Dan Wang

Why can China build in years what America debates for decades? Dan Wang spent six years on the ground finding out, and now gives leaders the strategic foresight to compete in markets shaped by both systems.

Geopolitics & Global Affairs Geopolitics Political Risk Trade Policy National Security Global Economy

Ann Arbor, United States

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The Great Decoupling and Sino-US Race

Bio

About Dan Wang

Why is China so good at building while America appears woefully slow? Dan Wang answers that question from firsthand experience. In Breakneck, he contrasts China’s “engineering state” with America’s “lawyerly society” and shows how these opposite approaches have led the two countries down different paths. He has delivered corporate keynotes to UBS, Jane Street, Stripe, Apple and Intel, and has presented to senior American and European government officials.

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Dan's Keynote Topics

The contrasting economic philosophies of China and the United States may be at the root of the countries’ differing approaches to innovation. Dan Wang, a leading China technology analyst and a research fellow at the Hoover History Lab at Stanford University, peels back layers of economic strategy to reveal a compelling analysis of China’s “engineering state” versus America’s “lawyerly society.” Drawing from first-hand experience as well as his New York Times bestselling book “Breakneck: China’s Quest to Engineer the Future,” Wang explains how China’s focus on innovation positions it as a formidable force in technology and infrastructure. Meanwhile, the US, with its slower, legal approach, faces challenges in maintaining its competitive edge in manufacturing and large-scale projects. Wang’s insights provide a unique perspective on an urgent question of the moment: why is China so good at building while America appears woefully slow? He brings leaders actionable strategies for maneuvering within both economies, understanding the implications for global trade and technological competition, and how to leverage these insights for strategic advantage.

As the global climate changes, becoming a leader in the clean technology space is critical for organizations and governments around the world. Dan Wang, a research fellow at the Hoover History Lab at Stanford University, brings an exclusive and in-depth exploration of China’s efforts to dominate the clean tech and EV sectors. With a focus on China’s “Made in China 2025” strategy and its significant investments in solar power and electric vehicle batteries, Wang explains how China aims to make the world reliant on its innovations. His analysis reveals the broader implications for global markets and the competitive landscape, highlighting the necessity for organizations to adapt and innovate in response to China’s maneuvers. An exceptionally accessible tech expert, Wang offers decision-makers strategic insights into navigating the clean tech and EV markets while leveraging China’s ambitions. Through Wang’s expertise, leaders gain the knowledge to compete and thrive in this quickly changing industry.

For leaders, staying ahead means understanding the direction and strategies of the world’s tech juggernauts. Dan Wang, a research fellow at the Hoover History Lab at Stanford University and renowned expert on China and the global technology landscape, delves into the heart of the trade wars, China’s ambitious tech strategy, and the widespread tech crackdown. Drawing from his firsthand experience and extensive research — focused on semiconductors, clean tech, as well as Beijing’s other priorities — Wang sheds light on China’s tactical maneuvers within the tech industry, from stringent regulations on its tech giants to strategic moves in the US-China trade conflict. He explores the broader implications of these policies on global trade, technology innovation and geopolitical dynamics to deliver insights into the complexities of international tech relations, how to best prepare for the ripple effects of China’s tech policies and how to seize the coming opportunities amid challenges they present. With a unique blend of expertise and clarity, Wang equips leaders with the knowledge to strategize effectively when international policies are marked by tension and transformation.

Understanding the enigmatic Xi Jinping, China’s current leader, is critical for global leaders seeking to navigate the increasingly complex landscape of international politics and economics. Dan Wang, a top-cited expert on China and research fellow at the Hoover History Lab at Stanford University, brings organizations an exclusive look into the mindset of Xi Jinping and his “Grand Wagers” for the global future. With a unique vantage point formed through years of on-the-ground experience and deep analytical research, Wang demystifies the personality, policies and priorities shaping China today. From Xi’s centralization of power to his ambitious “Made in China 2025” strategy, Wang’s insights help leaders see the nuances of Xi’s approach to global dominance and technological innovation. Organizations receive a comprehensive understanding of Xi’s impact on global markets, the US-China relationship and strategies for engaging with China under Xi’s leadership. Deeply knowledgeable, Wang delivers an indispensable guide for anyone looking to comprehend the motivations behind China’s quest to reshape the world order and how it affects global business and geopolitical dynamics.

Research & Writing