AI to hit 40% of jobs and worsen inequality, IMF says

🎯 Impact Sentiment: Concerning

📋 Summary

• The IMF warns that AI could impact nearly 40% of all jobs worldwide, with advanced economies seeing up to 60% of roles affected, and those in lower-income countries less exposed but lacking the means to benefit from AI.
• The IMF’s Kristalina Georgieva notes that AI adoption is likely to worsen inequality both within and between countries, urging policymakers to tackle the emerging divide to prevent social tension.
• While higher-income and younger workers could benefit from increased productivity and wages, lower-income and older workers risk being left behind as automation outpaces retraining.
• Governments are responding with new regulations on AI, but the IMF stresses the need for social safety nets and retraining programs to protect vulnerable workers during this transition.

💡 JR Insights

• 💼 Implication: If you’re in a role that involves routine or repetitive tasks—especially in a high-income country—expect pressure to adapt quickly. The divide between those who thrive with AI and those who can’t keep up will get wider, making upskilling non-negotiable.
• 🚨 Risk: Many workers risk being left behind, particularly the older workforce and those in roles most easily automated. Without aggressive upskilling and policy safety nets, the gap between “AI winners and losers” could spark genuine social unrest and long-term inequality.
• ✨ Takeaway: If your job could be touched by AI, don’t wait for someone to rescue you—invest in learning new tech and skills now. Watch your industry; if the writing’s on the wall, act fast to future-proof your career or risk getting boxed out.