In Guadalajara, experts warn that the international landscape has changed irreversibly, requiring Mexico to redefine its foreign and economic strategy.

By JOSÉ ÁNGEL DE LA PAZ | EGADE BUSINESS SCHOOL

Opening the year celebration of its 30th anniversary, EGADE Business School of Tecnológico de Monterrey, in collaboration with the School of Government and Public Transformation (EGyTP), hosted the event "Economic and Political Outlook for Mexico 2025" in Guadalajara, where experts analyzed the country's challenges and opportunities in the new global context.

At the forum’s opening, Raúl Montalvo, director of EGADE Business School Guadalajara, emphasized the importance of fostering strategic dialogue at a crucial moment for the country and the world.

“This year marks the beginning of many changes—new administrations, new circumstances, new geopolitical dynamics—all of which invite us to reflect on the role we play, individually and collectively,” he stated.

Montalvo pointed out that Mexico’s economy faces significant challenges but also opportunities. He highlighted Plan México, which aims to position the country among the world’s top ten economies by 2030. This requires sustained growth of 6% per year, well above the 0.8% average of recent years. He stressed the need for a strategic approach to driving economic development in the face of global uncertainty.

ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION AND STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR JALISCO

The event, held on January 29 at the Congress Center of Tec’s Guadalajara Campus, featured Cindy Blanco, the Secretary of Economic Development of Jalisco. She presented her perspective on the state's economic agenda in the context of global transformations.

In her speech, Blanco highlighted the shift in the world order, the impact of the U.S.-China rivalry, and strategic opportunities for Jalisco.

She noted that global competition demands a more ambitious approach to attracting investment by creating jobs and fostering intellectual property and technology transfer.

“If we want Jalisco to be an ‘investment oasis,’ we must ensure a business-friendly environment,” she stated.

Regarding Jalisco’s economic plan, she identified five key sectors with high potential for the state:

• Software and Information Technology, where Jalisco has been an innovation hub since the 1990s.
• Semiconductors and electronics, an industry in which the state already accounts for 70% of national activity, offer an opportunity to reconfigure global supply chains.
• Agroindustry, focusing on decentralizing economic development across the state’s 12 regions.
• Health and Medical Tourism, leveraging the growing demand for accessible healthcare from the United States.
• Automotive is not in traditional manufacturing but in the development of future mobility technology, with software and semiconductors as key differentiators.

Blanco also stressed that regulatory improvements are essential for Jalisco to solidify itself as an investment destination.

“We can offer land and train the workforce, but without clear rules and a business-friendly environment, investment won’t come,” she warned.

MEXICO AMID GEOPOLITICAL UNCERTAINTY

The event also featured a panel discussion on Mexico’s political and economic outlook with experts from Tecnológico de Monterrey.

Beata Wojna, former Polish ambassador to Mexico and professor of International Relations at the Tec, highlighted that the Claudia Sheinbaum administration seeks to maintain stability in its relationship with the United States. It avoids direct confrontations and cooperates on key issues such as migration and security.

“We shouldn’t take Trump’s statements at face value. One day, he says the relationship with Mexico is fine, and the next, he threatens sanctions,” she cautioned.

Alejandro Díaz, research professor at the EGyTP, noted that Mexicans perceive Trump as more aggressive than in his first term. While most believe the government has acted with prudence, they also demand a stronger response.

“Mexico must prepare for high-volatility scenarios. We can’t wait to react once the damage is done,” he emphasized.

Roberto Durán, research professor at the EGyTP, explained that the geopolitical landscape poses challenges for Mexico’s economy, mainly due to U.S. pressure to reduce China’s presence in the region.

“If uncertainty with the United States isn’t resolved, the Plan México will struggle to move forward,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a clear strategy.

Finally, Azucena Rojas, Dean of the Western and Northern Region of the Tec School of Social Sciences and Government, who moderated the discussion, concluded that Mexico must adapt to a reality in which geopolitics plays an increasingly decisive role and move away from its traditional policy of ambiguity.

“The world of geopolitics is one where choices must be made, and that doesn’t align with Mexico’s traditional political culture,” she remarked.

Experts agreed that 2025 will be a complex year for Mexico, with key decisions shaping its position in the new global order.

The "Economic and Political Outlook for Mexico 2025" event was previously held in Monterrey on January 23 and in Mexico City on January 27. Its final session is scheduled for January 31 in Querétaro.

"Reducing interest rates is premature as long as inflation remains uncontrolled," warned Everardo Elizondo.

By JOSÉ ÁNGEL DE LA PAZ | EGADE BUSINESS SCHOOL

As part of "Mexico's Economic and Political Outlook 2025," Everardo Elizondo, former deputy governor of Banco de México and distinguished professor of Economics at EGADE Business School of Tecnológico de Monterrey, analyzed the Mexican economy's structural and cyclical challenges. He noted that Banxico's recent interest rate cuts are premature and could lead to confusion.

In his keynote lecture, “The ‘Yesterday’ and ‘Tomorrow’ of the Mexican Economy: Conjectures and Perplexities”, delivered on January 27 in Mexico City, Elizondo highlighted that while general inflation has decreased significantly—from levels above 9% in 2022 to less than 4% currently—inflation control remains incomplete.

"The 3% target has not been consistently achieved, and until it is sustained, inflation control cannot be guaranteed," he stated.

He also criticized the misconception of a "tolerance range" for inflation set by Banco de México, calling it a "space of ignorance" necessary for managing external shocks.

Regarding economic growth, Elizondo emphasized that Mexico has faced a structural weakness for over 25 years, with an average growth rate of 2%, which has declined further in recent years.

For 2025, he anticipates that economic activity will continue to weaken, with growth that “at best will not reach zero.” He attributes this stagnation to the lack of investment in human capital, technology, and infrastructure and to regulatory uncertainty negatively impacting the investment climate.

"There is insufficient investment in human capital and technology, which keeps us stagnant," he noted.

The international context was also analyzed. Elizondo warned about the threat posed by protectionist policies in the United States, particularly the potential use of tariffs as a political tool on issues like migration and drug trafficking.

While he expressed concern about these measures, he also underscored that the growth of Mexican exports remains tied to the strength of the U.S. economy.

Finally, Elizondo reaffirmed his hawkish stance on monetary policy, stressing that Banco de México must focus exclusively on its mandate to control inflation.

"Banco de México is not designed to be a green bank or to promote employment; its sole objective is to preserve price stability, which has not yet been fully achieved," he concluded.

"Mexico's Economic and Political Outlook 2025" is an event organized by EGADE Business School to commemorate its 30th anniversary in collaboration with the School of Government and Public Transformation of Tecnológico de Monterrey.

In addition to Elizondo, the program also featured a lecture by Carlos Elizondo Mayer-Serra, professor and researcher at the School of Government and Public Transformation.

The event began with a welcome by Pablo Necoechea, Regional Director of EGADE Business School in Mexico City and Querétaro, and concluded with a panel discussion featuring Mariana Campos, general director of México Evalúa; Carlos Aurelio Hernández, president of the National Energy Commission at COPARMEX, and Roberto Durán, professor and researcher at the School of Government and Public Transformation.

Former Deputy Governor Everardo Elizondo believes that, although inflation has decreased, it remains far from the 3% target, and Banco de México's monetary policy has not been restrictive enough.

By JOSÉ ÁNGEL DE LA PAZ | EGADE BUSINESS SCHOOL

On January 23, Monterrey hosted the first session of “Mexico's Economic and Political Outlook for 2025,” organized by EGADE Business School and the School of Government and Public Transformation (EGyTP by its acronym in Spanish) of Tecnológico de Monterrey.

This series, part of EGADE Business School’s 30th anniversary celebration, will continue with upcoming editions in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Querétaro.

In her welcome address, Eva Guerra, Associate Dean of EGADE Business School, highlighted the significance of the current context for Mexico and the United States, which is marked by the start of Claudia Sheinbaum's and Donald Trump's presidential terms.

“This context calls for us to assess scenarios, analyze trends, reflect on the challenges that may arise in this increasingly complex and competitive global environment, and identify the opportunities that emerge from strategic cooperation, innovation, and long-term vision,” Guerra said.

ECONOMIC PERSPECTIVES

The event featured Everardo Elizondo, former Deputy Governor of Banco de México and Distinguished Professor of Economics at EGADE Business School, who delivered the keynote address, "Mexico's Economy: Past and Future—Preliminary Conjectures."

Elizondo emphasized that Mexico's economy struggles with weak investment, stating that “physical investment, human capital, and technology are not receiving the attention needed to drive economic growth.”

“There isn’t enough investment in Mexico,” he stressed, pointing out that most investment comes from the private sector while public investment remains historically low.

Additionally, he highlighted that foreign trade remains a strength due to Mexico’s relationship with the United States, but he warned about the risks of potential tariffs under the Trump administration.

“The threat of Trump-era tariffs remains unclear, but they will certainly have significant repercussions,” he said.

Regarding inflation, Elizondo noted that while rates show a downward trend, they remain far from the 3% target.

“There’s a difference between inflation declining and prices actually decreasing,” he clarified.

He also criticized Banco de México’s monetary policy for not being restrictive enough to combat inflation.

Elizondo predicted that, depending on inflation trends, interest rates could drop to around 8% by the end of the year.

Elizondo reflected on the challenging outlook: “We’re facing a year of limited growth, with inflation unlikely to hit the 3% target.”

PANEL OF EXPERTS

The event also featured a panel discussion with Jorge Martínez, Professor of Economics and Finance at EGADE Business School; Ernesto Stein, former BID representative in Mexico and Distinguished Professor of Public Policy at EGyTP; Cecilia Carrillo, Director General of COPARMEX Nuevo León; and Alejandro Díaz, a researcher at EGyTP.

Martínez described the current situation as a "mosaic of storms" characterized by global populism, a strengthening dollar, and trade tensions.

“In the darkest moments, great transformations are born. Mexico has the talent and creativity to turn storms into new opportunities,” Martínez said.

Stein highlighted the impact of nearshoring as a competitive advantage for Mexico but cautioned: “There is no single Mexico in nearshoring. The north is advancing, but the south faces structural challenges that limit its participation.”

Carrillo addressed the challenges SMEs face, pointing out that “economic uncertainty affects companies unevenly, and regulations don’t always translate into tangible benefits.” She also noted the lack of skilled labour in the North and talent migration issues in the South.

Díaz discussed populism as a divisive phenomenon: “Populism is not a sustainable model; its divisive rhetoric creates gaps between elites and the population, making it difficult to build long-term consensus.”

The event concluded with remarks from Miguel Treviño de Hoyos, Director of the Monterrey site of EGyTP.

The “Mexico's Economic and Political Outlook for 2025” series will continue on January 27 in Mexico City, January 29 in Guadalajara, and January 31 in Querétaro.

The race is part of the celebration of EGADE Business School's 30th anniversary and supports the Tecnológico de Monterrey’s "Líderes del Mañana" program.

By INSTITUTIONAL COMMUNICATION | EGADE BUSINESS SCHOOL

EGADE Business School at Tecnológico de Monterrey invites the community to participate in the second edition of the "EGADE Run 4 The Future" race, which will be held on February 23, 2025, at the Valle Oriente Circuit in San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León.

This event marks the 30th anniversary of EGADE Business School and supports the "Líderes del Mañana" program of Tecnológico de Monterrey. It reaffirms the school’s commitment to social transformation and leadership in education.

“We are thrilled to present the second edition of the EGADE Run 4 The Future, supporting 'Líderes del Mañana.' This race, part of our anniversary celebration, is a unique opportunity to run together and contribute to enabling talented, socially committed young people to achieve their educational dreams at our institution. Let’s celebrate three decades of leadership by running for the future,” said María Livas, Director of Alumni Relations and Career Hub at EGADE Business School.

The race will feature three distance options designed to include everyone: 10k, 5k, and a 2k family and pet-friendly race.

The 10k and 5k races will start at 7:00 a.m., while the 2k race will begin at 8:30 a.m.

The race, expected to attract nearly 2,000 runners, aims to unite the community and create meaningful social impact.

"Líderes del Mañana" is a Tecnológico de Monterrey program that provides 100% financial aid to outstanding, transformative young leaders, enabling them to pursue a professional degree while positively impacting their communities.

For those who wish to warm up for the race, two 5K training sessions will be held beforehand:

• Sunday, February 2: Starting from the Rotonda de los Duendes, as part of the San Pedro de Pinta program.
• Saturday, February 8: In front of Parque Rufino Tamayo and EGADE Business School at the Valle Oriente Circuit.

The participation fee for the race is 600 pesos, including a commemorative kit with a race shirt, a bib with a timing chip, a medal, hydration, a recovery kit, sponsor giveaways, and medical services.

Sponsors for this year’s event include Hey Banco, Nucolato, EXATEC, Habits, Interni, and Casa Benell.

Tickets are available online at https://tec.rs/EGADERun4TheFuture2025.

The Dean of the Undergraduate Business School and EGADE Business School at Tecnológico de Monterrey will contribute his expertise and strategic vision to enhance the institute's impact.

By JOSÉ ÁNGEL DE LA PAZ | EGADE BUSINESS SCHOOL

Horacio Arredondo, Dean of the Undergraduate Business School and EGADE Business School at Tecnológico de Monterrey, has been appointed as a member of the International Advisory Board of the Institute for the Future of Education (IFE).

The IFE, established by Tecnológico de Monterrey, is a global institute dedicated to creating, disseminating, and applying knowledge in educational innovation within higher education and lifelong learning, aiming to improve the lives of millions worldwide.

The institute fosters interdisciplinary research, collaborations with innovation leaders, and developing disruptive solutions to make education more accessible, flexible, and affordable.

As a member of the International Advisory Board, Arredondo will contribute his vision and expertise to shape the strategies and initiatives of the IFE, address critical challenges related to the future of higher education and lifelong learning, expand the institute’s connections with new audiences and strategic partners, and strengthen its international presence.

The International Advisory Board comprises external experts and representatives from Tecnológico de Monterrey. The board is chaired by Michael Fung, Executive Director of the IFE, and its secretary is José Escamilla, Associate Director of the institute. Other members include academic leaders, representatives of international organizations, and prominent thought leaders.

As part of his appointment, Arredondo will actively participate in the IFE Conference 2025, which will take place at Tec's Monterrey campus.

First, he will inaugurate the Summit on Talent and the Future of Work on January 28 at 3:30 p.m. in the Library's Sala Novela (sixth floor).

On January 29, he will participate in the fireside chat “What Will the Future of Work Look Like and How Can We Prepare Students for It?” alongside Juan Ignacio Sánchez, Distinguished Visiting Professor in Organizational Behavior and Human Capital at Tecnológico de Monterrey. The discussion will begin at 12:45 p.m. in the Arena Borregos.

Arredondo will serve on the International Advisory Board of the IFE for two years, beginning in January 2025.

Through this appointment, the Dean reinforces his commitment to education and the transformation of educational systems, offering his leadership from an innovative and sustainable perspective.

Study highlights the video game's potential to foster critical and creative thinking in sustainable development education.

By JOSÉ ÁNGEL DE LA PAZ | EGADE BUSINESS SCHOOL

Two members of EGADE Business School have co-authored an innovative chapter that explores the use of Minecraft as an educational tool to develop critical and creative thinking. The chapter is featured in the book Horizons in Learning Linked to Sustainable Development: New Pathways in the Digital Era (2025), published by Octaedro Editorial.

The chapter, titled "Minecraft, a Game-Based Learning Tool: Analyzing its Impact on the Development of Critical and Creative Thinking in Addressing Challenges Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," was co-authored by Eloísa Pérez González, Director of Educational Innovation, and Jairo Orozco Triana, Professor in the Department of Entrepreneurship and Technological Innovation, both at EGADE Business School.

The chapter also includes contributions from Myriam Villarreal Rodríguez, Director of Design and Pedagogical Architecture at Tecnológico de Monterrey, and Miguel Abrajan Morales, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Más Que Learning.

“In this work, we share the academic experiences conducted at EGADE using this tool in our graduate courses,” Pérez González explained.

The chapter highlights the significant impact of using Minecraft in graduate-level academic experiences at EGADE Business School between 2022 and 2023.

These experiences incorporated methodologies such as design thinking, challenge-based learning, and game-based learning to address challenges aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The findings show Minecraft fosters collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity, while providing an immersive and playful learning environment.

Pérez González, Orozco Triana, and their co-authors emphasize the importance of exploring this invaluable resource, which combines gamification, sustainability, and educational innovation.

The book is available for free download from the Octaedro Editorial website.

Its co-editors will officially present the book on January 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., in the Auditorium on Level 2 of the Expedition FEMSA Building at Tecnológico de Monterrey. The presentation is part of the IFE Conference 2025, a flagship event organized by the Institute for the Future of Education, bringing together prominent leaders and innovators in education.

He will lead the strategy and portfolio of executive programs, driving innovation and sustainable growth in organizations worldwide.

By JOSÉ ÁNGEL DE LA PAZ | EGADE BUSINESS SCHOOL

EGADE Business School at Tecnológico de Monterrey has appointed Osmar Arandia as its Associate Dean of Executive Education.

Horacio Arredondo, dean of EGADE Business School, highlighted the strategic vision Arandia brings to the institution: “Osmar will lead our strategy and portfolio with companies and organizations at both the national and international levels, transforming them through executive education and consultancy to drive innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable growth in a constantly changing environment.”

Arandia has an outstanding academic and leadership trajectory. He is an active member of international networks such as the Humanistic Management Network, where he leads coordination efforts in Mexico, and serves on editorial boards of publications like Revue de Sciences des Gestion and Humanistic Management Review.

Additionally, he has represented Mexico and Latin America in global organizations such as the Academy of Management and the International Federation of Scholarly Academies of Management (IFSAM).

Before joining EGADE Business School, he held strategic roles, including Director of Commercialization in Lifelong Learning and Academic Director of the Department of Management and Marketing at the Universidad de Monterrey (UDEM). He also served as Vice Rector for Strategic Development at the Universidad Cristóbal Colón in Veracruz.

Arandia is a graduate of Tecnológico de Monterrey, where he earned a degree in Business Administration. He also completed a Master’s in Marketing and a Doctorate in Administrative Sciences at EGADE Business School, solidifying his longstanding relationship with the institution he now leads in executive education.