World Chess PLC (CHSS) has partnered with global quantitative asset management firm WorldQuant and the Goals House to host a series of chess events in Davos during the World Economic Forum.
The events brought together world-renowned grandmasters and business and cultural leaders.
This unique event featured legendary chess grandmasters Vladimir Kramnik, former six-time World Chess Champion and former World Number One, and Daniel Yuffa, the reigning Spanish Champion.
Joining them were Natalia Vodianova, supermodel and philanthropist, Igor Tulchinsky, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of WorldQuant; and Timon Afinsky, founder of Locals.org.
Together, they brought a day filled with strategy, innovation, and thought-provoking conversations to the heart of Davos.
As part of the day's events, a thought-provoking fireside chat was held under the 'Create What You Wish Existed' banner, a talk series co-founded by Natalia Vodianova and Timon Afinsky.
'Create What You Wish Existed' is a global initiative that brings together visionaries and unicorn founders to share their journeys and inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and new ideas for the future.
During the conversation, Timon Afinsky and Igor Tulchinsky explored how chess can influence strategic decision-making and how it impacted Igor's life and his experiences. Their dialogue inspired an audience of entrepreneurs, creatives, and thought leaders, offering insights into how strategic thinking and collaboration can drive meaningful change.
"This is more than introducing chess to Davos,” said Ilya Merenzon, chief executive of World Chess.
“It's about demonstrating how the game's core principles, foresight, precision, and adaptability mirror the leadership and innovation required to navigate today's challenges. By integrating chess into this space, we're encouraging leaders to think more strategically about shaping a better future."
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By bringing chess to Davos alongside the World Economic Forum, World Chess, WorldQuant, and Goals House created a memorable moment and sparked a broader conversation about the intersection of intellect, creativity and leadership in shaping a better tomorrow.