Three prominent CEOs contributed guest perspectives to CNBC.com’s “Heard in Davos” blog during this week’s World Economic Forum, offering unique insights from the annual gathering of global leaders.
Alcatel-Lucent CEO Ben Verwaayen, Infosys CEO Kris Gopalakrishnan, and Nasdaq OMX CEO Robert Greifeld sat down with CNBC’s Ross Westgate to reflect on their forum experiences and the current economic climate.
Moving Beyond “Doom and Gloom” Mentality
Verwaayen observed that attendees must move past negative thinking to recapture the true spirit of Davos. “People will only take you seriously if you say how bad things are,” he noted, criticizing this prevailing attitude.
The telecommunications executive found inspiration in meetings with technology innovators, describing them as “young people with great ideas” who want to “get out of the blocks and go and do it.”
Focus on Solutions Over Problems
Gopalakrishnan emphasized the need for concrete action from both corporate and political leaders. “It’s time to focus on solutions to ongoing economic problems rather than lamenting what has happened,” the Infosys leader stated.
Beyond economic discussions, the Indian executive also promoted the benefits of vegetarianism during forum conversations.
Financial System Repair Essential for Recovery
Greifeld presented a clear prerequisite for economic improvement. “The economy cannot recover from recession until the financial system has been put back in good order,” the Nasdaq OMX CEO asserted. “Without working banks there can’t be a recovery.”
The executives’ commentary comes as global business and political leaders grapple with ongoing economic challenges at the high-profile Swiss summit.
Relation topics:
- CNBC’s Top Blogs of the Year: A Battle of Greed, Buffett, and Baseball Scandals
- Apple Unveils iPhone 2.0 Software, $100M iFund at Cupertino Event
- How Long Does It Take to Make Money Blogging?
