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

    • (14)
    Julie Foudy

    Julie Foudy, former captain of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team and two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, is not only a sports legend but also a highly sought-after keynote speaker. With an illustrious career spanning nearly two decades, she has inspired millions through her achievements on the field and her leadership off it. As […]

    • Travels from: San Diego, CA
    • Sporting Speakers
    • (21)
    • Featured
    ViKA Victoria - Image 01 (February 17, 2026)

    For companies that care about deep work, ViKA Victoria’s teachings on leadership communication, authentic selling, and human connection are a game-changer. ViKA Victoria is a Ukrainian-American award-winning storyteller, global keynote speaker, and narrative strategist who has trained thousands of leaders from TED to Boston Consulting Group to YPO in authentic storytelling at work for cultural […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Culture Speakers
    • (29)
    Kelly McDonald

    Kelly McDonald is a nationally recognized marketing expert, with deep specialization in diversity marketing and business trends. She was named #1 on Successful Meetings magazine’s list of “26 Hot Speakers.” Kelly is the author of How to Market to People Not Like You and has been featured on CNBC, in BusinessWeek, on CNNMoney.com and on Sirius/XM Radio. She works […]

    • Travels from: Denver, CO
    • Branding Speakers
    • (10)
    • (4)

    The Swing Kittens are a vibrant and talented swing vocal trio hailing from the heart of Orange County, California. Renowned for their harmonious blend of vintage style and modern charisma, The Swing Kittens have quickly established themselves as a premier act in the entertainment industry. Their engaging performances captivate audiences with a nostalgic nod to […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Singers
    • (40)

    Jean Marie DiGiovanna is an international keynote speaker, leadership development expert, certified executive coach and best-selling author. With her body of work on Renaissance Leadership and over 25 years of experience across the globe, she helps leaders and their teams shift the way they think, lead and communicate rapidly creating a culture of increased trust, […]

    • Travels from: Denver, CO
    • Leadership Speakers
    • (11)
    Anna Maria Chavez

    The first woman of color to lead the iconic Girl Scouts of the USA in their 104-year-old history, Anna Maria Chávez is a renowned leadership expert who harnesses the power of technology and her passion for public service to transform organizations, earning her a place in U.S. News and World Report’s “STEM Leadership Hall of Fame” […]

    • Travels from: Trenton, NJ
    • Leadership Speakers
    • (32)
    Dr. Lisa D. Jenkins

    Dr. Lisa D Jenkins is a distinguished cultural strategist renowned for her expertise in cultivating environments of impactful cultural diversity within organizations. With a track record of excellence, she has garnered recognition as an award-winning professional speaker, empowering teams to thrive in multicultural settings. Lisa’s journey is enriched by her diverse background, including pivotal roles […]

    • Travels from: New York, NY
    • Diversity Speakers
    • (8)

    Greg Schwem is more than a comedian; Greg Schwem is a motivational corporate comedian. And the corporate world has taken note.  Greg’s take on the 21st century workplace and work/life balance has landed him on SIRIUS Radio, Comedy Central and the pages of Exceptional People Magazine. More than just a business humorist, Greg is also an author, nationally syndicated […]

    • Travels from: Chicago, IL
    • Motivational 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.

    Speakers Inc.

    Connecting you with the perfect speaker.

    We connect you with world-class speakers to create impactful, memorable events.

    Find the Perfect Speaker

    Tell us about your event and we’ll match you with the right speaker.

    © 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.