Proving that persistency pays, CFO Bhavna Duggal FCCA’s single-minded determination has taken her career from Asia to Canada via the UK. It gave her the resolve to stay in Kuwait in 2003 while missiles were coming in from Iraq. And it also means she never takes no for an answer, such as when she faxed her CV to Deloitte on a daily basis until a partner agreed to meet with her.
A fascinating, if perhaps frightening, notion explored in this month’s edition is the rise – or otherwise – of ‘network states’. Formed around shared interests, goals and ideas that operate outside the reach of traditional governmental control, could these digital states ultimately seek to challenge national governments?
Rumours about the death of inflation are beginning to appear a little exaggerated. As we enter 2025, there would appear to be no holiday in the fight against rising prices, both in America and Europe, with tariff hikes, tax cuts and wage rises potentially combining to drive inflation.
Our seasonal coverage includes a look at how different cultures celebrate new year, as shared by members around the world. In our careers section this month there’s also a feature on avoiding the post-holiday blues, with advice on how to minimise the negative effects and reset yourself for the work routine. And if you’re looking for a new direction in 2025, read our article about why ACCA members make good non-executive directors.
Finally, if you’re after some lighter reading, take a look at our special edition. From money museums to Marvel superheroes, billionaires to Vegas residencies, find out something new about finance.
