Walter Pasquarelli Keynote Speaker

Globally Recognised Generative AI & Data Expert
The Economist Presenter of "The Data Dividend"
Has Advised Google, Microsoft, Coca-Cola & Meta

Walter Pasquarelli's Biography

Walter Pasquarelli is a globally recognized writer, speaker, and expert on AI strategy and synthetic reality. He has advised Fortune 100 executives, world leaders, and royalty on the impact of generative technologies, shaping both business and government responses to AI.

Previously, Walter led AI thought leadership and advisory programs at The Economist Group, influencing global policy, public, and business perceptions of AI. He has been at the forefront of the concept of synthetic reality since 2019, a term later adopted by a global consulting firm. His expertise was sought by a European presidential candidate following the first major deepfake attack on a political figure in the region.

Walter also spearheaded the creation of the first globally focused AI Index, benchmarking national readiness for emerging technologies. He has provided strategic AI policy guidance to major corporations, including Google, Meta, Intel, Microsoft, and Coca-Cola, as well as to government leaders across the UK, US, Canada, the European Commission, UAE, Colombia, India, Thailand, and Serbia.

As a sought-after speaker and moderator, Walter has presented The Economist’s Data Dividend series, led panels at the World Economic Forum, and engaged with ministers and Fortune 100 C-suite executives on AI governance and strategy. Recognized among the top 16 speakers on ethical AI worldwide, he delivered over 50 lectures in 2024 alone on AI’s societal impact.

His insights have been featured in Forbes, POLITICO, Der Tagesspiegel, El Tiempo, the European Parliament, NATO, and cited by global leaders including London Mayor Sadiq Khan and the UAE Minister of State for AI.

Walter is an expert AI member at the OECD, recipient of the Prospect Public Policy Award from Cambridge University, an Affiliate Researcher at the Bennett School for Public Policy at Cambridge University, and a Member of the AI Advisory Board of the Welsh Government.

The Age of AI: The Generative Revolution and Its Impact on Humanity

In this session, Walter Pasquarelli explores the story of the Generative AI revolution and its impact on humanity. Attendees will uncover how this groundbreaking technology is reshaping the global economy, redefining creativity, and influencing the very fabric of society. Walter will illuminate the current advancements, future possibilities, and ethical considerations that accompany this transformative era. Building on Walter’s experience advising the global pioneers of AI development, this keynote aims to inspire participants to understand Generative AI not just as a technological advancement but as a pivotal force in shaping our collective future.

Key Outcomes:

Discover the foundational elements of Generative AI and its current applications across diverse fields—beyond the hype.
Explore how Generative AI is revolutionizing industries and altering traditional notions of creativity, economics, and authenticity.
Analyze the societal implications and ethical challenges posed by the widespread adoption of Generative AI.
Identify strategies for leveraging Generative AI to foster innovation and understand our place as humans within this new paradigm.
Envision the future landscape shaped by Generative AI and its potential to redefine human experiences and interactions.

Global AI Index: Insights from the Frontlines of Policy and Investment

Join Walter Pasquarelli for a critical session focused on mapping the global landscape of AI investments, regulations, and policies. Drawing on his experience in developing the world’s first AI Index, his work with the OECD and advising world leaders, Walter will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of how these factors are developing and interplay across different regions. This session will equip participants with the insights needed to navigate the complexities of the global AI ecosystem and inform their strategic decisions effectively.

Key Outcomes:

Develop a clear understanding of the global landscape of AI investments and regulations.
Identify key trends and patterns in AI governance across various regions.
Analyze the implications of diverse regulatory environments on global AI strategy.
Access actionable insights for informed decision-making in the AI space.

The C-Suite’s Guide to AI Readiness in Your Industry

In this targeted talk, Walter Pasquarelli presents an industry-specific analysis of AI opportunities and challenges. Drawing from his extensive advisory experience across various sectors, he will outline tailored strategies for adoption and integration, focusing on real-world applications that can elevate organizational performance. This session aims to equip attendees with the insights and capabilities necessary to lead their industries in AI readiness.

Key Outcomes:

Identify unique opportunities and challenges for AI adoption within their industry.
Navigate potential threats and develop mitigation strategies.
Create a roadmap for successful AI implementation tailored to organizational goals.
Empower teams to become AI-ready leaders in their sector.

Synthetic Reality: A Revolution That Will Transform What We See, Believe, and Feel

Join Walter Pasquarelli as he explores the concept of Synthetic Reality, a term he coined in 2019 long before the advent of generative technologies. With 90% of content online forecasted to be AI-generated, this session critically examines how synthetic media is reshaping our understanding of truth and authenticity in an increasingly digital world. Drawing from his experiences at The Economist group, and one the first political deepfake incident he advised a European President on, Walter will highlight the profound implications for industries, politics and individuals. Participants will walk away with a clear perspective on the ethical challenges and innovative opportunities that AI-generated synthetic media presents.

Key Outcomes:

Explore the implications of synthetic media on perception, truth, and knowledge.
Understand the transformative effects of synthetic media across various sectors.
Address ethical challenges associated with synthetic media and its impact on society.
Equip participants with strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of authenticity and trust in media.

He advises Fortune 100 executives, heads of state and global institutions on the strategic impact of generative technologies and AI policy, turning complex technological developments into clear direction for leaders.
He brings clarity to the intersection of AI strategy, synthetic reality and data governance, helping organisations decode opportunities and risks in the era of intelligent machines.
He draws on his leadership of AI thought-leadership programmes at The Economist Group and his roles with the OECD and the University of Cambridge to translate macro technology shifts into actionable frameworks for boards and senior teams.
He is a seasoned keynote speaker and moderator at high-profile forums, engaging C-suite audiences with insight that strengthens strategic planning and organisational readiness.
His briefings help leaders stress-test strategy, navigate ethical and regulatory complexity, and communicate confidently about the implications of AI to investors, clients and employees.

Videos of Walter Pasquarelli

How will AI change the global economy?

How generative AI is restructuring the economy

Comments & Testimonials

In a field often clouded by jargon, Walter offers a clear and incisive voice on AI and policy issues. He excels both as a moderator and speaker, and greatly helped uplevel our team’s understanding of key issues.

Google, Chief of Staff

It was a pleasure to work with Walter. He has been incredibly collaborative, accessible and responsive. He explained complicated areas of AI, its relevance for governments and businesses with ease, which helped us make our conversations even more engaging for a very international audience with varied amounts of experience with AI.

Coca-Cola, Global Director

Walter did an outstanding job as the Chair of the World Summit AI. His deep expertise, and ability to engage the audience made the summit a resounding success.

World Summit AI, Founder

Walter’s ability to blend deep topic knowledge with engagement is impressive.

The Economist

Walter has a unique talent for making even the most complex AI concepts feel accessible and intuitive.

Prime Minister’s Office of the Republic of Serbia

[Walter did a fantastic job] in simplifying both the opportunities and challenges ahead for public sector and industry leaders as they work to rebuild their country's competitiveness in the new era of AI. His approach, using images and real stories, is a very powerful way to provide a full perspective and deeply engage public sector leaders.

Intel, Global Director

Walter was really excellent- he got brilliant feedback from attendees and was great to deal with throughout.

Accenture