Planning in a Global Context: What CFP® Professionals Can Learn from the World Economic Forum 2025

CFP® Board In The News

The World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025 in Davos brought together global leaders to discuss emerging risks and opportunities shaping the world economy. For CFP® professionals, these high-level discussions might seem far removed from everyday client meetings—but the insights they offer are increasingly relevant to financial planning.

As the financial lives of clients become more interconnected with global markets, economic policy shifts, and technological change, it’s essential that planners develop a broader awareness of macroeconomic factors. Whether you’re advising a pre-retiree concerned about inflation or a business owner navigating supply chain disruptions, understanding the global economic context enhances the depth and relevance of your advice.

Key Takeaways from WEF 2025 and Their Planning Implications

  • 1 Resilience in the Face of Economic Volatility: Emphasizes the need for portfolios and plans that are durable under stress—through diversification, liquidity buffers, and scenario analysis.
  • 2 The AI-Driven Economic Shift: Technological change affects careers, income, and business value—especially for younger clients and business owners.
  • 3 Climate and Sustainability Finance: ESG investing remains a key interest. Advisors should understand values-based investing and long-term climate risk impacts.
  • 4 Shifting Global Demographics: Demographic trends influence sector demand, estate planning, and international strategy.
  • 5 Trust in Institutions and Risk Perception: Declining institutional trust highlights the need for transparent communication and client-focused guidance.

Applying Global Insights to Client Advice

Even if clients aren’t watching global summits, they experience the effects—through inflation, volatility, and market confidence. Planners can translate trends into guidance by:

  • Reviewing global investment risk and inflation exposure
  • Stress-testing projections against economic shifts
  • Advising business clients on labor and trade dynamics
  • Addressing global influences on retirement income and estate planning

The Global Planner’s Mindset

Being globally informed doesn’t require macroeconomic expertise, but it does mean tracking broad themes and adapting advice accordingly. Planners who bring global awareness into client conversations provide clarity and confidence, particularly during uncertain times.

Conclusion

CFP® professionals serve clients in a world that is no longer financially insular. Events in Davos may not dictate a client’s daily budget, but they influence inflation, interest rates, and investment confidence. By tracking global signals and translating them into sound advice, planners expand their role from advisor to strategic guide in an increasingly complex world.

Sources:

  1. World Economic Forum – Davos 2025 Official Agenda and Recap: https://www.weforum.org/events/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2025
  2. Financial Times – “Top 5 Takeaways from Davos 2025”: https://www.ft.com/content/davos-2025-key-insights
  3. IMF – “Global Economic Outlook 2025”: https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/WEO
Posted in CFP in the News

About Shawn Janes