Robert Guest: GeoPolitical Economist

  • Highlights:
    • Deputy editor of the Economist
    • Speciality Areas:
      Africa, Asia, Business, Europe, Politics, United States
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: London, UK
  • **Fee range: On Request

Keynote Topics

Robert Guest is happy to speak on a variety of topics related to global business or politics.

As the foreign editor of the Economist, he continually travels the globe, researching and speaking on topics such as the rise of China, India, Latin America and Africa, the interplay between politics and business in the USA and Europe, and the way talent and technology are shaping the global economy.

  • Borderless Economics: Chinese Sea Turtles, Indian Fridges and the New Fruits of Global Capitalism
  • The Shackled Continent: Power, Corruption, and African Lives

Robert Guest is Deputy Editor of The Economist, arguably the most influential news magazine in the world. He travels constantly around the world and speaks regularly to CEOs and entrepreneurs in all industries. He is a witty and entertaining speaker, who simplifies complex subjects and spices up his presentations with jokes and first-hand anecdotes.

He is regularly asked to chair conferences or give keynote speeches. Few other speakers can give such a vivid, up-to-date or global perspective on business and politics. Mr Guest has reported from more than 90 countries and lived in six. He has won numerous awards.

As The Economist’s Deputy Editor, Robert helps oversee all the magazine’s coverage of current affairs, from geopolitics to global economics. His previous roles include Foreign Editor, United States Editor and Business Editor.

His previous roles include foreign editor, US editor, business editor, Washington correspondent, Lexington columnist and Africa correspondent. Before joining The Economist, Mr. Guest was the Tokyo correspondent for the Daily Telegraph, and before that he was a freelance writer based in South Korea.

Robert Guest is the author of “The Shackled Continent”, a book that tries to explain how Africa can prosper, and “Borderless Economics: Chinese Sea Turtles, Indian Fridges and the New Fruits of Global Capitalism”, which argues that migration makes the world brainier.

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

Robert Guest | GeoPolitical Economist

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

No reviews available for this post.

Was this profile helpful?

Talent FAQ's

Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

  • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
  • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
  • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
  • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
  • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
  • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
  • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

View further speakers

  • (46)
  • Featured
  • (2)
Alex Weber Show

With his contagious energy and actionable System, ALEX WEBER immediately impacts audiences and ignites record-breaking achievements!  Alex is an Award-Winning Keynote Speaker, Champion Coach, Acclaimed  Author, TV Host for NBC, and competitor on American Ninja Warrior. Alex is also  the only person ever to Host and Compete on NBC’s American Ninja Warrior! Alex helps you […]

  • Travels from: Austin, TX
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (14)
speakers inc

LED light glow performers represent the next evolution of live event entertainment, where cutting-edge technology meets expressive performance art. Designed for modern conferences and corporate experiences, these performers specialize in visually immersive shows that combine LED-infused costumes, programmable pixel props, and precision choreography to deliver unforgettable moments of impact. Each performance is meticulously crafted to […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Speciality Acts
  • (24)
  • (2)
Valorie Burton - Image 15 (February 13, 2026)

In the dynamic landscape of professional speaking, few voices resonate as profoundly as that of Valorie Burton. A beacon of wisdom and empowerment, Valorie is renowned as a life strategist and international speaker, spearheading transformative conversations that transcend boundaries and inspire audiences worldwide. As the CEO of the Coaching and Positive Psychology (CaPP) Institute, her […]

  • Travels from: Atlanta, GA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (7)
Sam Silverstein

Sam Silverstein is a global authority on accountability, leadership, and organizational culture. With a mission to empower individuals and businesses to achieve extraordinary success, Sam inspires transformative change through the principles of accountability. By challenging leaders to shift their priorities, cultivate a culture of ownership, and inspire teams to operate at their highest potential, Sam […]

  • Travels from: St. Louis, MO
  • Organizational Culture
  • (32)
  • (1)
Connor Fields-cover-1, Connor Fields More Than a Champion

Connor Fields is more than just an elite athlete—he’s a symbol of perseverance, precision, and peak performance under pressure. As a three-time Olympian, two-time World Champion, and the first American to ever win Olympic gold in BMX racing, Connor brings a compelling story of excellence and grit to stages worldwide. With a career that spans […]

  • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
  • Summer Olympians
  • (34)
DJ Casey Connor

DJ Casey Connor is an internationally recognized celebrity DJ/Entertainer, highly sought after by an impressive collection of A-list clientele. Her dynamic approach to the turntables has given her a coveted celebrity following. Casey brings a fresh, feminine perspective to the events she DJ’s for. Casey Connor Entertainment is an entertainment/events company run by female DJ […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Mobile DJ
  • (63)
Nikki Stone

Nikki Stone is a world-renowned inspirational keynote speaker, Olympic gold medalist, and Amazon best-selling author. As the first American to win an Olympic gold medal in inverted aerial skiing, she has defied the odds and pushed the boundaries of human potential. Nikki’s journey is a testament to resilience, mental fortitude, and the power of perseverance. […]

  • Travels from: Beaufort, SC
  • Winter Olympians
  • (18)
  • (6)
Chris Bashinelli - Image 14 (January 22, 2026)

Chris Bashinelli, better known as “Bash”, is a celebrated Diversity, Equity & Inclusion speaker, Bash brings to life an inspiring message of empathy and connection that has birthed lifelong friendships around the world. He was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York to Lebanese and Italian-American parents. After a decade-long acting career including an appearance […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Diversity Speakers
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

AI Assistant
Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.