Tech, Empires, and a Divided Future: Navigating the New Global Landscape”
I recently had the good fortune to have my friend Roberto on my podcast and used a tool to generate a transcript for you to read it.
The article that we are referencing that that inspired this talk can be found here.
*Axel:** “Good day, everyone, and welcome to this discussion inspired by some recent exciting developments in technology. After seeing innovations like Tesla’s AI Day, China’s bold strides in space exploration, and the rise of robotics and supercomputing, I was struck by how these changes might reshape the future of real estate. So, to dig deeper into this, I’m thrilled to have Roberto with us to share his insights. Roberto, let’s start with a big-picture view: How do you think these advancements will change how we live in the future?”
**Roberto:** “Thank you, Axel! It’s great to be here. Well, all these breakthroughs — from autonomous driving to AI and even space exploration — are painting a picture of a world that’s more interconnected, automated, and efficient. We’re moving towards smart cities, homes that adapt to our needs, and workplaces that can exist anywhere. But beyond the tech, there’s a shift in global power dynamics.
Countries like China are pushing forward, not just catching up but leading, particularly in areas like robotics and space. It’s like the global map is being redrawn — not just geographically, but in terms of who sets the pace for future innovation. Dr. Warwick Powell has pointed out how China’s moves, especially through initiatives like the Belt and Road, are creating new economic ecosystems that bypass traditional Western structures, redefining trade routes and digital connectivity.”
**Axel:** “Right, and that’s what got me thinking. Historically, the G20 led in innovation, growth, and quality of life improvements. But now, it feels like they’re clinging to old methods of control, like economic pressure or even military influence. Are they falling behind because they’re not adapting as quickly? Just recently, Peter St. Onge raised similar concerns, noting how Western economies are weighed down by outdated structures that inhibit their ability to innovate compared to more agile markets in the Global South.”
**Roberto:** “That’s a sharp observation, Axel. It’s as if the G20 is trying to maintain its grand old mansion but without modernizing it, while across the street, the Global South is building sleek, innovative homes at half the cost. China, for instance, is launching missions to the moon, building its own space station, and planning Mars projects. They’re leveraging their manufacturing capabilities to lead in tech while keeping costs efficient. Dr. Markus Krall’s efforts to challenge the traditional dominance of Western financial structures with a European rating agency also echo this struggle to modernize.”
**Axel:** “It’s fascinating to see this shift. But it’s not just about technology, is it? Politically, the divide is widening too. Every time a peace initiative from leaders like Victor Orban or President Xi comes up, it gets dismissed by the G20. Is there still a Cold War mindset holding them back? The continued reliance on sanctions and military posturing makes it seem that way.”
**Roberto:** “Absolutely, Axel. The ‘friend or foe’ mentality persists, and it seems like every initiative is met with skepticism. Take China’s Belt and Road Initiative — some see it as a strategic move to create economic alliances that sidestep Western control. Dr. Warwick Powell mentioned how this approach builds networks of cooperation outside traditional Western spheres, reshaping global trade in a way that the G20 perceives as a threat.
The problem is, the G20’s resistance to these changes might be costing them. They’re missing the chance to innovate through collaboration and instead focus on maintaining dominance. And that’s a pattern we’ve seen before.”
**Axel:** “You’re saying it’s a historical pattern? Could it be similar to what we’ve seen with empires of the past? I mean, Rome and the British Empire — all reached a point where they couldn’t keep up. Harold Perkin’s work on the rise and fall of empires shows how economies and societies that fail to adapt eventually face decline.”
**Roberto:** “Exactly. Empires have always gone through cycles of expansion, dominance, and decline. The G20 today can be seen as a modern-day empire trying to maintain control in a fast-moving world. But unlike in the past, we now have the risk of nuclear conflict, which raises the stakes immensely. The recent Russia-Ukraine situation showed how nuclear threats have become part of geopolitical tactics, making the potential fallout of a major power collapse even more catastrophic.”
**Axel:** “That’s a sobering thought. But let’s switch gears a little because I want to bring up something from my article that really got me thinking: robotics, specifically Tesla’s Optimus project. Elon Musk claims it could bring about a new era of prosperity, with humanoid robots in every household. Imagine the impact on how we live, work, and even design our homes and cities. What’s your take on that?”
**Roberto:** “Ah, that’s an excellent tangent, Axel! Optimus, Tesla’s humanoid robot, is a fascinating development. Musk’s vision is that these robots will handle repetitive tasks, essentially acting as personal assistants, which could redefine labor. If it pans out, it’s not just a leap for households; it could reshape entire industries. Imagine robots taking on tasks that are currently labor-intensive, like construction, logistics, or even elder care.
But what’s interesting is that China and other Asian countries are also aggressively developing their own robotics programs. They often do this with fewer regulatory restrictions, meaning they can innovate more rapidly. This is already transforming sectors like manufacturing, where robots can now work alongside humans more efficiently, and it’s starting to spill over into daily life.”
**Axel:** “Yes, and if we think about how this ties into real estate, having robots that can assist with daily chores or even construction could change how we design our spaces. Homes might be more modular, adaptable, and even smaller because you don’t need as much space for manual tasks. Plus, as you said, countries with fewer regulatory barriers might see faster adoption. China’s rapid rollout of delivery robots and factory automation is a prime example of this.”
**Roberto:** “Exactly, Axel. And imagine the ripple effects on urban planning. If robots handle tasks like cleaning, cooking, or even grocery shopping, we might see a rise in micro-apartments that prioritize efficiency and smart design. Urban centers could be more densely populated but with better-managed infrastructure.
On the industrial side, think about construction robots — no more delays due to labor shortages. Companies can build faster and more precisely, potentially lowering costs and making innovative architectural projects, like ‘The Line’ in Saudi Arabia, more feasible. It’s an era where robotics could change not just how we work, but how we live.”
**Axel:** “It’s a transformative vision. But it also raises questions about the future of work. With robots taking over manual tasks, what does the workforce look like? Does this mean more people shift to remote, creative, or managerial roles, or do we need to rethink our entire economic system?”
**Roberto:** “A critical point, Axel. Musk often talks about a future where robots contribute so much to productivity that we could see a universal basic income (UBI) become feasible. It’s a controversial idea, but if humanoid robots become a common part of life, there will be shifts in the job market. Some sectors might shrink, while others — like tech, maintenance, and creative industries — could boom.
And as you mentioned, the regulatory approach matters. Countries like Japan, South Korea, and China, which are more open to robotics, might lead in developing frameworks that other nations will have to adopt or risk falling behind.”
**Axel:** “All fascinating stuff, Roberto. But let’s bring it back to our original point. With all these changes and shifts, how do you see these tech advancements — robotics, AI, space exploration — impacting the future of real estate and how we live?”
**Roberto:** “I think we’re already seeing the future take shape, Axel. Projects like ‘The Line’ in Saudi Arabia are a perfect example — it’s a 170-kilometer-long city designed to prioritize sustainability, efficiency, and innovative living. Meanwhile, architectural marvels in Dubai, such as the rotating Dynamic Tower, show how urban planning is evolving to embrace technology, luxury, and environmental consciousness. These aren’t just conceptual — they’re real projects happening now, reflecting a future where real estate focuses less on traditional layouts and more on connectivity, adaptability, and smart infrastructure.”
**Axel:** “Exactly! And even as the Global South drives cost-effective innovation, we can see these new models not just in emerging economies but also in urban development across the West. It’s like we’re moving toward a future where traditional zoning gives way to more modular, AI-integrated living spaces. Dr. Markus Krall’s commentary on Europe’s need to innovate its financial systems to keep up reflects a broader necessity for all aspects of life, including how we design our cities.”
**Roberto:** “Well said, Axel! Imagine homes that adjust their environment based on your daily routine or smart cities where infrastructure adapts in real-time based on residents’ needs. It’s less about location and more about connectivity and smart integration. And as the Global South continues to innovate in cost-effective tech, these new models will likely emerge in hubs across Asia, Africa, and beyond. In many ways, projects like Tesla’s AI, China’s space ventures, and Dubai’s architectural developments are laying the groundwork for how we’ll live in the future.
Robotics will play a major role in this, too. With advancements like Tesla’s Optimus, we’re looking at a future where manual tasks become a thing of the past, opening up possibilities for how we design living and working spaces. It’s a
thing of the past, opening up possibilities for how we design living and working spaces. It’s a new era where robots don’t just automate but redefine the economy, our homes, and our daily routines. Countries that embrace this will lead, while others might struggle to catch up.”
**Axel:** “Well, that’s a fascinating conclusion, Roberto, and a lot to think about! It’s clear that the world is on the brink of significant transformation, and while the future of real estate might start with ambitious projects in Saudi Arabia or Dubai, it could very well redefine urban living everywhere. If there’s one takeaway, it’s that adaptability and forward-thinking will be key.
Thank you for sharing these insights, Roberto. It seems clear that while technology is reshaping our world, the future depends on how well global powers can adapt to these changes and work together. Let’s hope we see more collaboration and less division. Thanks to everyone for joining this discussion, and until next time — live long and prosper.”
References:
1. **Carnegie Endowment for International Peace** — Discusses the historical and ongoing efforts by the Global South to build economic independence and reduce reliance on the West.
2. **Wilson Center** — Explores the alignment of Global South nations and the challenges they face, and how major powers are engaging or countering this alignment.
3. **Council of Foreign Relations** — Highlights G20 dynamics and their struggle to adapt to new global players.
4. **Phenomenal World** — Examines the increasing influence of the Global South, particularly through China’s efforts, and the geopolitical implications of this shift.
5. **Voxeurop & YouTube Interview** — Coverage of Dr. Markus Krall’s efforts to establish a European alternative to existing financial structures.
6. **Substack & Heritage Foundation** — Commentary by Peter St. Onge on the economic missteps of the West, and why the Global South’s agility is an advantage.
7. **Marc Friedrich’s Writings** — Insights on the inefficiencies and debts weighing down the Western financial system.
8. **History Today & Smithsonian** — Analysis of historical patterns of empire decline and parallels to modern geopolitics, including nuclear threats.
9. **International Man** — Reflections on the cyclical nature of empires, drawing parallels between past and present.
10. **Forbes & MIT Technology Review** — Insights into how robotics, including Tesla’s Optimus, could reshape industries and domestic life.
11. **World Economic Forum** — Reports on global robotics developments, particularly the rapid advancements in China and Asia.
12. **Financial Times** — Analysis on urban planning and the future of real estate, including projects like ‘The Line’ in Saudi Arabia and smart city developments in Dubai.
