Since 2010, global investment in artificial intelligence (AI) has approached $600 billion, with the United States and China together accounting for nearly two-thirds, or 65%, according to Cathy Li, Head of AI, Data and Metaverse and a member of the Executive Committee at the World Economic Forum (WEF).
Prior to the WEF’s Annual Meeting in Davos, where Li is set to speak later today, she highlighted that global AI investments are growing at an annual rate of approximately 33%, illustrating the swift expansion of AI development globally.
This rapid growth is anticipated to significantly impact energy consumption, with global electricity demand expected to surge from around 420 terawatt hours today to nearly 1,200 terawatt hours by 2030.
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The transformation driven by AI is poised to change labor markets around the globe. Referring to data from the WEF’s Future of Jobs Survey, Li stated that between 2025 and 2030, changes in the labor market could create and displace jobs affecting 22% of the current workforce.
While approximately 14% of existing jobs—around 170 million positions—are forecasted to emerge, about 8% of jobs, or 92 million roles, may be lost. This would lead to a net employment increase of about 7%, translating to an additional 78 million jobs worldwide.
Such topics are expected to be central during the discussions at the 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum, commonly referred to as Davos 2026, set for January 19 to 23 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland. The forum will take place amid heightened geopolitical tensions, rapid technological advancements, and significant societal changes.
This year’s WEF meeting is anticipated to draw record participation from governments, with around 400 political leaders expected to join nearly 850 CEOs from major global companies. The political group includes 65 heads of state and government, along with six representatives from the G7 countries.
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