WEF: 54% of Top Executives Expect Job Cuts

Experts from the World Economic Forum (WEF) published the January analytical report “Four Futures for Jobs in the New Economy: AI and Talent in 2030,” based on a survey of more than 10,000 top executives and a series of expert consultations. The iGN editorial team highlights the key findings:

AI in Business by 2025

Level of AI Adoption

According to the report, 88% of companies have already used AI in their operations, compared with 55% in 2022. At the same time, 23% of companies reported implementing AI agents.

Demand for Skills and Corporate Priorities

Demand for AI-related skills has increased by 70% year over year, according to LinkedIn. 72% of chief strategy officers named AI commercialization as a key trend for the next five years, while 24% cited talent shortages as one of the main factors.

Top Executives’ Expectations of AI

Impact on Employment and Business

54% of surveyed top executives expect job cuts as a result of AI adoption. At the same time, 24% believe AI will lead to the creation of new jobs.

45% of respondents forecast higher business profitability, 37% expect greater availability of goods and services, and 30% anticipate lower prices.

Social and Market Effects

24% of top executives expect market consolidation, while 21% foresee increased discrimination against certain demographic groups. Only 12% of respondents pointed to wage growth.

The Role of AI Skills

WEF’s View on the Labor Market

WEF experts note that rapid AI development combined with a lack of relevant skills among employees may lead to higher unemployment and lower consumer confidence. When workers have these skills, AI is expected to complement employees rather than replace them.

Job Outlook Through 2030

Job Creation and Losses

According to the report, by 2030 around 170 million new jobs will be created due to AI and other macro trends, while 92 million existing jobs will disappear.