Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.

From continued tightening central bank monetary policies to a looming energy crisis in Europe, companies continue to adapt to a rapidly changing macroeconomic and geopolitical environment. This week, Heather Horn was joined by Craig Stronberg and Zain Siddiqui, directors in PwC Intelligence, to discuss the latest geopolitical developments and how companies should be thinking ahead when it comes to the state of the economy and volatility in the global market.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• 1:41 - An update on geopolitical developments in Q3 2022
• 5:18 - Looking ahead: possible future impacts of a global slowdown in Europe and China
• 10:22 - How Chinese policies and regulations are affecting business operations
• 19:25 - The impact of continued “reshoring” of productive capacity
• 25:49 - Are we facing a potential recession? Thoughts on current drivers of inflation and the Fed’s monetary policy
• 29:10 - Currency volatility: the increasing strength of the dollar and its effect on business operations
• 30:50 - How the longevity of the Russia-Ukraine war is impacting the global economy
• 50:26 - Advice for companies when dealing with current geopolitical uncertainty

Want to learn more? Check out some of our previous podcasts with PwC Intelligence: Crypto toolkit: Decoding central bank digital currencies and Russian invasion of Ukraine: Global outlook and implications.

Craig Stronberg leads the Business Acumen capability for PwC Intelligence, spearheading the team of analysts that provides macroeconomic, sector, and geopolitical intelligence to key stakeholders. Named as one of the "100 Most Creative People in Business” by Fast Company, Craig had a nearly 20 year career in national security affairs working for and advising numerous agencies and international partners, having been decorated five times. His focus has been on numerous areas, including counterintelligence, economic espionage, counterterrorism, cyber threats, political-military issues, special operations integration, and support for major events such as the Olympic Games.

Zain Siddiqui is a senior economist for PwC Intelligence with a specialty in macroeconomics and finance. He advises stakeholders and clients on the business implications of emerging macro and geopolitical vulnerabilities, and helps them shape business strategy. His research has appeared in books on international economic policy and macroeconomic journals.

Heather Horn is a Deputy Chief Accountant in PwC’s National Office and leader of the thought leadership group, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series, as well as periodic webcasts for the power and utilities industry. With over 30 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to