Kwasi Kwarteng, the former chancellor whose 2022 mini-budget triggered a financial crisis, has been hired as a keynote speaker by Nomad Capitalist, a firm that advises the super-rich on reducing their tax bills. The event, billed as the world's number one gathering for global citizens, will take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in September.
Nomad Capitalist, which describes itself as the 'masters of international mobility', lists Kwarteng alongside Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak and investigative journalist Glenn Greenwald as star attractions. A promotional video for the conference promises delegates 'actionable strategies on taxes, second citizenships, asset protection and global investments'.
When approached by the Guardian, Kwarteng defended his involvement, stating: 'I'm just giving a talk there. I have nothing else to say... I'm not an MP, I'm not an office holder, I'm a private citizen and I've been asked to speak at this thing. Make of it what you will.' He declined to disclose his fee, but noted that Nigel Farage had previously declared £40,075 for a similar appearance.
The event programme indicates Kwarteng will discuss 'the impact of global political decisions on international business and investment'. His 2022 mini-budget, which included unfunded tax cuts, led to emergency bond purchases by the Bank of England and was widely blamed for exacerbating the cost-of-living crisis.
A spokesperson for Nomad Capitalist confirmed Kwarteng's participation, saying: 'Mr Kwarteng has been invited to share his insights on global economic trends and the future of international mobility... The event is designed to explore ideas around freedom, mobility, and global investment – not to promote any one political agenda.'
