Energy & Geopolitics In A Changing World: Dr Carole Nakhle, Crystol Energy

Our host, Stuart Broadley, is joined by Dr Carole Nakhle, Founder and CEO of Crystol Energy, for a wide-ranging conversation on geopolitics, energy markets and the resilience of the global energy system. Drawing on her expertise in energy economics, policy and market development, Carole explores the challenges facing the UAE, Iran, Europe and Africa — and what happens when governments and businesses have their backs to the wall.

The discussion examines the UAE’s efforts to protect energy security and maintain trust with global markets, Iran’s struggle for economic and political survival, and Europe’s growing concerns around energy costs, competitiveness and deindustrialisation. Carole also looks at Africa’s enormous potential, from its young and growing population to its vast reserves of oil, gas, minerals and critical materials, while highlighting the importance of stable institutions, predictable policies and investment.

At the heart of the conversation is a broader question: how should the energy industry prepare for a future where geopolitical shocks are impossible to predict? Carole argues for a more long-term view of risk, resilience and investment — focusing less on predicting every crisis and more on building infrastructure, partnerships and businesses capable of weathering whatever comes next.