This page features original commentary and strategic reflections from Oliver Renwick, Managing Director of Palmes Advisory Group.

With nearly two decades of experience across government, diplomacy and cross-border investment, Oliver offers a perspective shaped by geopolitical fluency, cultural insight and the trusted counsel he provides to leaders at the highest level.

From emerging technologies and global capital flows to political risk and long-term strategy, his writing highlights the factors reshaping global development – and how decision-makers can respond with clarity, foresight and conviction.

These pieces are written for principals, policymakers and institutional leaders whose perspective is grounded in real-world experience.

London to Abu Dhabi: How the UAE Overtook the UK in Attracting Wealth, Innovation and Development

In the global competition for talent, capital and innovation, the tectonic plates are shifting. For decades, London stood unrivalled in Europe – and indeed the world – as a hub of economic energy, entrepreneurial dynamism and elite global living.

Lessons from the Gulf: Why Value-Add Matters More Than Ever

There was a time, not long ago, when the Gulf was seen by many international executives as an exotic fundraising stop. The perception was familiar: fly in, take 20 meetings in 48 hours, deliver a polished pitch and leave with a commitment in hand. Some did exactly that. A few even succeeded.

Space: The UAE’s Next Frontier

The United Arab Emirates has never been a nation content with the ordinary. From the world’s tallest towers to its thriving global capital markets, the country’s trajectory has been one of ambition, acceleration and strategic imagination. Nowhere is this more clearly exemplified than in its growing leadership in the field of space.