Sir Mark’s mantra for leaders and attracting FDI

SIR Mark Tucker, delivering the keynote address at the Chairman and CEOs Forum organised by the Sri Lanka Institute of Directors at Port City Colombo, presented a clear framework for leadership and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), emphasising Sri Lanka’s need to reposition itself in an increasingly fragmented global economy.

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Having served as Chairman of the HSBC Banking Group and now Non-Executive Chair AIA Group and Discovery Group of South Africa, Tucker stressed that Sri Lanka must pivot from crisis management to building the capabilities required for sustained economic growth.

Global corporate influence

Beyond his corporate leadership, Sir Mark has contributed significantly to global economic policy. He has served on the Court of the Bank of England and participated in several international bodies shaping financial regulation, trade, and global economic cooperation. In recognition of his contributions to business and finance, he was knighted by King Charles III in 2024.

Mobilising capital

Speaking on “Reconnecting to Capital and Repositioning Sri Lanka in a Fragmented World,” Tucker acknowledged Sri Lanka’s progress in stabilising its economy following the recent crisis. However, he emphasised that stabilisation alone is insufficient to attract long-term investment. “The next stage of growth will rely on country capabilities, not just conditions,” he said, highlighting the need to clearly define investment-enabling conditions and maintain them consistently over time.

From recovery to growth