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FT journalist on African investment

David Pilling

Navigate the complexities of Africa's investment landscape with David Pilling, speaker, Financial Times journalist.

Trusted by Financial Times, World Bank, OECD, ADB

David Pilling

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United Kingdom

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David Pilling's biography

At a glance

  • Experienced journalist covering global business and politics
  • Africa editor and columnist at Financial Times
  • Author of acclaimed books on economics and Japan
David Pilling is the Africa editor and a columnist at the Financial Times. He covers business, politics, and development across the continent and writes a regular column on various African topics. Previously, he served as the Asia editor and assistant editor and held roles as Tokyo bureau chief, pharmaceuticals correspondent, deputy features editor, and correspondent in Buenos Aires and Santiago. David has authored two books: The Growth Delusion (2018), which was shortlisted for the Orwell Prize, and Bending Adversity: Japan and the Art of Survival (2016). He frequently moderates and speaks for the Financial Times and organisations such as the World Bank, OECD, and ADB. In 2023, he briefed a G7 meeting in Kamakura, Japan, on the concepts presented in The Growth Delusion.

Topics, sessions and talks

Unveiling Insights: China, Asia, And The Global Economy
Join David Pilling, the Associate Editor and Africa Editor at the Financial Times, and author of 'The Growth Delusion' and 'Bending Adversity,' as he delves into insightful analyses on China, Asia, and the global economic landscape. Drawing from his extensive expertise and authoritative commentary, David offers a unique perspective on these topics.
The Rising Africa Narrative
David Pilling's talk, "The Rising Africa Narrative," explores the continent's economic growth, debunking stereotypes and highlighting Africa's potential as a burgeoning market and hub of innovation.
Sustainability Challenges In Africa
David Pilling discusses the pressing sustainability challenges facing Africa, focusing on environmental, economic, and social issues that hinder the continent's sustainable development.

Why we recommend booking David

Book David Pilling to gain invaluable insights on Africa's investment landscape, sustainability challenges, and the future of democracy. His expertise will empower your team to navigate emerging opportunities and foster informed discussions on global trends.

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Trusted by Financial Times, World Bank, OECD, ADB

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frequently asked questions

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What topics does David Pilling specialise in?
David Pilling specialises in discussing business, politics, development and more.
What is David Pilling's speaking style like?
David delivers insightful commentary on African business and politics, engaging audiences with his expertise and experience. His presentations are well-received, fostering understanding of complex topics with clarity.
How can I book David Pilling for my next event?
Email david.pilling@getapeptalk.com or call us on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience. As speaker agents, PepTalk can secure David Pilling for commercial and corporate events, conference keynotes, leadership talks, celebrity brand endorsements & partnerships, personal appearances, and motivational speaking engagements. We can assist with enquiries about David Pilling's speaking fees, availability, and booking process for private business functions, industry conferences, and team events. Please note, for media interviews, autographs, charity appearances, or personal matters, we recommend contacting David Pilling directly.
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