Following the first online open session on The Future of Capitalism, the second session took place on February 4, 2025. The session focused on the trajectory of capital markets and the challenges of regulating them effectively. Led by Elodie Laugel (Chief Responsible Investment Officer at Amundi Group) and joined by Rebecca Henderson (John and Natty McArthur University Professor at Harvard University), the discussion centered on responsible investment, touching on topics such as ESG assessment of companies and the stewardship role investors can play in building and supporting the transition strategy of the investee companies, and the evolving role of capital markets in promoting sustainability and equity.
The webinar was divided into two parts. The first session focused on the current state of capital markets and their future direction. Elodie Laugel began by outlining the challenges and key criteria that must be addressed to create a sustainable market. She provided the audience with a clearer understanding by presenting the concept of a sustainable ecosystem, which integrates society, finance, and the economy to ensure aligned growth.
The second session featured Rebecca Henderson, a lecturer at Harvard Business School. She started by summarizing her book “Reimagining Capitalism in a World on Fire”, and elaborated on topics such as the future of capital markets and corporate systems. She emphasized the importance of companies working together to influence regulatory environments and drive systemic change.
Towards the end of the webinar, both speakers agreed that real momentum is building in the world today. While emissions are rising there are increasing signs of positive change, such as the decreasing carbon footprint of each unit of value created as well as increasing meaningful climate commitments. However, the key challenge remains navigating this transition, as progress is not straightforward. Equipping the world with the right academic knowledge and tools is crucial for successfully adapting to this evolving environmental landscape.