Economic Models & Inequality
How AI reshapes economies, wealth distribution, and economic power — including the role of data as an economic asset and the gap between richer and poorer countries and regions.
Trajectory
Controlled growth reducing inequality
Main driver
Regulated data value; targeted Global South investment
Leading actors
Governments; international agreements
State in 2040
Fairer distribution; data value regulated
New economic models prioritise controlled growth. Governments are increasingly regulating the economic value of data and holding large tech companies more accountable. International agreements promote targeted investment in digital infrastructure in the Global South, thereby reducing income differences. Strict global regulations on technology transfer ensure a controlled but fairer distribution of AI resources and capabilities.