On 26 March, we had the pleasure of welcoming John Fullerton, former JP Morgan executive and founder of the Capital Institute, for a day of discussions on regenerative economics and the future of finance in Geneva. The day began with an Executive Breakfast Dialogue at Pictet, followed by an exclusive book reading and discussion co-hosted by Building Bridges and Sustainable Finance Geneva (SFG). 

The dialogue brought together finance professionals and sustainability experts to explore how capital can be aligned with social purpose and long-term systemic resilience. Drawing on his experience, John emphasised the need to view the economy as a living sytem, highlighting the importance of resilient cash flows, small and mid-sized businesses, and more decentralised economic structures. A central theme of the session was the need to rethink the foundations of modern finance, embracing compexity over reductionist thinking, fostering collaboration across sectors, and shifting the focus from control and measurement of impact to active participation in a living economic system. 

John left participants with a strong message, “The most important thing is to slow down, pause, breathe, breathe again, and really grasp the enormity of what we’re talking about“. His message encouraged attendees to think differently and beyond short-term gains and consider how financial decisions can shape the future of our economy. 

In the evening, Fullerton joined SFG members for an intimate book reading and discussion, moderated by Kali Taylor, Managing Director of SFG. He introduced key ideas from his new book, Regenerative Economics: Revolutionary Thinking for a World in Crisis, highlighting that today’s financial architecture is no longer fit for purpose and that the current polycrisis calls for a bold reimagining of economics and finance. The session ended with a Q&A, followed by a book signing and apéro. Reflecting on the discussion, Kali Taylor noted that many already feel the current financial system is no longer working, but that John’s work helps articulate this shared concern. She emphasised that his work and ideas are fostering a growing community, with his book and courses helping to spread new thinking and drive a collective mindset shift. 

About John Fullerton

John Fullerton is an unconventional economist, writer, educator, and impact investor. He is considered the architect of Regenerative Economics and its companion, Regenerative Finance.

John is the founder of the Capital Institute, dedicated to the bold reimagination of economics and finance. Preciously he was a managing director of JP Morgan until walking away from Wall Street in 2001. John is also the co-founder of Grasslands, LLC, a board member of the Savory Institute, and a member of the Club of Rome. He and James Lovelock were featured in the 2021 award-winning documentary Going Circular.

About Capital Institute 

Our mission is to develop the theoretical foundation and policy implications of Regenerative Economics and Regenerative Finance, illuminate and facilitate their emergence in the real world, and educate leaders of all kinds about the promise of Regenerative Economics as a serious response to the polycrisis, the meta-crisis that defines our age.

Learn more about Capital Institute here.