In the next decade, society must grapple with the acute challenges generated by global trends that have transformed our economic, political, social, and environmental systems. The efforts of corporate executives and governmental authorities will determine the future of the planet.
In the U.S., Europe, and China, 10% of the population owns 70% of all assets and the bottom 50% owns less than 2%. This concentration of money, land, and property in the hands of a small group of people is accelerating. Meanwhile, the incomes of most people have been frozen for a decade. As a result, financial inequality is growing, along with dissatisfaction with governments and businesses. When governments lose their influence because of public pressure and popular discontent, can corporations help change the situation?