Four potential 'black swans' for 2025

'Four unlikely but nonetheless plausible scenarios'

clock • 4 min read

Nathan Sweeney explores what new ‘black swans' could the world see in 2025...

In 2024 a sniper came within a hair's breadth of assassinating Donald Trump. As Israel targeted Hezbollah members, dozens of people were killed by explosives planted in pagers and walkie-talkies. And a spacecraft returned to Earth to be caught by giant ‘chopsticks'. What new ‘black swans' could the world see in 2025? Here are four unlikely but nonetheless plausible scenarios that would have significant implications for investors.  1. Elon Musk becomes US president Donald Trump is 78 years old. He lives on a diet that includes large quantities of McDonald's, KFC and Diet Coke and ha...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Economics / Markets

Budget 25: Early OBR reports downgrades UK growth outlook as fiscal headroom doubles

Budget 25: Early OBR reports downgrades UK growth outlook as fiscal headroom doubles

OBR report released in 'unprecedented leak'

Patrick Brusnahan
clock 26 November 2025 • 1 min read
Budget 25: Council tax surcharge for £2m properties revealed

Budget 25: Council tax surcharge for £2m properties revealed

High Value Council Tax Surcharge in place from April 2028

Jen Frost
clock 26 November 2025 • 2 min read
Partner Insight: Every year counts - Practical support from Octopus to cut through the pre-Budget noise

Partner Insight: Every year counts - Practical support from Octopus to cut through the pre-Budget noise

Helping clients act now for effective estate planning

Toyin Oyeneyin, Tax Product Specialist @ Octopus Investments
clock 25 November 2025 • 6 min read