People

Jacob Shapiro

Jacob Shapiro

Formal First Name
Jacob
Location

Jacob Shapiro is Partner and Director of Geopolitical Analysis at Cognitive Investments, where he works with the firm’s research team to integrate geopolitics into CI’s investment strategies. He is also the Founder and Chief Strategist of Perch Perspectives, a geopolitical risk consulting firm that provides research and bespoke insights to global businesses. Shapiro is a renowned geopolitical analyst with more than a decade of experience in the industry. He is a well-known speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He advises companies and governments on the nature of political, social and economic power and how these forces influence and impact the world around us every day. Prior to joining CI, he served as Director of Analysis at Geopolitical Futures, which he co-founded with George Friedman. Before that, he was Director of the Operations Center at Stratfor, the geopolitical intelligence firm.

Professional Experience


Academic History

COGNITIVE INVESTMENTS

  • He oversees the firm’s strategic direction and client engagements, and works with companies in the energy, technology, agriculture, and aerospace industries.

  • In addition, he authors CI's "Global Situation Report," a weekly intelligence brief on the world's most important development.

  • He also hosts the popular podcast series "Cognitive Dissidents," which features interviews with a diverse array of foreign policy, technology, and global business experts.


EARLY CAREER & EXPERTISE

  • He is the former director of analysis at Geopolitical Futures, where he managed a team of analysts in forecasting geopolitical trends and events.

  • He was a Middle East analyst and director of operations at the global intelligence firm Stratfor.

  • During his time at GPF and Stratfor, he earned a reputation as a rigorous researcher and exceptional writer, willing to challenge traditional methods and ideas with unconventional thinking.

  • He has provided clients with the context, foresight, and analysis they need to solve for the unknown and enhance their understanding of global and regional affairs.

  • He is known for challenging his clients' perspectives to empower them to make accurate, informed decisions and gain a more holistic view of the events that impact them, their businesses, or governments.

  • He works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. 


MEDIA & APPEARANCES

  • A distinguished geopolitical analyst, he is a frequent speaker on international affairs.

  • He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world and helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities.

  • He has appeared as a guest on Real Vision.