As 2024 draws to a close, we’re revisiting our most popular insights of the year. Today, we give you our best-read pieces from the McKinsey Global Institute, which focus on topics including navigating the energy transition, investing in productivity growth, and more.

1. Geopolitics and the geometry of global trade Global trade patterns are reconfiguring. More shifts are likely and businesses need to be aware of the potential trade-offs of different paths ahead. Be prepared for a range of shifts
2. A new future of work: The race to deploy AI and raise skills in Europe and beyond To gain the full productivity benefits of generative AI and other technologies, Europe and the United States will need to focus both on improving human capital and accelerating technology adoption. Seize the moment
3. The next big arenas of competition Arenas are industries that transform the business landscape. Eighteen future arenas could reshape the global economy and generate $29 trillion to $48 trillion in revenues by 2040. Dive into the report
3. The next big arenas of competition Arenas are industries that transform the business landscape. Eighteen future arenas could reshape the global economy and generate $29 trillion to $48 trillion in revenues by 2040. Dive into the report
4. The hard stuff: Navigating the physical realities of the energy transition. The energy transition is a physical transformation in its early stages. What challenges lie ahead? Forge a path
5. Investing in productivity growth It’s time to raise investment and catch the next productivity wave. Pave the way

6. A microscope on small businesses: Spotting opportunities to boost productivity MSMEs are vital for growth and jobs, but struggle with productivity. The route to higher productivity lies in creating a win-win economic fabric for all companies. View the report

7. Accelerating Europe: Competitiveness for a new era Turbulent times have highlighted new fragilities in Europe’s economies. Addressing them could be the catalyst for a new wave of competitiveness and growth. Safeguard growth and prosperity

9. A better life everyone can afford: Lifting a quarter billion people to economic empowerment

Lowering the costs of basic goods and services to improve living standards. Build more balanced economies

10. America’s small businesses: Time to think big

US micro-, small, and medium-size enterprises, like their global counterparts, struggle with productivity. But a win–win economic fabric connecting all businesses can maximize their potential. Reach the next level of growth

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