LSE Emerging Markets Forum

4 April 2016

Students gathered from the best universities around the world on the 4 and 5 March 2016, to discuss social, economic, and political aspects surrounding emerging markets. These important topics are currently affecting not only emerging markets but also the globe. Students had the opportunity listen to knowledgeable, interesting, and inspiring leaders and specialists in their industries; learn more about market trends in emerging markets; network; go to workshops, keynote speeches and discussions.

Five UEBS MSc IBEM students attended the well-organized, international London School of Economics 7th Annual Emerging Markets Forum. They were there not only to experience this unique conference, but also to represent the wider University of Edinburgh community and specifically the Business School in what proved to be an exhilarating conference that drew together an impressive multicultural group of students across all disciplines, universities, and nationalities.

Held at the Millennium Hotel London Mayfair, centrally located in close proximity to Hyde Park and the surrounding central London area, the event was very well-organized. Although an early registration waited for them upon arrival, the group quickly spread out and met other students attending the event. The first keynote of the day, given by Dr James Zhang from the UN World Investment Report, was exceptionally informative and an excellent introduction to emerging markets, discussing recent trends and policies alongside those from SLJ Macro partners, Credit Suisse, and Bloomberg. This set the stage for a busy two days of presentations, panels, and workshops each focused on different sectors and industries in emerging markets.

There were several talks which were especially interesting. Pippa Malmgram, special assistant to the US President, was present discussing Security and Defense issues in emerging markets. She presented a range of issues I had personally never considered, and gave insight into the motivations of recent Chinese actions. Secondly, the panel on Macroeconomics and Central Banking Policy proved to be fascinating to witness, as unlike other panels in the event the panellists not only had different views on certain issues, but brought up several timely observations about a variety of topics from the Refugee crisis to the US presidential campaigns.

Although these topics were consistently raised in Q&A sessions after each talk, this one stood out specifically for Stephen Jen’s argument that the greatest challenge faced by the EU is not necessarily how it deals with problems, but an underlying issue of perception: every hurdle the union has faced is viewed by the European Community as an “existential crisis”. This point sparked further opinion and discussion from the other panellists and was perhaps the most engaging panel of the conference.

One particular speaker was noted as ‘worth the trip.’ The keynote given by Jim Rogers, renowned Investor, Author and Co-Founder of the Quantum Fund was not only the most entertaining panel, but perhaps the most inspiring. Mr. Rogers, called ‘the Warren Buffett of our time,’ gave not only his opinions on investment opportunities in emerging markets, but shared his two year motorbike world tour across six continents which earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. His talk was far more personal as he discussed his experiences travelling around the world, meeting people in remote areas, and his overall outlook on life. It was a brilliant end to a busy day.

Refreshment breaks proved to be very valuable as it gave the opportunity to network with other attendees, discuss the talks, and also attend various employers booths. While one student talked to graduate employers from Bloomberg and the Oxford Business Group, to which they plan to apply; others were impressed by the opportunity to have direct question and answer sessions with the London Stock Exchange Group, Bloomberg, and Credit Suisse. Overall this experience proved to be invaluable. From an academic sense it gave insight into a wide range of industries, and has helped consideration of further dissertation possibilities.

From a professional perspective the networking opportunities at a conference like this are invaluable and will provide future connections. One student said: “from a personal standpoint, having the opportunity to represent the Business school and attend a conference of such high calibre and professionalism is an honor and one of the highlights of my time at the Business School. I would like to thank Santander and Student Development for their continued assistance in giving us these opportunities for personal development and growth.”

Luis Adrian Jimenez Azarcoya, Claire-Marine d’Ussel, Adeline Hers, Guy Peleg, and Gregoire Asselin are MSc IBEM students who recently attended the 7th LSE Emerging Markets Forum in London, supported by funding from the Business School’s Santander initiative. Find more information about Santander funding under Opportunities on this website.