Event Recap – 2026 Annual Global Economic Update at Johnson Matthey

On March 4, 2026, the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia (BABCPHL) hosted its Annual Global Economic Update at Johnson Matthey in Wayne, Pennsylvania. The evening convened leaders from across the region’s international business community to discuss the economic forces shaping the year ahead, particularly at the intersection of global trade, energy transformation, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. 

Guests began the evening with networking before gathering in Johnson Matthey’s CVS Lab for the program. Zac Taormina, Regional Operations Director for the Americas at Johnson Matthey and President of the BABCPHL welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of understanding how technological innovation, energy policy, and international trade are increasingly intertwined for companies operating across global markets. 

The program opened with a fireside conversation moderated by Emanuel Adam, Chief Trade and Policy Officer at BritishAmerican Business. He was joined by Ryan Wang, U.S. Economist at HSBC, and Krista Johnson, U.S. President of Johnson Matthey. Ryan outlined the global economic outlook, noting that while trade uncertainty has persisted for more than a year, most economies continue to experience modest growth. He highlighted the resilience of the U.S. economy, which remains less exposed to trade shocks than many other markets. Krista offered the perspective of a global business leader navigating these dynamics in real time, emphasizing that the U.S.–UK relationship remains fundamental to many multinational companies. Krista also underscored the importance of stepping back to ensure that the regions where businesses operate are positioned for sustainable, circular, and long-term economic success; a perspective that set the stage for our panel discussion. 

The panel featured Joe Fedeyko, Business Development Director for Clean Air Solutions at Johnson Matthey; Adam Walters, Senior Energy Advisor at the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development; Nick Stapp, President and CEO of One+ AI Strategies; and Ciaran Pocock, Deputy Director of Trade at the UK Department for Business and Trade. 

Joe first reflected on the evolution of the energy sector, noting that many technologies often described today as “new” have in fact been known and planned for within the industry for years. What has changed, he explained, is the urgency and scale of implementation as markets accelerate the energy transition. Across the industry, manufacturers and energy suppliers are accustomed to navigating policy shifts and changing market conditions, making adaptation and resilience core capabilities regardless of the political environment or administration in power. 

Adam followed Joe’s remarks, mentioning Pennsylvania’s evolving energy strategy. He highlighted the Commonwealth’s EDGE plan, which seeks to attract investment and position the state as a hub for emerging industries, including energy innovation and advanced infrastructure. He noted that 2026 is shaping up to be a significant year for energy policy as Pennsylvania continues to refine strategies that support economic development while preparing for heightened energy demand and technological innovation. 

Dr. Nick Stapp addressed the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence, noting that while some have raised concerns about a potential AI bubble, adoption across industries is accelerating quickly. Many organizations are experimenting with the technology and, in some cases, revisiting early implementation decisions as they learn from initial deployments. At the same time, the rise of AI-driven systems and data centers is placing new demands on energy infrastructure, further connecting the technology and energy sectors. 

Ciaran concluded by emphasizing the continued strength of the U.S.–UK trade relationship. Despite broader global uncertainty, he noted that transatlantic trade has remained steady and continues to provide opportunities for collaboration in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, clean technology, and digital innovation. From the British government angle, his team continues to be in these on-the-ground discussions to evaluate the best ways the Department for Business & Trade can continue to help our region. 

The evening ran slightly over schedule, with time for one final audience question. Many attendees lingered afterward, engaging the speakers in conversation and exploring ideas sparked during the discussion. That lively exchange captured the essence of the program’s central theme: in a world defined by uncertainty, meaningful dialogue, adaptability, and cross-border collaboration are crucial for navigating complex challenges—both for businesses and policymakers. 

 View photos here.