drs. Adjiedj Bakas

‘If you can’t laugh, don’t start a business’ is the motto of trendwatcher Adjiedj Bakas (b.1963). Identifying economic, technological, demographic, environmental, spiritual and security trends has been his core business throughout his working life. He is of Indian origin, was born and raised in Latin-America and has lived in Europe for more than 28 years. In The Netherlands where he currently lives, he was elected ‘Immigrant Businessman of the Year’ in 2008 and ‘Trendwatcher of the Year’ in 2009. He has sold more than 500,000 books worldwide and was one of the first commentators to predict the current economic crisis – and the path to recovery.

Adjiedj Bakas has written a number of authoritative books, including Beyond the Crisis (about the future of capitalism), World Megatrends (about the future of humanity) and Living Without Oil (co-authored with fellow trendwatcher Rob Creemers). All his books are currently being translated into Chinese. Professor Wang Jianmao, one of China’s leading economists and economic consultant to the central government in Beijing has said: ‘His books may change your life.’

Adjiedj Bakas is known as an exciting, stimulating, expert, humorous, visionary and entertaining speaker. His ability to share his knowledge in an entertaining way makes him a much sought-after speaker at conferences and other gatherings. According to the press he is 'optimistic' (CNN), ‘engaging’ (BBC), ‘inspiring’ (The Guardian), ‘very knowledgeable and with star appeal’ (China Daily) and 'provocative' (TV2 Magazine, Denmark).

He delivers lectures for companies, governments and universities including CEIBS (China Europe International Business School) in Shanghai and Emory University, Atlanta (US). He can tailor his lectures for small audiences, such as the Boards of multinationals (clients include DSM, Corus/Tata, ABN AMRO Bank, ING Bank and Rabobank), audiences of 50-100 people (clients include Deloitte, Apple, Microsoft, Pepsi, KPMG, the Parliaments of Hungary, the government of Austria) and larger audiences of up to 1,000 people. In The Netherlands he hosts his own TV show about the future which will soon be broadcast in China.

His lecture themes include:
• How to capitalize on the opportunities of the current world economic crisis.
• How companies can make the best use of ‘economic warfare’ in difficult financial situations.
• Leadership in the transfer to the new energy economy.
• What to do when too many people want too much.
• Demographics and their consequences for business.
• Leadership for tomorrow.
• Ethics and business spirituality.

With roots in three continents Adjiedj Bakas has a unique style and identity which blends Indian, European and Latino influences. He has been described as ‘a true citizen of the world’ (Times of India). He is widely travelled and erudite and combines expertise and knowledge with a strong sense of humour. He is a passionate art collector.