In 2024, the global economy witnessed a remarkable pivot toward the digital and knowledge economy, as investment in intangible assets—including data, software, brands, and intellectual property—expanded at a rate three times faster than investment in traditional physical assets like equipment and real estate. This trend, highlighted by new findings from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and Luiss Business School in Italy, underscores a dramatic shift in how value is created and sustained in the modern age.
As interest rates remained elevated and economic recovery uneven, businesses and governments leaned increasingly toward strategic investments in innovation, digital platforms, and intellectual capital rather than conventional infrastructure. This trend reflects a growing recognition that intangible resources are crucial for long-term competitiveness and sustainable development.
The United States led the charge globally, with the highest volume of intangible asset investment in absolute terms. In fact, U.S. investment levels were nearly double those of France, Germany, Japan, and the United Kingdom combined—cementing its leadership in the global innovation economy.
Sweden stood out as the most intangible-asset-intensive economy, with such investments accounting for 16% of its GDP. It was followed closely by the U.S., France, and Finland, each reporting 15% investment intensity relative to GDP.
India also made significant progress, with nearly 10% of its GDP dedicated to intangible assets, placing it ahead of numerous EU countries and Japan. This illustrates India’s expanding focus on tech-driven growth, software exports, and digital innovation.
Brazil registered an intangible investment intensity of 8.5%, bringing it close to several European nations and further signaling the global nature of this economic transition.
As the digital age matures, this trend suggests that economies willing to prioritize intangible capital—ideas, innovation, and intellectual property—are positioning themselves for future resilience and leadership in a knowledge-driven world.