Center for Emerging Markets
Building bridges, encouraging dialogue
Founded in 2010 as the Emerging Markets Institute, the Cañizares Center for Emerging Markets at the SC Johnson College of Business provides thought leadership on the role of emerging markets in the global economy. The center brings together leading academics and practitioners to advance research and prepare the next generation of global business leaders.
Center for Emerging Markets milestones
Center for Emerging Markets renamed
We are proud to announce that the Emerging Markets Institute (EMI) has been renamed the Cañizares Center for Emerging Markets in honor of Gail and Rob Cañizares, BS ’71, MBA ’74, and the Cañizares family.
The Digital Currency Revolution: Central Bank Digital Currencies, Crypto, and the Future of Global Finance
This new book by Mark Mobius, Lourdes Casanova, Sharwari Pandit, and John Ninia explores how emerging markets are leading the global shift toward digital payments, cryptocurrencies, and Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs).
Emerging Markets Distinguished Fellows Program
Lord Jim O’Neill and Dr. Mark Mobius are the Distinguished Fellows for 2026.
Honoring the memory of Dr. Mark Mobius
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the field of emerging markets, his pioneering leadership in global investment, and his enduring support of the Cañizares Center for Emerging Markets.
Mark was not only a legendary figure in emerging markets investing, but also someone whose curiosity, optimism, and generosity left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege to know him. His work transformed how global investors approached emerging economies and opened new frontiers for opportunity.
In 2018, John Ninia, then a research fellow at the Emerging Markets Institute and a Hunter R. Rawlings III Cornell Presidential Research Scholars Program scholar, suggested that we reach out to Mark. What began as a simple suggestion evolved into a meaningful and enduring relationship.
At the center, we were fortunate to benefit from his steadfast support—especially his enthusiastic backing of the Cornell EMC² Mark Mobius Pitch Competition that proudly bears his name. He engaged deeply with our students, our Advisory Board, and our broader community, always encouraging the next generation. He was forward-looking, energetic, and deeply engaged with the world and positive about emerging markets.
It has been a true honor to work with him over the years. He will be deeply missed.
On behalf of the Cañizares Center for Emerging Markets team and the Cornell University community, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
Year in review
The Cañizares Center for Emerging Markets had much to celebrate at the end of 2025.
117
2025 Fellows
500+
2025 annual conference attendees
1,300+
2025 case competition participants
19,000
Report visits
30,000
Social media followers
51,000
Blog visits
Cornell Business News
Disclaimer: All the views expressed in the articles published on the Cañizares Center for Emerging Markets webpage are those of the author(s) and should not be taken as reflecting the views of the Cañizares Center for Emerging Markets.
Emerging Markets Institute renamed in honor of Gail and Rob Cañizares ’71, MBA ’74
The Cañizares Center for Emerging Markets educates MBAs, engages leaders, funds research, and recognizes alumni excellence.
For Emerging Markets, ESG Will Not Work Without Economic Growth
The combination of ESG and economic growth can help ensure sustainable and inclusive long-term development in emerging markets.
India’s Unified Payments Interface Has Revolutionized Its Digital Payments Market
The Unified Payments Interface has transformed digital payments in India, setting a global standard in financial inclusion across sectors.
Education
eCornell Emerging Markets Certificate Program
Emerging markets are key players in the global economy but often lack funding to become developed markets. This program explores investment opportunities and challenges in these markets. You’ll learn strategies for competitive advantage and a framework to evaluate risks in six dimensions, gaining insights into investing in emerging markets.
Recent courses featuring emerging markets
- NBA 6370 – Current Global Issues for Business: China, India, Latin America, Europe and beyond
- NBAE 6440 – Disruptive Innovative Companies from China and Other Emerging Markets
- NBAY 5550 – Entrepreneurship and Alternative Finance in Emerging Economies
- NBA 5920 – Experience in International Management
- NBA 5260 – Leaders in Emerging Markets