Horizon 2020
Critical intelligence for boards in a fast-changing world.
January 2020
Welcome to Freshfields' Horizon 2020.
The operating environment for multinational corporations in 2020 is set to be more volatile than ever. Economic conditions are uncertain, geopolitical instability casts a long shadow over global markets, regulatory regimes are evolving at speed and debate about the role of business in modern society continues to rage.
Against this backdrop, the boards of public companies face a host of challenges. How can a coherent, long-term strategy be constructed when the short-term outlook is so dynamic? What impact will climate change and other environmental and sustainability concerns have on businesses and markets? How can technology be harnessed for growth amid shifting regulatory regimes? And how should directors engage with investors whose objectives may not always match their own?
Delivering success requires a sophisticated understanding of this rapidly changing landscape. On the pages that follow we explore the key issues for boards and management in 2020, and offer practical guidance on how best to respond.
With clarity of thought and careful preparation, every challenge can be addressed — and every risk becomes an opportunity. Best wishes from us all at Freshfields for a prosperous 2020.
Your key contacts
Pamela L. Marcogliese Head of US Transactions
New York, Silicon Valley
Elizabeth K. Bieber Partner
New York
Jeremy Barr Counsel
New York
Andrea Merediz Basham Partner
New York
Richard Bird Partner
Hong Kong
Dr. Theresa Ehlen Partner
Düsseldorf, Frankfurt am Main
Sebastian L. Fain Partner
New York
Timothy Harkness Partner
New York
Valerie Ford Jacob Partner
New York
Menachem Kaplan Partner
New York
Teresa Ko Partner
Hong Kong
Christine Laciak Special Counsel
Washington, DC
Kyle Lakin Partner
New York
Mary Lehner Partner
Washington, DC
Michael Levitt Partner
New York
David Livshiz Partner
New York
Aaron Marcu Senior Counsel
New York
Jenn Mellott Office Managing Partner, Washington DC
Washington, DC, Brussels
Aimen Mir Partner | Foreign Investment and National Security | Head of CFIUS Practice
Washington, DC
Giles Pratt Partner
London
Claude Stansbury Partner
Washington, DC, Silicon Valley