A lost chess game, a conversation with Mark Mobius and lessons in investing

Shortly before my presentation at the Nomad Capitalist conference in Kuala Lumpur, I suffered the misfortune of losing a tightly fought game of chess to a friend (Ruy Lopez opening). Any remorse was quickly compensated however! Just after the game had finished, I had the pleasure of meeting my dear friend Mark Mobius, a true titan of the investment industry who pioneered the concept of investing in emerging markets.

We sat down together beside the chess board and had a most rewarding conversation covering many topics ranging from the shifting dynamics of the new, developing world order to the practical wisdom contained in his latest book, The Book of Wealth, which focuses on how individuals can invest and build their personal wealth. Yet what stayed with me most was how naturally the board in front of us mirrored many of the themes of our conversation.

In chess, as in investment:
·       You must think several moves ahead not just react to the present.
·       Protecting your position is as important as making bold advances.
·       Diversification of pieces and strategies ensures resilience under pressure.
·       Sometimes the most powerful move is patience and waiting for the next right moment.
·       And just as pawns can become queens, small and steady investments can grow into transformative outcomes.
 
Meeting with Mark Mobius was, as always, a privilege and our conversation was a timely reminder that, whether on the chessboard or in global markets, success belongs to those who see beyond the immediate and plan for the long game.

#emergingmarkets #globalfinance #investment #chess