We are well entrenched in the 4th Industrial Revolution, the world markets are global, communications connectivity is imminent with Nanosatellites, and the winners of the space race are no longer obvious.
Globalization
Every economy has the opportunity to become a global leader. Trade inequities will become a thing of the past as new alliances are formed in the midst of super-power disputes.
Recession
Over the past decade we’ve seen a long economic expansion—the longest on the record books in the U.S.—leading economies such as U.S. Europe and Japan may attempt to push towards recession as their stabilization go-to—growing economies such as Africa will continue to rise up from the undersides.
Elder Based Demographics
Advances in technology, medicine and populations that have departed from stress as a way of life, are leading to increasing life expectancy, an aging global population and a growing middle class in developing countries. More older people and more people with disposable income are boosting demand for a diverse array of consumer goods.
Climate Change
Rapid response to global climate change is imminent as we enter the new decade. The measures must be drastic, calculated and able to surpass long-lasting changes in weather. Survival of the species and the planet will become the overarching theme, with economic benefits taking a back seat.
Robots & Automation
By 2025 we will see the first of many human protects against industrial robotics. A growing low technologically skilled working population coupled with an advancing artificial intelligence will foster issues that will carry-forward unabated to the end of the decade.
Splinternet
China’s surging technological self-sufficiency has led to a split in global supply chains and technology rules and digital standards, as some countries have adopted Chinese standards while others stick with the currently ubiquitous U.S. standards. But, the U.S. cannot allow itself to grow complacent, as China picks up all non-industrialized economies offering them the ability to capitalize on the globalization opportunity.
Moral Capitalism
Morality in capitalism must become a truism, not a momentary capitalization on social ills and trend. Otherwise by 2026 we could see moral capitalism disintegrate into food festivals, sidewalk sales and days off work.
Smart Everything
Smart technology will come at the expense of privacy. By 2027 we will be at 10G+ Satellite networks. Some changes will improve life; while others will be a departure from what has become normalcy of privacy in industrialized nations.
Space
In the new space age, Nanosatellites will be used to extend broadband connectivity to the 40% of the world without good access to the internet. The opening up of connectivity will further break down global barriers to building sustainable economies.