Sayyed Farhan Naqvi iLearningEngines: How Digital Tech Is Redefining Global Power

Former iLearningEngines CFO Sayyed Farhan Naqvi has published a thought-provoking analysis on how global power dynamics are shifting from traditional resources to digital infrastructure. In his Medium article, “Techno-Nationalism & the New Global Order,” Naqvi explores how semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing now form the core assets of geopolitical influence.

Drawing on his leadership experience at iLearningEngines, a leading enterprise AI automation company, Sayyed Farhan Naqvi highlights how countries are increasingly acting as active architects of tech ecosystems. He emphasizes a growing trend: governments around the world are investing in digital sovereignty, securing supply chains, and accelerating their national AI agendas.

Sayyed Farhan Naqvi of iLearningEngines on tech reshaping power

From iLearningEngines CFO to Global Tech Policy Expert

Leveraging his background as CFO of iLearningEngines, Naqvi brings unique insight into how control over chips, data, and cloud infrastructure is becoming more critical than traditional economic or military power. He points to initiatives like the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act and China's AI programs as examples of nations localizing production and technology to mitigate geopolitical risks.

“Cloud computing and chip manufacturing are no longer business concerns—they are matters of national sovereignty,” writes Sayyed Farhan Naqvi iLearningEngines expert.

U.S.–China Rivalry: A Digital Cold War

Naqvi describes the growing U.S.–China tech standoff as a new cold war centered on AI, quantum computing, and control over global digital norms. While the U.S. supports open-market innovation, China continues to invest in a state-controlled tech ecosystem. Both countries are racing to build self-reliant tech stacks and influence emerging economies through digital infrastructure.

Sovereign AI and the Global Tech Race

In his article, Naqvi introduces the concept of Sovereign AI, where countries such as France, the UAE, and China are building independent AI systems to reduce reliance on U.S.-based platforms. However, he notes that achieving full technological independence is complex due to the interconnected nature of talent, data, and cloud infrastructure.

As former CFO at iLearningEngines, Naqvi argues that collaboration across borders will be essential to prevent fragmentation and ensure global AI safety and ethical standards.

Weaponized Supply Chains and Digital Trade Wars

Naqvi also discusses the rising use of “weaponized interdependence,” where countries strategically leverage control over global tech supply chains. For example, the U.S. has restricted chip exports to China, while China threatens limits on rare earth minerals essential for Western tech production.

He further examines digital mercantilism—government efforts to localize data and prioritize domestic tech firms. Examples include India’s data localization rules, the EU’s Digital Markets Act, and China’s internet governance policies.

The New Foundations of Power: Chips, Cloud, and Code

According to Sayyed Farhan Naqvi iLearningEngines veteran, geopolitical leadership will increasingly depend on who controls the digital stack. Military size and GDP are being eclipsed by dominance in semiconductors, cloud infrastructure, and AI capabilities.

“Whoever controls the chips, the cloud, and the code will control the future,” Naqvi concludes, urging policymakers and business leaders to recognize and adapt to this new digital reality.

About Sayyed Farhan Naqvi

Sayyed Farhan Naqvi is the former Chief Financial Officer at iLearningEngines, one of the fastest-growing AI platforms focused on enterprise automation. With a background in finance, innovation, and strategic tech leadership, Naqvi continues to contribute thought leadership on global technology policy and digital transformation.