The Future Of Global Growth, 18 Key Industries To Watch For 2025-2040

Global Growth, 18 Key Industries To Watch

As we step into the new year in a matter of days, a number of industries are primed to reshape the global economy, driving not only economic growth but also transforming how we live, work, and interact.

According to senior partner Chris Bradley and his coauthors, 18 industries with high growth potential, known as the “arenas of tomorrow,” are set to generate staggering revenues and profits, possibly ranging from $29 trillion to $48 trillion in total.

These sectors are expected to redefine how we consume data, approach health, and even travel.

Here’s a breakdown of the industries that will dominate the global growth space in the coming decades.

1. E-commerce ($14 trillion–$20 trillion)

The e-commerce sector is already one of the most influential industries in the world, and its trajectory is only set to accelerate. As digital shopping becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, the industry’s expansion is expected to generate trillions in revenue. With innovations in logistics, personalized experiences, and augmented reality, e-commerce will continue to disrupt traditional retail and lead the charge in global consumer spending.

2. AI Software and Services ($1.5 trillion–$4.6 trillion)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a transformative force in nearly every sector. From machine learning and natural language processing to autonomous systems, AI software and services are set to generate massive revenue streams. As businesses and governments adopt AI to enhance productivity, streamline operations, and solve complex problems, the potential for growth in this field is astronomical.

3. Cloud Services ($1.6 trillion–$3.4 trillion)

The cloud services market is a critical enabler of digital transformation across industries. With businesses increasingly moving their operations to the cloud, this industry will see continued growth in the coming years. From data storage and software as a service (SaaS) to infrastructure as a service (IaaS), the cloud will be the backbone of innovation, providing the infrastructure needed to support the next generation of technologies.

4. Electric Vehicles ($2.5 trillion–$3.2 trillion)

The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is a major global trend, driven by environmental concerns, government regulations, and advancements in battery technology. As EV adoption rises, the industry will experience exponential growth, from vehicle sales to charging infrastructure and battery production. By 2040, electric vehicles will be a central pillar of the automotive sector, reshaping transportation worldwide.

5. Digital Advertisements ($2.1 trillion–$2.9 trillion)

Digital advertising has already overtaken traditional advertising in terms of spending, and its dominance will only grow. With the rise of social media, search engines, and targeted advertising, businesses will continue to allocate a larger share of their budgets to online platforms. As consumer behavior shifts and data analytics improves, digital ads will become even more personalized and effective, further fueling the industry’s expansion.

6. Semiconductors ($1.7 trillion–$2.4 trillion)

Semiconductors are the backbone of modern electronics, powering everything from smartphones to advanced computing systems. As the demand for high-performance chips increases, driven by the rise of AI, cloud computing, and IoT devices, the semiconductor industry will see explosive growth. Innovations in chip design and manufacturing processes will be crucial in meeting the global demand for faster, more efficient electronics.

7. Shared Autonomous Vehicles ($610 billion–$2.3 trillion)

The rise of autonomous vehicles, particularly shared fleets, represents a major shift in how we think about transportation. These vehicles could dramatically reduce costs, increase efficiency, and improve road safety. As self-driving technology matures and regulatory hurdles are cleared, shared autonomous vehicles will likely become a ubiquitous part of urban landscapes, reshaping mobility and transportation infrastructure.

8. Space ($960 billion–$1.6 trillion)

The space industry is entering a new era of exploration and commercialization. From satellite communications and space tourism to lunar missions and asteroid mining, the possibilities are endless. As private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin push the boundaries of space exploration, the industry will continue to expand, opening up new frontiers for business and innovation.

9. Cybersecurity ($590 billion–$1.2 trillion)

With the increasing reliance on digital technologies comes the growing need for robust cybersecurity solutions. As cyber threats evolve in complexity and scale, the demand for advanced security technologies will soar. The cybersecurity industry will play a crucial role in safeguarding personal, corporate, and governmental data, creating a thriving market for software, services, and consulting.

10. Batteries ($810 billion–$1.1 trillion)

Batteries are at the heart of the transition to renewable energy and electric vehicles. As the demand for clean energy sources grows, so too will the need for efficient, high-capacity batteries. The market for advanced batteries, including those for grid storage and electric vehicles, will experience rapid expansion, driven by technological advancements in energy storage and production.

11. Modular Construction ($540 billion–$1.1 trillion)

Modular construction, which involves prefabricating building components off-site and assembling them on location, is gaining popularity as a faster, more cost-effective way to build. With advancements in construction technology and a growing demand for affordable housing, modular construction will likely play a key role in addressing global housing shortages and reshaping the construction industry.

12. Streaming Video ($510 billion–$1.0 trillion)

The streaming video industry has seen explosive growth in recent years, with platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ leading the charge. As more consumers shift away from traditional cable TV and embrace on-demand content, the market for streaming services will continue to expand. Innovations in content delivery and user experience will further drive growth in this sector.

13. Video Games ($550 billion–$910 billion)

The video game industry has evolved from a niche entertainment medium to a global powerhouse, with billions of players worldwide. As technology improves, gaming will continue to grow, with virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and cloud gaming providing new ways to experience interactive entertainment. Esports, gaming platforms, and in-game purchases will also contribute to the industry’s expansion.

14. Robotics ($190 billion–$910 billion)

Robotics is transforming industries from manufacturing to healthcare. With advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning, robots are becoming more autonomous, efficient, and capable of performing complex tasks. As the demand for automation grows, particularly in industries like logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing, robotics will see substantial growth.

15. Industrial and Consumer Biotech ($340 billion–$900 billion)

Biotechnology is poised to revolutionize everything from healthcare to agriculture. Innovations in gene editing, personalized medicine, and biologics are expected to drive significant growth in the biotech industry. As the global population grows and the demand for healthcare solutions rises, biotech companies will be at the forefront of tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

16. Future Air Mobility ($75 billion–$340 billion)

The future of air mobility involves flying vehicles such as drones and air taxis. With advances in electric propulsion and autonomous flight technology, the industry could redefine transportation. By 2040, we could see urban air mobility become a reality, with drones delivering goods and air taxis providing on-demand transportation in cities.

17. Drugs for Obesity and Related Conditions ($120 billion–$280 billion)

As obesity rates continue to rise globally, the market for drugs targeting obesity and related conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, is expected to grow. Innovations in pharmaceuticals, including weight loss drugs and treatments for metabolic disorders, will drive the expansion of this sector.

18. Nuclear Fission Power Plants ($65 billion–$150 billion)

While renewable energy sources like solar and wind dominate the green energy landscape, nuclear fission power plants will still play a critical role in providing reliable, large-scale energy. As advancements in nuclear technology, including safer and more efficient reactors, come to the forefront, the nuclear energy industry will continue to evolve, contributing to global energy solutions.

The Last Bit

The next two decades will see transformative changes across these 18 industries, reshaping the global economy in ways we are only beginning to imagine.

With the potential to generate trillions in revenue and reshape the way we live and work, these sectors will be the engines of growth and innovation, ushering in a new era of economic dynamism. Whether it’s through advances in AI, the expansion of electric vehicles, or breakthroughs in biotechnology, the industries of tomorrow will be key in shaping our future.