In an era of shifting alliances and regulatory flux, financial actors face a landscape shaped by geopolitical instability, sanctions regimes, the rise of regional energy blocs, and the mounting security risks of climate change. This opening session sets the stage for the summit, charting the forces reshaping capital flows, market access, and cross-border cooperation—and exploring how leaders can navigate volatility without losing sight of long-term sustainability.

Global finance is being reshaped by fractured geopolitics, shifting regulatory regimes, and the emergence of regional energy blocs. Sanctions, supply chain disruptions, and climate-related security risks are redefining market dynamics. This panel examines how financial leaders can adapt strategies, mitigate cross-border risk, and seize opportunities in an era where political volatility is the new normal.

As Canada navigates the twin pressures of decarbonization and competitiveness, financial institutions face a strategic pivot: how to integrate climate alignment into core operations without undermining growth. This panel explores the structural shifts—governance, capital allocation, risk management, and disclosure—that can enable a resilient, profitable, and low-carbon financial system.

Finance is no longer a bystander in the climate transition—it is a catalyst. This panel examines how sustainable finance can move beyond risk mitigation to actively direct capital toward transformative climate solutions. From innovative instruments to blended finance models, we explore the tools, policies, and partnerships that can scale impact while delivering competitive returns.

Understanding how physical climate impacts credit losses in SMSB loan portfolios. Floods, wildfires, and extreme weather are no longer distant threats—they’re material credit risks. This panel examines how physical climate impacts can drive loan defaults for small- and mid-sized businesses (SMSBs). Industry experts will discuss data-driven risk assessment, portfolio stress testing, and adaptation strategies to protect both lenders and borrowers in a more volatile climate.

Artificial intelligence promises to transform climate and ESG finance—enhancing data quality, accelerating disclosure, and identifying emerging risks. But it also raises questions about bias, accountability, and regulatory oversight. This panel explores the opportunities and pitfalls of AI-driven decision-making in sustainable finance, offering insights into governance, trust, and the balance between innovation and prudence.