The Cosmopolitics Weekend Edit

Israel and Iran's new normal, Modi's moment and US sanctions on Venezuela.. with a twist, plus your lighter weekend fare

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Melinda French Gates, Rosario Dawson, and Fatoumata Bâ address the Global Inclusive Growth Summit;

Let's be honest, meetings of central bankers and finance types are typically more about boring charts and policy than charisma and star power. Yet, this year's gatherings were anything but dry, infused with a dose of celebrity from the likes of Elton John, Rosario Dawson, and Lilly Singh. At Mastercard’s Global Inclusive Growth Summit icons highlighted the intersection of entertainment, advocacy, and policy bringing attention to issues like financial inclusion, artificial intelligence, and climate action.

Several amazing women leaders also stood out to as venerable rockstars amid these celebrities - such as Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank. She's credited with slashing inflation in the Eurozone, even amid geopolitical upheaval, and weaving digital transformation and climate resilience into the bank's strategic agenda. Her sophistication and insightful approach have not only stabilized Europe's economy but also positioned her as a trailblazer for women in finance, blending style with substantial economic acumen.

Melinda French Gates, co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is making a hard push for women’s increased access to affordable capital. So is Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation—one of the world’s largest private foundations. Roy has revolutionized philanthropy in Africa by moving much of the foundation’s operations—and herself—to the continent, embodying the foundation’s commitment to listening and partnership. Under her leadership, billions have been directed towards empowering young Africans through education and employment, alongside substantial enhancements to the continent's health sector in response to COVID.

More on the global economy part of the meetings below!

Israel’s strategic slap on Iran…and a new normal in the Mideast