Whilst news revolving round historically low interest rate levels, retaliatory tariffs and currency devaluations have dominated recent events in respect of global stock markets, monetary policies and the resort to unconventional monetary policy tools, the recent COVID -19 outbreak has not only impacted in global seismic proportions, but also from social and economic perspectives. This volume highlights the rationales behind the emergence of new global players - from a global and trade relations perspective - thereby accentuating those factors that have necessitated a shift in power from the previous financial landscapes to a more digital based modern economy. Recent events have demonstrated the importance of engaging technologies and techniques to address matters of global significance - particularly those which impact economically, socially and environmentally, in a holistic and futuristic manner - taking into consideration interests of future generations. Humanity and global relationships are shaped and defined, not just through the manner in which global issues are addressed, but the techniques and responsibilities towards others, at a global level, in deploying such techniques.