In this episode, Flint experts examine the outlook for US–Iran talks following the fragile ceasefire, and the broader geopolitical and economic implications of the evolving Middle East conflict.

They explore potential scenarios for the ceasefire and negotiations, the regional impact across the Gulf and beyond, the effects on energy markets and the global economy, and the wider political consequences for businesses operating in the region and internationally.

Flint Founding Partner Sir Simon Fraser chairs a discussion between:

• Heidi Venamore PSM, Senior Adviser and former Australian Ambassador to the UAE and Jordan
• Alex White, Flint Managing Partner and Former Chief Political Analyst at JP Morgan
• Francois-Joseph Schichan, Flint Partner and head of Flint’s Geopolitics practice, former French diplomat

France held nationwide municipal elections on 22 March, with all towns and cities going to the polls. This marks the final major electoral milestone before the 2027 presidential and legislative elections and will offer a snapshot of the political landscape. It will also be the start of Macron’s final year in office, in a political situation that is more fragmented than ever.

In this episode, Flint experts examine what the municipal election results reveal about France’s evolving political landscape and the implications for the year ahead.

They explore how the outcomes could shape the dynamics of the 2027 presidential race, what they mean for Macron’s final year in office, and the risks and opportunities for businesses navigating an increasingly uncertain policy environment.

Flint Partner François-Joseph Schichan chairs a discussion between:

• Anne-Juliette Rohrbach​, Managing Director France.
• Sylvain Guérin, Flint Director in France, former public opinion advisor to President Macron.

The conflict in the Middle East is colliding with an already fragile global economy. While much of the immediate focus has been on Europe and the US, the second-order effects for Asia may prove more enduring — from energy security and capital flows to critical supply chains and financial stability.

In this episode, Flint experts examine how renewed instability in the Middle East could reshape the outlook for Asia’s major economies, investors and financial centres.

They explore which economies are most exposed to energy price and supply shocks, how the US, China, India and Russia are recalibrating their positions, and what firms should watch as geopolitical dynamics influence capital allocation across technology, finance and critical industries.

Flint Partner Matthew Chan chairs a discussion between:

• Heidi Venamore PSM​, Senior Adviser and former Australian
  Ambassador to the UAE and Jordan.
• James Crabtree, Senior Adviser and former Financial Times foreign correspondent and Executive Director of the Institute for International Strategic Studies in Asia.