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

  • (7)
Donna Maine

Donna Maine is an LA-based clean, corporate comedian and comedy writer (or less clean, depending on situation) who performs across the country. Her comedic insights run the gamut; including relationships, kids, medical background, and coping with middle-age in a post-millennial world. Donna has been bringing the laughter to all the major comedy clubs, the Burbank […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Comedian Performers
  • (53)
  • (3)
Chris Barton

In a world where technology has become an integral part of our lives, Chris Barton stands out as a visionary who has not only revolutionized the way we interact with it but has also epitomized the spirit of innovation and perseverance. As the creator of the iconic app Shazam, Barton’s journey from ideation to acquisition […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (17)
  • Featured
Kai-Fu Lee - Image 01 (March 16, 2026)

Dr. Kai-Fu Lee is a a venture capitalist, technology executive, writer, and an artificial intelligence expert. The Chairman and CEO of Sinovation Ventures and President of Sinovation Venture’s Artificial Intelligence Institute, Dr. Lee was the Vice President of Google, President of Google China and previously held executive positions at Microsoft, SGI, and Apple.  In 2023, he […]

  • Travels from: Beijing, China
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (9)
Lisa-Marie Burnside

Lisa-Marie Burnside has a passion for life, something that is apparent the moment you meet her. An avid fitness enthusiast and former marathon runner, she found herself on the hunt for something that would allow more self-expression and creativity, while still getting a great workout. Aerial dance was the answer. With over 10 years of […]

  • Travels from: Altadena, CA
  • Aerial Performers
  • (57)
Alden Mills

Alden Mills is on a mission to help 100 million people Be Unstoppable. With more than 40 years of experience failing and succeeding in a vast array of different environments from sports, military, and business to nonprofits and community action groups, he learned success is driven by one vital factor – leadership – of oneself […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (32)

David Avrin is a leading authority in marketing, branding, and customer experience, widely recognized as The Visibility Coach. As one of the most sought-after keynote speakers worldwide, he delivers high-energy, content-rich presentations that engage and inspire audiences across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. From Singapore to Dubai, David’s global reach reflects his […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Customer Experience
  • (16)
  • (8)
Bruce Turkel - Image 09 (March 9, 2026)

Bruce Turkel is a dynamic and sought-after speaker renowned for his expertise in branding, creativity, innovation, and leadership. With over three decades of experience in the advertising industry, Bruce has honed his skills as a captivating presenter who delivers actionable insights with humor and flair. His overarching theme, “it’s all about them,” challenges audiences to […]

  • Travels from: Miami, FL
  • Sales Speakers
  • (290)
  • (6)
Erin Hatzikostas: Business Growth

Erin Hatzikostas is a former Corporate CEO turned Professional Pot-Stirrer. Erin is an internationally recognized leader on the impact of authenticity in the workplace. She is the founder of b Authentic Inc, where she’s leading a movement to eradicate the workplace of its BS and make it a fundamentally more authentic place. She is a […]

  • Travels from: Marlborough, CT
  • Leadership 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.