It is virtually impossible to examine the intersection of geopolitics, energy and markets without understanding Saudi Arabia.
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Ellen R. Wald
Global Energy Authority & Author of Saudi, Inc.
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It is virtually impossible to examine the intersection of geopolitics, energy and markets without understanding Saudi Arabia. Global energy authority Ellen R. Wald brings incomparable expertise on the kingdom and its worldwide impact. Known for her jargon-free analysis, historian’s perspective and for providing rich context on the impact of geopolitics on markets and commerce, Dr. Wald’s keynotes include invaluable insights for investors, the energy sector, and oil services firms. Her perspective is also essential for anyone interested in the future of energy, oil, Aramco (and its IPO), emerging energy technology, energy policy, the balance of power in the Middle East, the Saudi relationship with Israel, and the actors shaping the region and its economies.
A prolific writer on energy markets and scholar on the history of Western influence in the Middle East, Dr. Wald is the foremost authority on the Saudi national oil company, Aramco. Her new book, Saudi, Inc.: The Arabian Kingdom’s Pursuit of Profit and Power presents the history of Aramco, its central role in the evolution of the kingdom and its preparation for the largest IPO in history. Steve Forbes called Saudi, Inc. “crucial reading” and “a timely masterpiece.” Dr. Wald is also the founder of Transversal Consulting, guiding businesses in a range of industries—from oil services to management consulting to utilities to finance—on the confluence of energy markets and geopolitics. She brings a rich background as an award-winning educator and lecturer with over a decade of university teaching experience and past positions at the University of Georgia, the American Heritage Center, and the University of Cambridge. Dr. Wald received a Ph.D. from Boston University where she studied energy, diplomatic, and economic history and graduated from Princeton University with studies in history, Near Eastern studies, and creative writing.” She is currently a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council and teaches Middle East history and policy at Jacksonville University. She also writes three weekly columns: at investing.com on geopolitics and the energy markets, at Forbes online addressing energy topics for a broader audience, and at Arab News on business in the Gulf region.
In a world where energy, the environment, technology and geopolitics are tightly intertwined and often mentioned together, Dr. Wald brings an analyst’s acuity, realistic view, and multi-faceted understanding to key subjects. Able to speak to a range of audiences and tailor her presentations to their areas of interest, she provides a fascinating perspective on the evolving energy sector and the complex politics that drive it.
