Shaping Reputation and Policy in Emerging Markets

The Speyside Latin America team analyzes the seismic shift in Venezuela following the U.S. military operation "Operation Absolute Resolve" and the arrest of Nicolás Maduro in January 2026. This event has triggered a Crisis management scenario, resulting in a transitional government under Delcy Rodríguez subject to direct U.S. oversight. With the world's largest proven oil reserves of 303 billion barrels and vast critical mineral deposits, Venezuela presents high-stakes opportunities for investors in high growth and emerging markets. Our analysis covers the immediate bullish reaction in the energy sector—with major gains for companies like Chevron and Halliburton—and the strategic race to secure assets in the Orinoco Mining Arc. Navigating this volatile landscape requires robust Corporate Affairs strategies to manage regulatory changes and complex stakeholder engagement.

The Speyside Healthcare team forecasts that 2026 will be a year of structured reform, following a 2025 defined by sharp contrasts between rising geopolitical risks and scientific breakthroughs. As supply chains face pressure from tariffs and "Most Favoured Nation" policies, the industry requires robust Crisis management strategies to navigate pricing volatility. Our analysis highlights a critical shift in high-growth and emerging markets toward value-based healthcare, the integration of AI-driven diagnostics, and a renewed Corporate Affairs focus on the global infertility crisis.

The Speyside Latin America team is closely monitoring the volatile situation in Venezuela, a resource-rich nation that remains a complex puzzle for emerging markets investors. With vast reserves but significant political instability, the energy and mining sectors face a critical window for strategic positioning. Navigating this landscape requires robust Corporate Affairs Latin America strategies and Crisis management planning to handle potential scenarios ranging from political continuity to negotiated transition.