail risk, the blind spots investors have in managing risk and the world of 'unknown unknowns'.About this showWelcome to 2050 Investors, your monthly guide to understanding the intricate connections between finance, globalisation, and ESG.Join host Kokou Agbo-Bloua, Head of Economics, Cross-Asset & Quant Research at Societe Generale, for an exploration of the economic and market megatrends shaping the present and future, and how these trends might influence our progress to meeting 2050’s challenging global sustainability targets.In each episode, Kokou deep-dives into the events impacting the economy, financial markets, the planet, and society. Through a magical blend of personal anecdotes, in-depth research and narratives overlaid with music, sound effects, and pop culture references, there’s certainly something for everyone.Kokou also interviews industry-leading experts, personalities, entrepreneurs and even Nobel prize winners! You will learn from the best on a wide range of subjects on current affairs, market shifts, and economic developments.If you like 2050 Investors, please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support will help us spread the word and reach new audiences. If you’re seeking a brief and entertaining overview of market-related topics and their business and societal implications, subscribe now to stay informed!Previous episodes of 2050 Investors have explored ESG, climate change, AI, greenflation, globalization, plastic pollution, food, healthcare, biodiversity and more.CreditsPresenter & Writer: Kokou Agbo-Bloua. Editors: Vincent Nickelsen, Jovaney Ashman, Linda Isker, Jennifer Krumm, Louis Trouslard.Production Designer: Emmanuel Minelle, Radio K7 Creative. Executive Producer : Fanny Giniès. Sound Director: Marc Valenduc. Music: Rone. Graphic Design: Cédric Cazaly.Whilst the following podcast discusses the financial markets, it does not recommend any particular investment decision. If you are unsure of the merits of any investment decision, please seek professional advice.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Part 1 of the episode. Don't miss Jonny Wilkinson's interview in Part 2.“You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow.This opportunity comes once in a lifetime”.In this episode about sports, these lyrics from Eminem’s hit song ‘Lose Yourself‘ resonate deeply. Throughout History, from civil rights to diversity and inclusion, sports have deeply shaped, inspired and changed our individual and collective human experiences.This episode is a celebration of all things sports. In the first part of this episode, we explore the past, the present and the future of sports, in the face of climate change. We also take a trip down memory lane and revisited some of the best moments in sports history and the stars who ceased the opportunity at the right moment. From Muhammad Ali's 'Rumble in the Jungle' to Serena Williams' US Open in 1999, we explored them all.And in part two, Kokou Agbo-Bloua interviews rugby legend Jonny Wilkinson on how you can go beyond your internal limits and awake the star within. Jonny shares with us lessons from his career, which are sure to help you in and off the field. About this showWelcome to 2050 Investors your monthly guide to understanding the intricate connections between finance, globalisation, and ESG.Join host Kokou Agbo-Bloua, Head of Economics, Cross-Asset & Quant Research at Societe Generale, for an investigation of the economic and market megatrends shaping the present and future, and how these trends might influence our progress to meeting 2050’s challenging global sustainability targets.In each episode, Kokou deep dives into the events impacting the economy, financial markets, the planet, and society. Through a magical blend of personal anecdotes, in-depth research and narratives overlaid with music, sound effects, and pop culture references, there’s certainly something for everyone.Kokou also interviews industry-leading experts, personalities, entrepreneurs and even Nobel prize winners! You will learn from the best on a wide range of subjects on current affairs, market shifts, and economic developments.If you like 2050 Investors, please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support will help us spread the word and reach new audiences. If you’re seeking a brief and entertaining overview of market-related topics and their business and societal implications, subscribe now to stay informed!Previous episodes of 2050 Investors have explored ESG-influenced financial assets, climate change, AI, greenflation, smart cities, globalization, plastic pollution, food, health care, biodiversity, the energy transition, and more.CreditsPresenter & Writer: Kokou Agbo-Bloua. Editors: Vincent Nickelsen, Jovaney Ashman, Linda Isker and Théodora David. Production Designer: Emmanuel Minelle, Radio K7 Creative. Executive Producer : Fanny Giniès. Sound Director: Marc Valenduc. Music: Rone. Graphic Design: Cédric Cazaly.Whilst the following podcast discusses the financial markets, it does not recommend any particular investment decision. If you are unsure of the merits of any investment decision, please seek professional advice.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Is nuclear power the key to a carbon-neutral future or an accident waiting to happen? Non-hydro renewables such as wind and solar are predicted to play a major role in the future. However, one of these energy solutions has divided public opinion more than others. To mention the name "nuclear" is to conjure up the boogie man or "he who must not be named". By 2050, some 10 billion people will need some form of energy to eat, travel, work and protect themselves from the weather. McKinsey's Energy 2050 research report predicts that demand for electricity will grow twice as fast as demand for transport, while at the same time fossil fuels will decline. So how will we power the future?In this episode of 2050 Investors, Kokou Agbo-Bloua delves into the controversial topic of nuclear power, exploring its history, potential benefits and risks in the context of the global energy transition. He also highlights the dual nature of nuclear energy as both a powerful source of clean energy and a potentially catastrophic force capable of altering life at the atomic level. To explore the issue further, Kokou orchestrates a virtual Oxford-style debate between experts for and against nuclear power. The pro-nuclear side includes Bill Gates, Ernest Moniz, George Monbiot and James Hansen, advocating for nuclear power as a necessary tool to combat climate change. The anti-nuclear side includes Tom Steyer and Mark Jacobson, who criticise its economic feasibility and safety concerns. Each expert presents their opening statement, outlining their position and the key matters surrounding nuclear power.This episode will help you understand the fears, facts, and fission, so that you can make up your own mind about nuclear power.About this showWelcome to 2050 Investors, your monthly guide to understanding the intricate connections between finance, globalisation, and ESG.Join host Kokou Agbo-Bloua, Head of Economics, Cross-Asset & Quant Research at Societe Generale, for an exploration of the economic and market megatrends shaping the present and future, and how these trends might influence our progress to meeting 2050’s challenging global sustainability targets.In each episode, Kokou deep-dives into the events impacting the economy, financial markets, the planet, and society. Through a magical blend of personal anecdotes, in-depth research and narratives overlaid with music, sound effects, and pop culture references, there’s certainly something for everyone.Kokou also interviews industry-leading experts, personalities, entrepreneurs and even Nobel prize winners! You will learn from the best on a wide range of subjects on current affairs, market shifts, and economic developments.If you like 2050 Investors, please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support will help us spread the word and reach new audiences. If you’re seeking a brief and entertaining overview of market-related topics and their business and societal implications, subscribe now to stay informed!Previous episodes of 2050 Investors have explored ESG, climate change, AI, greenflation, globalization, plastic pollution, food, healthcare, biodiversity and more.CreditsPresenter & Writer: Kokou Agbo-Bloua. Editors: Vincent Nickelsen, Jovaney Ashman, Linda Isker & Jennifer Krumm. Production Designer: Emmanuel Minelle, Radio K7 Creative. Executive Producer : Fanny Giniès. Sound Director: Marc Valenduc. Music: Rone. Graphic Design: Cédric Cazaly.Whilst the following podcast discusses the financial markets, it does not recommend any particular investment decision. If you are unsure of the merits of any investment decision, please seek professional advice.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The Chinese have a saying, 'A peaceful life has nothing to do with the passage of time'. This sound reminder points to the importance of enjoying life regardless of age. After all, age is just a number, right? Ageing has become a topical issue in the mainstream recently as experts warn of the incoming 'Silver Avalanche', which has already swept Europe and is making its way to Asia.Global life expectancy has risen from 51 to 72 since 1960 and is expected to reach 77 by 2050. It is projected that there will be around 2.4 billion elderly (aged 65 or over) or 24% of the world's population by the end of the century.Now, it is more important than ever to prepare for this demographic shift and ensure that older adults have access to the resources they need to live fulfilling lives. This, however, presents a dilemma, as while life expectancy is rising, families are shrinking as people have fewer children. The far-reaching effects are already being felt in many countries, including China.In this episode of 2050 Investors, Kokou reflects on the ageing crisis and its impact on the world's population, its economy, and the planet. The conversation then shifts to an analysis of the silver economy: With the assistance of Yoda from Star Wars, who was once Siri but aged due to planned obsolescence, Kokou explores the impact of a shrinking workforce, pension fund deficits, and escalating healthcare costs on fiscal and monetary policy.Later in the episode, Kokou talks with Wei Yao, Chief Economist for APAC at Societe Generale. With China's robust economic growth lifting millions out of poverty over the past decades, how does the country now address the imminent reality of an ageing population? There are solutions on the horizon, such as learning from countries like Japan and focusing on healthy ageing. However, striking a balance between economic growth and social welfare whilst creating a sustainable future is a complex challenge.About this showWelcome to 2050 Investors, your monthly guide to understanding the intricate connections between finance, globalisation, and ESG.Join host Kokou Agbo-Bloua, Head of Economics, Cross-Asset & Quant Research at Societe Generale, for an exploration of the economic and market megatrends shaping the present and future, and how these trends might influence our progress to meeting 2050’s challenging global sustainability targets.In each episode, Kokou deep-dives into the events impacting the economy, financial markets, the planet, and society. Through a magical blend of personal anecdotes, in-depth research and narratives overlaid with music, sound effects, and pop culture references, there’s certainly something for everyone.Kokou also interviews industry-leading experts, personalities, entrepreneurs and even Nobel prize winners! You will learn from the best on a wide range of subjects on current affairs, market shifts, and economic developments.If you like 2050 Investors, please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support will help us spread the word and reach new audiences. If you’re seeking a brief and entertaining overview of market-related topics and their business and societal implications, subscribe now to stay informed!Previous episodes of 2050 Investors have explored ESG, climate change, AI, greenflation, globalization, plastic pollution, food, healthcare, biodiversity and more.CreditsPresenter & Writer: Kokou Agbo-Bloua. Editors: Vincent Nickelsen, Jovaney Ashman, Linda Isker. Production Designer: Emmanuel Minelle, Radio K7 Creative. Executive Producer : Fanny Giniès. Sound Director: Marc Valenduc. Music: Rone. Graphic Design: Cédric Cazaly.Whilst the following podcast discusses the financial markets, it does not recommend any particular investment decision. If you are unsure of the merits of any investment decision, please seek professional advice.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.