Why Apollo’s CEO is Betting Billions on a 'Global Industrial Renaissance' | WSJ Leadership Institute

Apollo Global Management CEO Marc Rowan oversees $1.1 trillion in assets. Here is why he believes the world is entering a "global industrial renaissance" driven by AI, data centers and an insatiable demand for energy. In this full interview, Rowan explains why traditional banks can no longer shoulder the burden of financing today's multibillion-dollar infrastructure projects and how private credit is stepping in to fund the future of compute and power. He also breaks down Apollo's unique business model—bridging the gap between retirement savings and corporate origination—and shares the core principles driving Apollo’s "intellectually insubordinate" culture.  Recorded on October 21, 2026. Chapters: 00:00 - The Global Industrial Renaissance 02:38 - Why the US is short on energy and chips 05:00 - Why project finance is shifting from banks to private credit 10:32 - Funding massive energy projects 17:11 - Inside Apollo's $1.1 trillion financial empire 20:25 - Leadership and company culture The WSJ Leadership Institute Presents: Leaders. The podcast series brings you conversations with the top executives shaping business today. Hosted by Alan Murray, president of the WSJ Leadership Institute, the series goes beyond headlines to explore how leadership really works in times of upheaval, transformation, and uncertainty. #Apollo #AI #WSJ