World Business Forum: Rapid-fire advice from David Rubenstei
Published: Oct 06, 2009
The bottom line, according to the co-founder of the Carlyle Group, is that inflation is coming, unemployment rates are rising to the point where 7 or 8 percent will be the new normal, benefits such as Medicare and Medicaid are facing drastic cuts, and the deficit is going to have to be dealt with. In short: a much bleaker future for the US. “We are much less significant than we were before” in terms of being a world economic power, he says.
Growth, too, seems to be a thing of the past in the U.S., with Rubenstein predicting growth rates of 1 to 2 percent in coming years, compared to rates over 10 percent in developing economies.
Also, financial centers are shifting away from New York, and the sector is likely to be much less attractive in years to come as a place to work.So is there a good side? (Apologies for the note form that follows, but that’s all I had time to get down):
Hot areas in coming years: “Distressed investing…is one of the most attractive areas.” Energy. Both carbon-related and alternative energy. Healthcare: because of the baby boomers. From 17 percent of GDP now to around 20 percent in a few years. Natural resources.
Advice for leaders: “Focus on areas that are likely to grow.” If you’re talented but in a bad area, it’s unlikely that you’ll succeed.
“Avoid leverage.”
“Don’t take no for an answer. Persist.”
“Take some entrepreneurial risk in your career.”
“Improve your skills of persuasion”—one of the most important elements in business.
“Think like a leader. Don’t think like a follower.”
“Get talented partners.”
“Don’t worry about making money over the longer term.”
“If you’re really good at what you do, money will flow to you.”
“You’ve got to love what you do. If you don’t love it, think about what else you could do”—this from a man who’s had multiple careers.
Jeffrey Sachs is up next.
--Posted by Phil Stott, Vault Staff Writer