BRICS 2025–2026: Six-to-Eighteen Month Investor & Executive Action Plan

Executive Summary

The July 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro reinforced the bloc’s ambition to build a multipolar economic system less dependent on Western institutions and the U.S. dollar. Over the next 6–18 months, strategic watchers should monitor currency infrastructure rollouts, commodity market shifts, development finance activity, and governance reform efforts. This white paper outlines key developments to watch — and actionable preparation steps for investors and executives.

1. Financial Infrastructure & Currency Moves

Signals to Monitor

• Rollout or pilot programs for BRICS Pay cross-border payment systems.

• Uptick in local-currency bilateral trade settlements (e.g., yuan–ruble, rupee–dirham).

• Early adoption of commodity-anchored settlement units in trade agreements.

Strategic Preparations

• Diversify currency exposure with a basket of select BRICS currencies showing macro stability.

• Increase allocation to gold and key commodities as dollar hedges.

• Review banking partners and systems for non-SWIFT settlement readiness.

2. Trade & Commodity Strategy

Signals to Monitor

• Non-USD denominated energy trade agreements between BRICS members.

• Establishment of alternative commodity pricing benchmarks.

• New export control policies on rare earths or critical minerals.

Strategic Preparations

• Lock in long-term supply contracts for vital inputs.

• Consider commodity-linked ETFs or direct resource investments in BRICS-aligned markets.

• Hedge cost structures against potential pricing reference changes.

3. Governance & Development Finance

Signals to Monitor

• Expansion of New Development Bank local-currency lending.

• Creation of BRICS-linked infrastructure or sovereign funds.

• Outcomes of IMF/World Bank reform talks or emergence of parallel institutions.

Strategic Preparations

• Identify infrastructure and energy projects likely to receive BRICS funding.

• Position for public–private partnerships in BRICS markets.

• Align ESG frameworks with BRICS sustainability standards to access financing.

4. Geopolitical Positioning & Risk

Signals to Monitor

• Shifts in India–China relations — cooperation or divergence.

• US/EU policy responses: tariffs, sanctions, or export controls targeting BRICS members.

• New BRICS positions on technology regulation, AI, or security cooperation.

Strategic Preparations

• Build contingency supply chain plans for potential trade disruptions.

• Maintain dual-compliance strategies to operate under both Western and BRICS frameworks.

• Develop scenario models for commodity shocks and currency swings.

5. Climate & Sustainability Agenda

Signals to Monitor

• Implementation of Tropical Forests Forever Facility and similar climate-finance tools.

• Launch of BRICS renewable energy and adaptation investment funds.

• Financing offers for EV infrastructure, agri-tech, and water security.

Strategic Preparations

• Expand into green sectors prioritized by BRICS.

• Explore carbon offset partnerships within BRICS jurisdictions.

• Pursue co-financing opportunities with South–South climate funds.

Conclusion

The coming 6–18 months will be critical for BRICS in laying the groundwork for alternative financial systems and expanding its influence in commodities, development finance, and climate policy. For investors and executives, proactive positioning — through currency diversification, commodity strategy, and engagement with BRICS-aligned development initiatives — can help capture opportunities while mitigating geopolitical and market risks.