This week on Exchanges, Merriden Varrall Special Advisor Geopolitics at KPMG South ASPAC and Head of geopolitical insights outfit Vantage Geopol joins us to explore the rise of populism and its far-reaching implications for markets, trade, and institutional trust.

We unpack how populism’s anti-establishment sentiment and ‘us versus them’ mentality are driving a new wave of protectionism, reshaping global politics and economic policy. Merriden shares insights into the growing challenges faced by international institutions, and the critical role businesses must play in rebuilding public trust.

The exchange also dives into Australia’s position in global trade, what rising populism means for economic diplomacy, and how politics, policy, and perception are converging to define the next era of global cooperation.

Follow Merriden here:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/merriden-varrall-phd-maicd-ab96024/

Website: http://www.vantagegeoopl.com/

Follow Evan here:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lucas-44a25316/

Website: www.evanlucas.com.au

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Populism and Its Impact

05:20 The Rise of Protectionism in Global Trade

12:02 Challenges for International Institutions

17:53 The Role of Business in a Populist Era

20:00 Tariffs and Economic Coercion

24:42 Strategic Economic Interventions

28:06 Future of Politics in a Populist Landscape

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