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Predictions for the Future: Economy, Technology, and Sustainability
This article is forward-looking, based on recent news and expert analysis to anticipate trends that will shape the global landscape in 2026. It is not news, but an analysis grounded in current dynamics.
Global Economy in Transition
November 2025 marks the beginning of a period of global economic transition, characterized by a delicate balance: the economy is too strong for further stimulus, but still lacks room for more restrictive policies. Corporate earnings in Europe exceeded expectations, despite US tariffs, while Asian and US stock markets opened higher. Oil prices rose after OPEC+ suspended its planned production increase for 2026, reflecting caution regarding future supply and demand.
China has eased export controls on rare earths and semiconductors, resuming purchases of soybeans from the US, while the Americans have reduced tariffs. Meanwhile, India plans to triple incentives for domestic production of rare earth magnets, seeking greater strategic autonomy. In Brazil, negotiations with the US are progressing towards a broader trade agreement and targets of US$200 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.
Technological Advances and Artificial Intelligence
China is consolidating its leadership in artificial intelligence (AI), investing in chips, cloud computing, and open models, challenging US technological dominance. In Asia, the digital financial revolution is already a reality, with banks and funds incorporating AI to improve portfolio management and risk assessment. According to a Deloitte report, 80% of large Asian financial institutions plan to increase investments in AI by 2026.
Influencer marketing continues to thrive, adapting to a landscape of multiple media and emerging social networks, where personalization and engagement become crucial for brands and consumers.
Sustainability and Global Agreements
Brazil will host COP30 in Belém, a crucial event for the global climate agenda. The UNFCCC report points to significant progress in the last decade, such as the doubling of renewable energy capacity and the reduction of emissions intensity in agriculture. However, challenges persist, including low investment in electricity grids and increased emissions in the construction sector.
Experts warn that 2025 and 2026 will be crucial for the implementation of effective climate action, focusing on integrating global policies and the real economy. Investment in ESG (environmental, social, and governance) is expected to reach US$53 trillion by 2025, driving sustainable business practices, especially in Brazil.
Practical Impacts and Opportunities
- Global financial markets may face corrections of 10 to 15%, requiring caution from investors in the face of persistent inflation and high interest rates.
- In the industry, Brazil will have to adapt to global policies that influence the construction sector, opening up space for innovation and sustainability.
- The advancement of AI and fintech is redefining the financial system, with gains in efficiency, but also regulatory and security challenges.
- Trade negotiations between Brazil and the US could intensify bilateral trade, with positive impacts for strategic sectors such as defense and agriculture.
Final Considerations
The outlook for 2026 is one of simultaneous complexity and opportunity. The global economy is navigating between adjustments and moderate growth, technology is advancing rapidly with AI as a key player, and sustainability is gaining urgency and scale. Companies, governments, and investors need to be attentive and prepared for these transformations, which will define the course of the coming decades.
Photo by Basma Alghali on Unsplash
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