Daniel Silke – Political Economy, Global Trends and Strategic Foresight
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SPEAKER DETAILS
Helping organisations understand political risk, economic change, and the global forces shaping business and leadership decisions.
Book Guest Speaker Daniel Silke on 067 843 2362 or email directly to info@guestspeaker.co.za
Guest Speaker Daniel Silke is an international speaker, political economy analyst, and strategic foresight expert, widely recognised as one of South Africa’s leading commentators on global, African, and South African political and economic trends. Known for his engaging and highly accessible presentation style, Daniel helps organisations and leadership teams better understand uncertainty, political risk, economic disruption, and the changing global business environment.
As Director of the Political Futures Consultancy based in Cape Town, Daniel works with major global organisations, delivering presentations and strategic workshops that combine political analysis with economic insight. With more than 15 years of experience advising businesses and conference audiences, he is known for translating complex geopolitical and economic developments into practical strategies for decision-makers.
Daniel’s clients include leading global brands and organisations such as Bank of America, Maersk, Marriott International, Oracle, PwC, Investec, Deloitte, BMW, ABSA, and FirstRand. He has addressed audiences at major international conferences and forums across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Australia, and the United States.
Drawing on his background in politics, academia, and strategic consulting, Daniel brings a unique perspective to leadership and business strategy. He holds a Master’s degree in South African and International Politics from the University of Cape Town and previously served in public office as a Member of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament and as a City Councillor in Cape Town.
In his presentations, Daniel explores themes such as global political and economic trends, geopolitical risk, African growth opportunities, leadership in uncertain environments, and the future forces shaping business and society. His presentations are known for being insightful, forward-thinking, and highly relevant to executive and corporate audiences navigating rapid change.
Beyond the conference platform, Daniel is a widely sought-after media commentator and political analyst. He has appeared on major international and local media platforms including the BBC, Bloomberg, Reuters, France 24, CNBC Africa, ENCA, SABC, and Sky Australia. He is also the author of Tracking the Future: Top Trends That Will Shape South Africa and the World.
His speaking style is intelligent, energetic, and engaging, making him a sought-after speaker for leadership conferences, business forums, and executive strategy sessions both locally and internationally.
Daniel Silke’s sessions are particularly well suited to:
• Corporate conferences and executive leadership events
• Financial services and investment audiences
• Strategy and future-focused business forums
• Organisations navigating political and economic uncertainty
• International and cross-border business audiences
South Africa’s Critical Year: Surviving Domestic and Global Headwinds
South Africa faces a crucial year. Can the country sustain and build on its more positive economic growth or will the volatility of the global environment - both politically and economically - impact policy and direction? Domestically, local government elections are likely to raise the political climate as the ANC attempts to claw back lost support amidst party divisions and apprehension ahead of 2029. The survival of the GNU will depend on these critical outcomes and will impact the country and business well into the future.
Risk & Resilience 2026: Navigating the Global Economy amidst Rising Political Volatility
The world is shifting from temporary disruption to a new and more volatile reality. The old rules of global trade and diplomatic co-operation are being replaced by a complex landscape of new alliances, political contestation and weaponized supply chains. For today’s leaders, the challenge is no longer just managing growth—it’s navigating a geopolitical boiling pot where strategic agility is the only way to survive. Understanding and identifying the key drivers of change within a complex international economic environment is now more critical than ever!
A world of disruption: Global challenges & opportunities in the era of Donald Trump
The world was changing well before Donald Trump took office for a second term as US President. International relations and economic interests were diverging as the BRICS+ nations extended their geo-political footprint. China’s reach into Africa has cemented relations with Beijing while dangerous geo-political conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine threaten regional stability. Electorates in the West remain increasingly dissatisfied as incumbents battle to retain power amidst inflation, rates and economic growth pressures. Since taking office, Donald Trump is re-setting US domestic policy with collateral effects globally. Understanding these dynamics is now essential for strategic planning and business stability.
A new world dis(Order): Trump, Trade and Global Transformation in 2025 & Beyond
In a very short period, new US President Donald Trump has embarked on a controversial review of existing trade protocols with both allies and competitors. US foreign policy goals are shifting as the international order is tested and potentially altered. These developments have profound consequences for the global economy and business positioning across markets.
Brave GNU World 2025: Global & Domestic Risks Impacting South Africa
South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) confronts pressing domestic and international challenges to revitalise and grow the economy. This session explores the options for the GNU as it faces economic headwinds and political pressures in a critical year.
The State of the Nation 2025: Can South Africa find its elusive ‘on-Switch’?
Flagship analysis of key economic and political issues affecting South Africa now and into the near future, including global macro-economic conditions. Customisable for industry relevance.
Impact: South Africa & the World - Global Economic & Political Environment: Prospects for South Africa
A global overview of international risk issues impacting South Africa, with analysis of domestic policy and recovery potential.
South Africa Budget 2025: Special Event Analysis
Pre- or post-Budget analysis session tailored to the South African national Budget cycle.
Africa’s Next Move: Growth Prospects Amidst Global & Regional Change
Macro-economic, political and social overview of Africa in 2025 and beyond.
The Age of Disruption: Recognising & Responding to Political & Economic Risk
Analysis of global risk factors including trade uncertainty, power shifts, climate change, conflict, debt, demographics and AI disruption.
Uncertainty is the Only Guarantee: The World in 2025 and Beyond
Macro-overview of global political and economic conditions with regional customisation.
The New World (Disorder): The West versus the Rest
Analysis of shifting global power relations as the USA, China and the Global South diverge.
Megatrends: 2025 & Beyond
Political, social, economic and technological trends shaping the next decade.
The Travel & Tourism Economy
Impact of global political economy on travel and hospitality sectors.
The Consumer of the Future
Impact of global economic trends on consumer and retail sectors.
TESTIMONIALS
HAYLEY GETHING
Having dealt with Guest Speaker on a few occasions, your service is professional and outstanding. Your staff are friendly and very efficient. I would highly recommend Guest Speaker to anyone in need of this service. Regards.
Hayley Gething - Yokohama Southern Africa
LAWRENCE REITER
Guest Speaker - your service, advise, professional and friendly manner together with the exceptional presentations are superb. We will continue to always use and recommend you for speakers. Thanks so much!
Lawrence Reiter – SACRA
info@guestspeaker.co.za 067 843 2362
