Tuesday, Feb. 03, 2009
9. This May Be the Last Davos
The people of Davos vote Feb. 8 on whether to rebuild and greatly expand the convention center where the World Economic Forum is held each year. If they turn down the plan, WEF founder Klaus Schwab is likely to look elsewhere. And even if they don't, it's hard to image the event regaining its current extravagant form anytime soon. This year, the sponsors and attendees had for the most part already committed (and paid up) before the autumn financial meltdown. Barring a spectacularly quick economic recovery, expect a lot fewer to sign up for next year.