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Keynote SpeakerMark Brolin

Geopolitical/Geoeconomic strategist, Economist, Commentator and Author

Tired of the relentless doomsday narratives whenever geopolitics is discussed? Then Mark Brolin is probably your guy. Unlike most others in his field, he finds it unlikely that the world is on the geopolitical brink. He does, however, observe that humans have a habit—we thrive on existential threats. Every era... Read more

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Popular Talks by Mark Brolin

  • Beyond the Noise: Key Reasons the World is in Better Shape than you might Think
  • Key country geopolitical round-up and why today’s doom-and-gloom sentiment is way over the top
  • The US case study: A country much misunderstood that keeps bouncing back
  • The Chinese case study: A country that, despite a few remarkable decades of growth, still remains (somewhat) asleep
  • The Indian case study: The Land of the Future
  • The Russian case study: The country that keeps disappointing
  • The EU case study: The dream that is fizzling out

Biography

Tired of the relentless doomsday narratives whenever geopolitics is discussed? Then Mark Brolin is probably your guy. Unlike most others in his field, he finds it unlikely that the world is on the geopolitical brink.

He does, however, observe that humans have a habit—we thrive on existential threats. Every era has its own doomsday narrative: Y2K, the ozone layer, oil depletion (or excess), nuclear war, the demographic bomb, China, nationalism, de-globalisation, AI stealing jobs—the list goes on. Every decade, a new “existential crisis” dominates the conversation. Today’s crisis of choice? Russia. A classic in the apocalypse genre, making yet another comeback. While Ukraine has every reason for concern, its fight to break free from Moscow is actually proof of Russia’s weakness, not its strength.

Yet, the panic narrative persists. Why? Because fear sells. Politicians, media outlets, budget seekers, and many other influencers have a vested interest in keeping the world in a permanent state of emergency. The logic is simple: crisis means control. Every ideology, every movement, and every fundraising campaign is incentivised to argue that unless you vote for X, support Y, or donate to Z, everything you hold dear will be doomed. Those seeking influence are always ready with claims of a “special case right now.”

The misanthropes in politics have likely existed since we stopped being apes. But, Mark asks, isn’t it long overdue to take things to a higher level? Is it not also somewhat apelike, he continues, to always expect the worst—despite the fact that countless past doomsday predictions have never fully materialised, and yet, here we are?

Known for his ability to cut through politicised or biased “noise,” Mark Brolin delivers straightforward, factual insights with practical relevance. His pragmatic, can-do approach is rooted in a diverse professional background, including roles at the Swedish Foreign Ministry, Nasdaq, and Cantor Fitzgerald. The tragic events of September 11, where he lost 650 colleagues, profoundly influenced his shift from corporate development to geopolitics and geoeconomics.

In his latest book, Healing Broken Democracies: All You Need to Know About Populism, Brolin explains why he believes the current global transition period will ultimately yield more positive outcomes than today’s prevailing doom-and-gloom sentiment suggests. This work, produced in collaboration with renowned international thought leaders, reflects his commitment to forward-looking analysis that balances short-term risks—often emphasised by mainstream media—with long-term opportunities. The ability to integrate both perspectives often determines whether an organisation functions merely as a risk management department bent on survival or as a company with the mindset and agility to seize opportunities, expand, and thrive.

Mark Brolin stands out as the only voice in the field of geopolitics offering realist optimism in the same way Hans Rosling uniquely championed realist optimism in socioeconomics.

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What clients say about Mark Brolin

“Mark Brolin delivers world-class lectures that merge profound geopolitical and geoeconomic insights with the ability to look beyond the day-to-day noise and identify the long-term trends shaping our world. With clarity akin to Hans Rosling, he navigates audiences through complex territories, illuminated by fact-based analyses and a unique capability to uncover opportunities amidst challenges. His presentation at the Friends of Executives CEO Conference in Sweden 2023 was not only an eye-opener but also an inspiration. He combines expert knowledge with an engaging delivery that makes complex subjects accessible and immediately relevant. An indispensable voice for anyone seeking understanding and strategic guidance in today's rapidly changing world.” Jimmy Oldén, CEO and Founder of Friends of Executive
”Mark Brolin joined our annual Bona Global Leadership Meeting and gave a very interesting and engaging presentation, updating us on the world geopolitical environment. It was very informative and gave our teams a deeper understanding of the movements in politics and how it could affect global trade and regional market trends.” Magnus Andersson, CEO of Bona

How to book Mark Brolin as a keynote speaker

How do I book Mark Brolin for a keynote speech?

You can book Mark Brolin through London Speaker Bureau by submitting the enquiry form on this page or calling our team. One of our consultants will respond promptly with Mark's current availability, speaking fees and any specific requirements for your event.

What are Mark Brolin's speaking fees?

Mark Brolin's speaking fees depend on the event format (in-person or virtual), the location, the length of the engagement and the level of customisation required. Please contact London Speaker Bureau for an up-to-date fee quote for Mark tailored to your event.

What topics does Mark Brolin speak about?

Mark Brolin speaks on Brexit, Economics, Economics & Finance, Europe, Financial. Talks can be shaped around your audience, industry and strategic objectives - share your event brief with London Speaker Bureau and we will work with Mark to align the content with your delegates and goals.

Is Mark Brolin available for international events?

London Speaker Bureau can book Mark Brolin for events worldwide, subject to Mark's schedule. Please send us your event date, location and format and we will confirm availability and handle travel and logistics on your behalf.

Does Mark Brolin deliver virtual or online keynotes?

Virtual and hybrid keynotes are now a standard part of the speaking industry. Please contact London Speaker Bureau to confirm whether Mark Brolin is available to deliver a virtual session for your event and on which platform (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, a bespoke studio or your own).

How long is a typical keynote by Mark Brolin?

Most keynote speeches run between 45 and 60 minutes, often followed by a 15-30 minute Q&A. Other formats - shorter conference slots, panel appearances or longer workshop sessions - may also be possible. Share your agenda with London Speaker Bureau and we will confirm what Mark can accommodate.

Can Mark Brolin tailor the keynote to our industry and audience?

London Speaker Bureau will brief Mark Brolin on your audience profile, sector and objectives so the keynote can be shaped around your event. The level of customisation possible depends on the speaker and the lead time - contact us with your brief and we will confirm what Mark can offer.

What languages does Mark Brolin present in?

Mark Brolin delivers keynotes in English, Swedish. This profile may not list every language available; ask London Speaker Bureau to confirm. If you require simultaneous interpretation or a multilingual format, please mention this in your enquiry and London Speaker Bureau will arrange it for you.

What makes Mark Brolin a strong fit as a keynote speaker?

Mark Brolin's areas of expertise include Brexit, Economics, Economics & Finance, Europe, Financial. To get a clear sense of Mark's style, credentials and how they engage an audience, please review the biography, popular talks and any videos or testimonials shown on this page, or request a detailed speaker brief from London Speaker Bureau.

What kind of events can Mark Brolin speak at?

Mark Brolin can be booked through London Speaker Bureau for corporate conferences, leadership events, internal team meetings, association gatherings and private client engagements where expertise in Brexit, Economics, Economics & Finance, Europe, Financial is relevant. Details of Mark's background and previous engagements are included in the biography above; contact us if you would like a more detailed list of past clients or case studies.

Does Mark Brolin offer workshops, panels or fireside chats in addition to keynotes?

Beyond keynote speeches, many of the speakers on our roster also take part in workshops, executive masterclasses, panel discussions and fireside chats. Contact London Speaker Bureau with your preferred format and we will confirm what Mark Brolin is able to offer alongside or instead of a keynote.

How far in advance should we book Mark Brolin?

We generally recommend enquiring at least three to twelve months in advance to secure your preferred date with Mark Brolin, particularly during peak conference seasons. Where possible we also accommodate shorter lead times - please contact London Speaker Bureau to check Mark's current availability for your dates.