Dambisa Moyo to Highlight Adam Smith's Relevance at 250th Anniversary of Wealth of Nations

Dambisa Moyo to Deliver Keynote Address at Adam Smith's 250th Anniversary

On March 9, 2026, a significant event will take place to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the publication of Adam Smith's landmark work, The Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations. Esteemed economist Dambisa Moyo, known for her influential insights into global economic issues, has been chosen as the keynote speaker for this historic occasion. The event will be held at Panmure House in Edinburgh, which is notably recognized as Adam Smith's last residence.

Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations is often hailed as the cornerstone of modern economic thought, effectively laying the foundations for capitalism. Dr. Moyo's address will delve into the enduring relevance of Smith's ideas in the context of the contemporary global economy, addressing major challenges such as artificial intelligence, climate change, the energy transition, deglobalization, and the expanding role of government.

In a world where economic conditions are evolving rapidly, reflecting on historical principles is vital. Moyo, a notable figure in economic discourse, has been recognized by Time Magazine as one of the 100 most influential people globally. Furthermore, her esteemed role as a member of the United Kingdom's House of Lords, coupled with positions on various prestigious boards, underscores her influence and profound understanding of economic dynamics.

Moyo stated, “As we celebrate this anniversary, we must critically reassess the importance of economics and the ideas that have steered global markets for the past 250 years.” She emphasized the need to renew these concepts in light of the accelerating challenges confronting the global economy. This assertion comes at a pivotal time for the United States as well, marking its own 250th anniversary, rooted in the market capitalism principles advocated by Smith.

In recognizing Moyo's contributions to the field, Professor Adam Dixon, who holds the title Adam Smith Chair, remarked on the importance of this commemoration at Panmure House. He noted that the venue is being transformed from a static museum into a vibrant think tank aimed at fostering global economic renewal. He believes that revisiting Smith's principles is crucial as the world faces newfound challenges including technological disruption and climate imperatives.

Dr. Moyo is not only a leading economist but also a critically acclaimed author. With several bestsellers, her works such as Edge of Chaos have significantly shaped international economic conversations. Her academic accolades include a PhD in economics from Oxford University, along with master's degrees from both Harvard and American University.

Her upcoming keynote will serve as an essential discourse on how Smith’s foundational principles can be leveraged to navigate the complexities of modern economies. This historic gathering at Panmure House is set to ignite meaningful discussions about the past, present, and future of economic thought, aligning with the pressing need for fresh perspectives on age-old ideas.

For further details about this enlightening event, interested parties can access a comprehensive press kit available online, providing insights into Dr. Moyo's perspectives, accolades, and considerable contributions to economics.

In a time of global economic flux, Dambisa Moyo is poised to lead a conversation that not only celebrates Adam Smith's legacy but also paves the way for innovative solutions to contemporary challenges. The anniversary serves as a reminder of the fragility and resilience of economic systems, providing a platform where renewal and reflection can coalesce into actionable strategies for the future.