AI Takes Center Stage at Davos as World Leaders Tackle Global Challenges
Staff Editor World Leaders Converge in Davos as AI and Trump Dominate Discussions
As the World Economic Forum kicks off in Davos, Switzerland, global tech and business leaders are gathering to address pressing issues, with artificial intelligence (AI) and Donald Trump’s potential return to the White House taking center stage.
The annual convention, known for bringing together influential figures, is seeing a shift in AI discussions from hype to practical applications. Mihir Shukla, CEO of Automation Anywhere, highlighted the potential of AI in pattern recognition, citing an example of a boardroom AI agent trained on company data. However, challenges in AI implementation, including revenue and credit distribution within companies, remain a concern.
Raj Sharma of EY emphasized AI’s influence on commercial models, predicting a transition to a “service-as-a-software” model based on outcomes rather than hours. This shift is prompting internal discussions on ownership and revenue responsibility for AI agents within organizations.
The forum’s agenda is dominated by discussions on agentic AI, Trump’s tariff policies, and crypto regulation. Cryptocurrency’s growing significance is evident, with regulatory debates and market milestones drawing attention.
This year’s Davos is also notable for its warmer-than-usual temperatures, affecting the traditional “suits and boots” attire of attendees. This stands in stark contrast to the severe cold weather currently gripping the US East Coast.
Emerging economies are making their presence felt, with increased representation from countries like Brazil, Indonesia, Mongolia, and Korea. These nations are particularly focused on the implications of Donald Trump’s potential reelection for the developing world, engaging in strategic discussions on global capital flows and policy impacts.
As the forum progresses, networking remains a crucial aspect, with notable parties hosted by JPMorgan, Google, Qualcomm, and others. These social events, particularly smaller gatherings, offer opportunities for deeper conversations and connections among attendees.
The World Economic Forum continues to serve as a platform for global leaders to address critical issues, with this year’s event highlighting the intersection of technology, politics, and economic development in an ever-changing world landscape.
