Global Scans · Decent Work and Growth · Weekly Summary

In September 2015, 193 world leaders agreed to 17 Global Goals for Sustainable Development. If these Goals are completed, it would mean an end to extreme poverty, inequality and climate change by 2030.
Goal 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.

• [New] Initially driven by labour-saving productivity gains, growth in the 2030s becomes increasingly dominated by AI's role in accelerating innovation, compressing decades of scientific and technological progress into just a few years. GOV.UK
• [New] Employers will need to rethink workforce planning in 2026, as artificial intelligence automates low-complexity work, reshapes entry-level roles, and raises demand for staff who can combine technical ability with human skills. Reed.com
• [New] As the world of work continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: organizations that embrace inclusive recruitment practices will be better equipped to attract, engage and retain the talent they need for future success. Acorn
• [New] While microfinance has expanded financial inclusion in India, sustaining future growth will require a shift towards meso-finance and stronger financial services for growing enterprises. Current Affairs - NEXT IAS
• [New] Institut Pasteur in Iran, continuing its work despite significant operational disruptions, coordinates a national dengue diagnostic network, conducts genomic surveillance and serotyping of circulating strains, and leads vector and One Health investigations in high-risk areas. Pasteur Network
• [New] The New York City MSA recorded actual growth 1.4 percentage points below its predicted level, corresponding to an income shortfall of approximately $3.5 billion. Office of the New York City Comptroller Mark Levine
• [New] The Asian Development Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the ASEAN + 3 Macroeconomic Research Office are more optimistic, but still predict growth of 7% in 2026. / Vietnam Fortune
• [New] The World Bank expects Vietnam's growth in 2026 to slow to 6.8%; the OECD is even more bearish, forecasting 6.2% growth. Fortune
• [New] The S&P 500's P/E near 21 can be justified by solid earnings growth and a resilient U.S. economy, although further expansion will require continued cooperation from key drivers such as inflation and interest rates. Wealth Management Midwest
• [New] Asia Pacific is projected to register the fastest regional growth through 2033 due to expanding healthcare access, rising antibiotic consumption, and increasing prevalence of resistant bacterial infections. Persistence Market Research
• [New] Functional pet treats and supplements, fresh and refrigerated pet food meal subscriptions, and personalized AI-driven nutrition platforms represent the three highest-growth investment vectors through 2034. IMARC Group
• [New] With bilateral merchandise trade nearing $27 billion and a target of $50 billion by 2030, both countries are focusing on innovation-led growth. Yourstory
• [New] Power demand could soon be even greater than predicted by DESNZ because of the growth of AI. / UK Electricity Info
• [New] With 61% of workers wanting more AI training and 54% expecting their tasks to change in three years, it's clear consumer behaviour is shifting toward upskilling fast to stay competitive at work. Careertrainer.ai
• [New] The humanization trend presents a significant growth opportunity for manufacturers, enabling differentiation through innovation, quality, and a deeper connection with pet owners across Europe. Persistence Market Research
• [New] Despite weakening somewhat in 2026, investment is expected to outpace GDP growth throughout the projection horizon as uncertainty related to the war in the Middle East recedes, digitalization efforts intensify and defence and infrastructure spending increases. European Central Bank
• [New] The semiconductor sector will experience strong growth across the global manufacturing economy, appearing in the top performing sectors for 8 of the 10 largest manufacturing economies. Modern Materials Handling
• [New] The growth in electric interest as well as adjustments and flexibilities recently introduced in the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate mean that we expect to see compliance in 2026, as in previous years. Road to 2030
• [New] Fortune Business Insights estimates $44.59 billion in 2026 and growth to $104.57 billion by 2034. New Market Pitch
• [New] The euro area is expected to expand by 0.8%, while Japan's growth is forecast at 0.7%. The Times Of India
• [New] The region with the fastest growth rate in Canada will experience a compound annual growth rate which exceeds 9% until the year 2030 because of both green building incentives and net-zero emission targets. Transpire Insight
• [New] The Energy Management segment is anticipated to witness the highest growth rate through 2034. GlobeNewswire

Last updated: 21 June 2026