2025: Playing the Cards of Change and Opportunity

2024 was a pivotal year—a year of "keeping the lights on" while setting the stage for what lies ahead. Moving first to Southern Spain was a much-needed shift, bringing warm weather, amazing cuisine, and friendly people, all of which provided a nurturing environment for reflection and planning. However, another major transition awaited: I moved from Spain to Florence, Italy, for the second time. This city, steeped in art, history, and cultural richness, has already proven to be an inspiring setting for the business I have in mind.

Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Preparation

This year was dedicated to maintaining stability while diving into new skills. Working in corporate roles within the EU, I focused on upskilling in martech and immersing myself in the latest developments in AI. The year involved multiple scenario analyses—a habit ingrained from my experience in South America, where every Q3 meant preparing for various economic outlooks while working for American CPG companies.

My multi-country experience, ranging across consulting, CPG, energy, entertainment, and even government sectors, has become a powerful "card" that I’ve revealed. I’m also looking forward to reigniting my consulting practice, even while maintaining a corporate position, which I enjoy.

Forecasting 2025: An Investment and Strategy

When I consider investments, Italy, Northern Spain, and secondary U.S. cities hold promise in real estate. Cryptocurrency, especially Bitcoin, seems poised to rise further, alongside other emerging coins that may also play a role. For those with a conservative approach, oil and other commodities remain viable. Meanwhile, politics and economic shifts will demand attention—topics I could explore in greater depth.

Preparing for What Comes Next

2025 brings its own uncertainties, but my plan is to stay in the EU for now, at least until 2026, before potentially moving to my next destination - possibly Argentina ? With global challenges on the horizon—from potential conflicts to fluctuating commodity prices—I am bracing myself for the possibilities.

Recommendations for Your 2025 Playbook

1. Plan for Multiple Scenarios: Map out possible futures (A, B, and C) for personal and professional growth, just as companies do for strategic planning.
2. Diversify Investments: Look into European real estate, cryptocurrency, and commodities that align with your risk tolerance.
3. Keep Learning: Stay updated on developments in AI, martech, and other emerging technologies that could impact your field.
4. Balance Personal Goals with Career Ambitions: Whether considering consulting or corporate roles, find a balance that fulfills both personal aspirations and professional satisfaction.
5. Embrace Your Environment: Let the city where you're in fuel your creativity and vision for the future, try learning something new, meet / network with people from unrelated industries to your field.
6. Be Ready for Change: Flexibility is key in today’s unpredictable climate. Be prepared to pivot as 2025 unfolds.

So, have you played your cards yet? What are you hoping to get out of 2025?

Thanks for commenting!

Pina Russo