If given a choice to have a superpower, many people would probably choose the ability to foresee the future. However, since sadly that superpower doesn't exist, we simply have to settle for the next best thing: expert predictions.
Analysis of hundreds of predictions for the year 2022 by Visual Capitalist revealed that the general mood for the year is "cautiously optimistic."
Economically speaking, experts believe that the global economy will grow, although at a slower rate than its 2021 growth. Moreover, monetary policies will constrict, equity returns will decrease, and price volatility will increase.
It is also expected that the issues that plagued 2021 will carry over into 2022, along with technological disruptions. Sociopolitical issues that will shape international relations include climate change, geopolitical issues, and cybersecurity issues.
On a more detailed note, the main actors in the aforementioned geopolitical tensions include Iran and the States, Ukraine and Russia, and Taiwan and China.
2022 is shaping to be a good year for laborers as the labor dynamics will shift in a way that gives more bargaining power to them. According to Visual Capitalist:
The labor shortages that emerged during the pandemic will remain in place in 2022 and beyond. Certain sectors, such as cybersecurity, are facing acute shortages of skilled workers
There is a broad consensus that the future of office work is “hybrid”. Companies that don’t offer flexibility will face a disadvantage in attracting talent
The internet and social media have opened up a number of career pathways for individuals to earn an income beyond simply working for a company
Work/life balance and burnout will be central points in discussions around workplace culture
Similarly, there is a positive year ahead for digital content creators because the Creator Economy is foreseen to flourish. Inflation is predicted to slowly ease off.
These predictions, although backed by experts, do not guarantee anything. They only serve as a guide but ultimately, the ball is still in the peoples' hand.
Image credit: Nick Routley/Visual Capitalist
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