The annual CEIR Predict Conference caters to forward-thinking executive leaders dedicated to fostering innovation and securing the industry’s future. This year’s conference brings together leading AI innovators, economists, business intelligence specialists and political analysts to collaborate with industry experts in providing a comprehensive outlook on timely global trends.

Here, we look at the sessions that will be presented at Predict 2024 and the insights attendees will gain to help them make better decisions and keep their strategies­ competitive in a rapidly changing world.

Navigating the Global Landscape: Insights on Economy, Geopolitics, and Exhibitions

The global economy and political landscape are deeply intertwined, shaping business climates, trade patterns, and international partnerships. Adam Sacks, President of Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics Company, will offer key insights on these topics. He will explain the CEIR Index, its relevance to different market sectors, and how our industry can use CEIR data to make smarter choices. The session will also cover the current economic situation, its effects on exhibitions, and predictions for future impacts. Attendees will learn how to tackle challenges, spot market opportunities, and make strategic moves in our fast-changing world.

Geopolitical Landscape and Its Impact

The U.S. faces many complex risks in today’s changing world, which can affect businesses, including those in exhibitions and events. These risks range from political tensions to economic uncertainties and tech disruptions. Dane Chamorro, Partner at Control Risks and Head of Global Risk Analysis and Business Intelligence for the Americas, will give an overview of the current global situation and focus on key political risks that businesses need to watch out for.

Chamorro will explore how these risks might affect the exhibition and events industry, including potential problems with supply chains, changes in regulations, and unpredictable markets. He will also share practical advice and strategies to help organizations prepare for and adapt to these challenging times. By understanding the political landscape and managing risks proactively, businesses can not only protect themselves but also find new ways to grow and become more resilient in our changing world.

The Future of Risk

Uncertainty is a given in our risky world. Throughout Predict, attendees will hear forecasts about various risk areas. Matt Carmichael, Senior Vice President at Ipsos’ Global Trends & Foresight and Editor of What the Future, will delve into how to think about these topics as a whole. He will guide attendees on preparing for likely scenarios in the exhibitions industry by introducing big-picture forces and trends shaping the future, as well as explain how these trends can affect brand image and reputation risks. This session will also provide an overview of tools and methods futurists use to help organizations create powerful planning scenarios, assess risks, prepare for uncertain futures and understand the potential backlash to these preparations.

The Future of AI in Exhibitions and Events

Leading AI Innovator and Practitioner Noelle Russell, Founder and Chief AI Officer of the AI Leadership Institute, will explore how AI is changing the exhibitions and events industry. She will focus on both generative and applied AI technologies, and share real-world examples that include more than a dozen AI models that can improve business operations, create groundbreaking solutions and drive growth. While highlighting AI opportunities, Russell will also address potential risks, challenges, and ethical concerns. Attendees will learn how AI can support human creativity rather than replace it – ideal for organizations looking to boost innovation, make their applications more accessible and understand AI’s practical uses in their field.

Decoding the AI Revolution: Artificial Intelligence Today and Tomorrow

Sean Watson, Futurist and Senior Vice President of Special Projects at Trend Hunter, will offer key insights on the ongoing AI revolution and its future potential. His keynote will cover real-world AI applications, industry progress and AI’s impact across various sectors. Watson will highlight current AI trends, challenges, and opportunities for businesses and society as well as show how AI is reshaping our present and future. In today’s tech-driven world, all businesses need to leverage technology. This session will teach attendees how to stay relevant and succeed in the digital age by embracing AI’s powerful influence.

Navigating the Election Impact: A Trade Show Organizers’ Guide to Preparing for 2024’s Uncertainties

The 2024 U.S. presidential election is expected to be a nail-biter, with the outcome uncertain until the very end. Despite this, future event planning is already in motion. The ability to predict and imagine different futures based on possible election results is key to making smart planning choices. Dr. Clifford Young, President of U.S. Public Affairs at IPSOS, will provide a thorough overview of the global political scene, focusing on the upcoming U.S. presidential election.

Young will share the latest predictions on each candidate’s chances of winning, as well as outline various scenarios showing how the business landscape might change depending on who wins and what these changes could mean for the trade show industry. He will also discuss key factors that organizers should consider in their event planning strategies to ensure future success.

A Look Back and The Road Ahead: Unveiling Insights for Tomorrow’s World

Predict 2024’s closing keynote features Dr. Sam Potolicchio, President of Preparing Global Leaders Forum and Founding Executive Director of the Center for Global Leadership at American Councils. Potolicchio will explore a broad range of global issues including political, social and environmental developments. His presentation will challenge attendees to think critically about the future, provide insights into potential trends shaping our world and offer a deeper understanding of upcoming developments. He will also review his predictions from last year, discussing which ones came true and which did not.

Learn more about Predict 2024 and request an invitation to attend here!

Get even more bang for your buck by attending the AI Innovation Masterclass with Trend Hunter’s Jeremy Gutsche the day prior.