The Princess of Wales has delivered a powerful message to the UK's corporate elite, arguing that financial success and creating a positive social impact should go hand in hand.
A Rallying Cry for Compassion in Business
On Tuesday 18th November 2025, Kate addressed a summit of senior executives in the City of London. The event was hosted by her Royal Foundation, with the aim of driving action and investment in the crucial area of early childhood development.
In her opening speech, the future Queen described her passion for promoting the early years as her "life's work". She rooted this commitment in a fundamental belief: "the love we feel in our earliest years fundamentally shapes who we become and how we thrive as adults."
Building Ecosystems of Care
The Princess elaborated on how early environments shape individuals, drawing a direct parallel to the business world. She stated that every environment, from a family home to a corporate workforce, is an ecosystem that leaders help to create.
She challenged those present to envision a world where these environments valued "time and tenderness just as much as productivity and success." This, she suggested, would create a more nurturing and ultimately more successful society.
Profitability and Purpose Are Not Opposites
Directly addressing the daily pressures faced by the audience, Kate acknowledged the challenge of balancing ledgers with making a meaningful difference. However, she was unequivocal in her conclusion.
"As business leaders you will face the daily challenge of finding the balance between profitability and having a positive impact," she said. "But the two are not and should not be incompatible." This statement served as the core thesis of her address, urging a fusion of commercial acumen with social conscience for the benefit of future generations.
