North Capital Forum

Hosted by Vesta

This panel explored how shifting global supply chains are reshaping North America's industrial landscape. The discussion highlighted the challenges and opportunities of nearshoring and its implications for manufacturing strategies and industrial real estate markets. Experts explored how this shift is driving demand for advanced manufacturing facilities and strategic locations across North America, emphasizing opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure development.

Speakers:

Ricardo Fernández-Mazarambroz, Director of Corporate and Government Banking Network, BBVA Mexico

Adriana Eguía, Regional Vice President, North West Mexico, Vesta

Marco del Prete, Secretary of Economic Development, State of Querétaro, Mexico

Jorge González Henrichsen, CEO, The Nearshore Company

Anuar Barake, Vice President Mexico and Northern Latin America, Emerson

Hosted by Fundación Coca Cola + USC Schwarzenegger Institute

Transitioning to a circular economy in North America presents both significant challenges and immense opportunities. Shifting from the traditional 'take-make-waste' model to a sustainable approach is crucial for addressing environmental and social issues, combating climate change, and unlocking substantial economic benefits. This panel explored North America's unique strengths, key challenges, and the necessary changes in business models, practices, regulations, and policies to accelerate the transition to a circular economy.

Speakers:

Carolina Garayzar, Chief of Staff to the Chairman / Head of ESG Financial Services, BanCoppel

Gov. Marina del Pilar Ávila, Governor, State of Baja California, Mexico

Fernanda Guarro, General Director, 3M México

Francisca Martinez, Deputy Chief of Staff, USC Schwarzenegger Institute

Julian Escutia, Country Director, Mexico, Sea Shepherd Conservation Society

Hosted by México en Movimiento

In this panel, we engaged in a conversation with Garrett M. Graff, a renowned geopolitical expert, exploring the wide range of topics he writes about, including cybersecurity, national security, technology, politics, and historical events. The discussion focused on how these global issues intersect with and impact the North American region, shaping the future of its geopolitical landscape. You will gain insights into the complexities of modern geopolitics and their implications for the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, offering valuable perspectives for understanding the region's role in an interconnected world.

Speakers:

Javier Tello, Political Analyst and Commentator

Garrett Graff, Bestselling Historian and Pulitzer Prize Finalist; Director of Cyber Initiatives, Aspen Institute

Hosted by Pacific Council + Institute of the Americas, USC

This panel explored the current and future state of North America's energy infrastructure, focusing on the challenges and opportunities in maintaining and upgrading the electric grid to meet rising demands. Speakers examined the shift from traditional energy sources to sustainable alternatives and its impact on the region's economies. They discussed strategies for achieving long-term energy sustainability, emphasizing the importance of cross-border collaboration and public-private partnerships. This discussion underscored the crucial role of infrastructure, technology, and policy in creating a sustainable and resilient energy system for North America.

Speakers:

Duncan Wood, President and CEO, Pacific Council on International Policy

Jeremy Martin, Vice President, Energy & Sustainability, Institute of the Americas, USC

Katya Somohano, CEO, Iberdrola Mexico

Abraham Zamora, President - Mexico, Sempra Infraestructura

Jeff Wilson, Vice President - Government, Public Affairs & Sustainability, Devon Energy; USMF board Member

Hosted by AS/COA

In this panel, North American legislators emphasized the role of legislative exchanges in enhancing regional cooperation. They discussed how cross-border collaborations improve policy development, harmonize regulations, and tackle shared challenges. The focus was on how legislative bodies can drive effective governance and support a unified approach to regional issues, underscoring their crucial role in advancing North America's collective progress.

Speakers:

Susan Segal, President and CEO, AS/COA

Sen. Luis Donaldo Colosio, Senator for Nuevo Leon, Mexico

Catherine McKenna, Founder and CEO, Climate and Nature Solutions

Sen. Alejandro Murat, Senator for Oaxaca, Mexico

Sen. Nathan Johnson, State Senator, District 16, Texas , USA

Hosted by the Migration Policy Institute + International Organization for Migration (IOM UN)

This panel explored how strengthened collaboration between governments and international organizations can enhance and expand labor mobility pathways. These pathways offer a dual benefit: addressing labor shortages across skill levels and attracting new talent while safeguarding migrant rights. However, North American governments face significant challenges in managing migration pressures, impacting access to skilled labor and regional competitiveness. Panelists discussed the obstacles and strategies to ensure these pathways support humane and orderly migration, benefiting migrants, the economy, and society.

Speakers:

Andrew Selee, President, Migration Policy Institute

Dana Graber, Chief of Mission, OIM

Theresa Cardinal Brown, NCF24 FELLOW; Senior Advisor, Immigration and Border Policy, Bipartisan Policy Center

Rafael Fernández De Castro, Director, Center for U.S.-Mexican Studies, UC San Diego

Marion Avril, Sustainability and Social Innovation Director, Driscoll's

Hosted by the Borderplex Alliance

The panel explored the intricacies of U.S.-China relations, including technological innovation, economic resilience, and strategic resource management that give North America an edge over Chinese economic strategies. It also covered China's growing influence in Latin America, focusing on Mexico and how the Biden administration's "managed competition" strategy impacts diplomatic and economic dynamics in the region. The session aims to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities arising from these dynamics and how North America can thrive in the changing global economic environment.

Speakers:

Jon Barela, CEO, The Borderplex Alliance

George P. Bush, Managing Partner, Michael Best Law

Stuart Holliday, CEO, Meridian International Center

Hosted by GBM + QED

This panel delved into the emerging "LATAM Hype" in entrepreneurship, technology, talent, and innovation across North America. Experts explored how Latin America's energy and creativity are driving technological advancements, nurturing talent, and attracting investment throughout the region. The audience will gain insights into the future of innovation and economic growth as North and Latin America come together to create new opportunities. This session offers valuable perspectives for those seeking to stay ahead in the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship and development.

Speakers:

Moris Dieck, Podcast Host and Business Consultant, Dimes y Billetes Podcast

Ana Cristina Gadala-Maria, Principal, LatAm, QED Investors

Pedro de Garay, Co-CEO, GBM

Kate Kiewel, Vice President, Bicyle Capital

Jaime Martínez-Negrete, President & Country Head, Morgan Stanley

Hosted by the Atlantic Council, Adrienne Arsht Latin America Center + Hunt Institute, UTEP

This panel emphasized the crucial role of border infrastructure and efficiency in North America's interconnected regional economy. As technological advancements and trade liberalization drive growth, experts discussed how streamlined border operations are essential for lowering transaction costs, boosting competitiveness, and broadening market access. By examining strategies and best practices for improving cross-border processes, the panel aims to promote economic development and highlight North America's significant role in global trade.

Speakers:

Mayra Maldonado, Executive Director, Hunt Institute for Global Competitiveness, UTEP

Jason Marczak, Vice President and Senior Director, Atlantic Council Adrienne Arsht Latin America Center

Gerónimo Gutiérrez, Former Ambassador of Mexico to the United States; Senior Advisor, Covington

Oscar del Cueto, President and Executive Representative, CPKC de México

John Cowen, Mayor, City of Brownsville

Hosted by Meta + Whitepaper

Hosted by Meta + Whitepaper This panel explored the impact of open AI models on the global stage, highlighting how they are empowering diverse talents and reducing the economic divide in AI. Experts discussed how these models are accelerating the development of innovative AI applications that tackle major societal challenges and enhance accessibility. The conversation also addressed potential risks and scrutiny surrounding open AI models, emphasizing the importance of responsible use and governance.

Speakers:

Susana Sáenz, Head of Multimedia Content & Events, Whitepaper

Pedro Pavón, Global Director of Monetization and Ads Privacy and Fairness Policy, Meta

Jimena Pardo, Managing Partner, Hi Ventures

David Jiménez, Managing Director, CPG, Softtek