David Rennie Keynote Speaker

David Rennie is a distinguished journalist and editor with decades of experience reporting on global politics, economics, and international relations. He served as the Beijing Bureau Chief and Chaguan Columnist for The Economist for six years, where his insightful analysis of China and its role in the world informs readers worldwide. With a career that spans continents and crises, David has become a trusted voice in analyzing complex geopolitical landscapes.

David’s tenure at The Economist reflects his deep expertise and versatility. He joined the publication in 2007 as European Union Correspondent and Charlemagne Columnist, reporting from Brussels during a transformative period for the EU. During this time, he co-created the Drum Tower podcast, alongside Alice Su, which explores China’s complexities and its interactions with the world.

From 2010-12, David served as the British Political Editor and author of the Bagehot column in London, analyzing the complexities of British politics and its evolving relationship with Europe. He moved to Washington, D.C. where he became Lexington Columnist and later Washington Bureau Chief, providing incisive commentary on U.S. politics and policy during a time of profound political polarization.

Returning to London in 2024, David assumed the role of Geopolitics Editor and launched The Telegram, a column that examines the shifting dynamics of global power and conflict in the modern era.

As a speaker and commentator, David draws on his unparalleled experience reporting from Europe, the U.S., and China. His ability to connect local events to global trends makes him a sought-after voice on geopolitics, international relations, and the role of media in a changing world.