Qatar Economic Forum 2025: Day Two Insights

The 2025 Qatar Economic Forum, powered by Bloomberg, featured international CEOs discussing the global economy's transformation. Key highlights from the second day of the forum included discussions on the impact of technological advancements, shifts in global economic power dynamics, and the role of sustainable development in shaping the future economy.

The 2025 Qatar Economic Forum, powered by Bloomberg, concluded its second day with a focus on the global economy's transformation. Key discussions centered around the impact of technological advancements, shifts in global economic power dynamics, and the role of sustainable development in shaping the future economy.

Avangrid CEO Pedro Azagra participated in a roundtable discussion titled "The Next R&D Hub: Investing in Innovation’s Future," hosted by the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council Secretary General Omar Al-Ansari. Azagra joined 15 global industry leaders to explore the key forces shaping global R&D strategies, from talent access and regulatory shifts to geopolitical risk and market potential. Avangrid, a leading energy company and member of the Iberdrola Group, is committed to investing $20 billion in the US grid through 2030 [1].

Avangrid's participation underscored the company's dedication to innovation and sustainable development. Iberdrola, the parent company, has invested over €1.78 billion in R&D over the past five years, with €403 million allocated in 2024 alone. The company leads dedicated innovation teams across various geographies, including the United States, Spain, and Qatar [1].

The forum also featured discussions on the Middle East's economic prospects. Turkish Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek expressed optimism about the momentum in Turkey's markets, while Marc Nachmann, Goldman Sachs' global head of asset and wealth management, announced plans to expand in the Middle East. Prime Minister Al-Thani rejected allegations that a jet gifted to US President Donald Trump constituted a bribe and hinted at forthcoming incentives for foreign investors in strategic sectors [2].

Elon Musk's virtual appearance added a significant tech perspective to the forum. His insights on technological advancements and their impact on the global economy were highly anticipated.

The forum's focus on innovation and sustainable development reflects the global economy's evolving priorities. As technological advancements continue to reshape industries, the role of R&D and sustainable practices becomes increasingly critical. The discussions at the Qatar Economic Forum 2025 highlight the importance of strategic investments and partnerships in driving future economic growth.

References:
[1] https://www.morningstar.com/news/business-wire/20250520812304/avangrid-ceo-pedro-azagra-attends-qatar-economic-forum-to-lead-discussion-on-investments-in-innovation
[2] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/live-blog/2025-05-20/qatar-economic-forum-live-updates-elon-musk-day-1?cursorId=682C7F8DB21C0000&srnd=homepage-americas