The global landscape in 2025 presents complex challenges and opportunities for businesses, governments, and individuals navigating global mobility. This handout applies the Global Mobility Drivers to assess how geopolitical risks, economic markets, labor markets, the war for talent, and migration shape mobility trends.

1. Market Volatility Awareness: The U.S. administration’s announcement of new tariffs led to sharp declines in Asian and European stock markets, with investors seeking safe-haven assets like gold. This underscores the need for Global Mobility leaders to monitor geopolitical events closely, as such developments can lead to sudden economic shifts affecting business operations and employee mobility.​
2. Strategic Planning for Mobility Programs: The imposition of tariffs and the resultant market reactions may influence corporate decisions regarding international assignments, expansions, or relocations. GM leaders should assess how these economic changes impact cost structures and the feasibility of current or planned mobility programs.​ 
3. Risk Management and Compliance: With tariffs introduced on over 180 countries and territories, there is an increased need for compliance with evolving trade regulations. GM leaders must ensure that mobility policies remain compliant and consider potential risks associated with assignments in affected regions.​ 
4. Employee Support and Communication: The economic uncertainty caused by such geopolitical actions can affect assignees’ morale and financial well-being. Transparent communication and support structures are essential for addressing concerns and maintaining engagement among mobile employees.​

Geopolitical Risk Dashboards

The BlackRock Geopolitical Risk Dashboard is an analytical tool designed to monitor and assess market attention to top geopolitical risks. It utilizes the BlackRock Geopolitical Risk Indicator (BGRI), which tracks the frequency and sentiment of brokerage reports and financial news related to specific geopolitical events. This indicator provides a score reflecting the level of market focus on each risk compared to a five-year historical baseline. The dashboard provides insights into the likelihood and potential market impacts of these risks, helping investors understand how geopolitical developments may affect financial markets.

The International SOS Risk Outlook 2025 report, developed in partnership with Ipsos, draws on the expertise of over 800 global leaders and specialists to identify key risks that will impact organizations in 2025. While the full report requires registration for access, it serves as an invaluable resource for leaders navigating uncertain times by highlighting emerging threats and trends in health and security. 

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Handout 106: The Four C’s of Global Mobility – Compliance, Cost, Career and Care – Weinberger, 2025

PS: I’m currently working on a new Global Mobility textbook with the working title “Global Mobility: The Taxation and Management of Internationally Mobile Employees.” If you’d like to stay updated on my publications, you can sign up here: http://eepurl.com/dpfrrf.

If you are on this list, you will always be invited to our book launch parties in Zurich, Switzerland, and you will be the first to know about new publications. We usually only send you a quarterly update of our activities and upcoming launches (3 to 4 emails a year).

I’m also developing a new program and workbook called “The Global Mobility Coach Journal,” which explains my business model and guides you in building a thriving business as an expat coach. 

Further Resources for Researchers and Global Mobility Students

WEBINAR 1o MARCH 2025