Borge Brende resigns as World Economic Forum chief after an independent probe found ties to Jeffrey Epstein; Brende had ongoing contact with Epstein after Epstein's conviction, but the review said no new concerns beyond what had been disclosed.
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, the White House reportedly left Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan off a guest list for a reception honoring Donald Trump, highlighting a growing rift between Trump and major financial sector leaders.
President Trump’s Air Force One aborted its flight to Davos due to a reported “minor electrical issue,” prompting a return to Washington while he continued to Davos aboard a backup aircraft; the episode highlights the aging presidential fleet and ongoing delays in replacing the jets, as security and logistics for the World Economic Forum proceed.
At Davos, Donald Trump will attend in person with what organizers describe as the largest U.S. delegation yet, as the World Economic Forum hosts nearly 3,000 leaders from business and politics. While Nvidia's Jensen Huang and other tech chiefs are on hand, several heavyweights — Xi Jinping, Lula da Silva, Narendra Modi — are absent or not expected to speak, and Denmark has declined attendance amid Greenland tensions. The forum focuses on geopolitics, AI, climate and growth, with Trump slated to speak midweek and his delegation including Rubio, Scott Bessent, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
Trump arrives at Davos with one of the largest U.S. delegations as debates over globalization, tariffs, and the future of multilateral institutions intensify, signaling a new reality for the world order even as leaders stress dialogue and note shifts in partnerships (e.g., EU-Brazil trade talks and Canada–China signals).
The World Economic Forum cleared Klaus Schwab of misconduct after an investigation found no evidence of material wrongdoing, leading to a reorganization of its board with Larry Fink and André Hoffmann appointed as interim chairs, amidst previous allegations and internal issues.
The founder of the World Economic Forum, Klaus Schwab, has stepped down amid allegations of sending inappropriate emails, practicing workplace harassment, and misusing funds, though he denies the misconduct. An internal probe revealed a culture of bullying and misconduct at the organization, leading to Schwab's resignation after the investigation was launched.
The World Economic Forum in Davos is abuzz with discussions on artificial intelligence, with upcoming events featuring the president of Israel, a panel on BRICS consensus, and a discussion on decarbonizing emerging markets. Argentine President Javier Milei made a passionate speech in support of business leaders, while JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon discussed diversity efforts and global democracy. The event also saw displays of support for LGBTQ rights and efforts to secure the release of a reporter wrongfully detained in Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the Davos delegates, urging them to help defeat Putin and invest in Ukraine's rebuilding, while also highlighting the need for continued support in the ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, Bill Gates showcased portable life-saving medical devices at the WEF and emphasized the importance of accelerating health innovations. The WEF also featured sessions on finance, global cooperation, and the future of banking, with notable attendees including leaders from JPMorgan Chase, the IMF, and Microsoft. Additionally, attendees grumbled about shuttle services, while Wyclef Jean and Al Gore made appearances at various events.