Global Conference 2020

Role of the Corporation: Between Shareholders and Stakeholders

"Corporations exist principally to serve their shareholders." This has been the mantra throughout a postwar period that has cut extreme poverty by more than half. Yet an increasing share of society feels that the role of corporations should go beyond what's best for shareholders. As income has converged globally, the divergence of domestic wealth has given rise to a public discussion questioning capitalism in general. With politicians increasingly willing to debate a financial system that was once considered almost sacrosanct, can influential CEOs stay on the sidelines? And how can we ensure an economy that focuses on sustainable growth, prosperity, and equal opportunity for all?