IMF Says AI Could Affect 40 Percent of Global Jobs

The report warned that AI could deepen ‘income and wealth inequality within countries.’

A visitor watches an AI (artificial intelligence) sign on an animated screen at the Mobile World Congress, in Barcelona, Spain. Josep Lago/AFP via Getty Images

Around 40 percent of jobs worldwide will be affected by artificial intelligence (AI) as the technology will shape the nature of future work, according to a study by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The study, released on Jan. 14, found that AI will impact high-skilled jobs. In developed economies, exposure to AI is greater, as 60 percent of these professions will be affected by AI, primarily “due to the prevalence of cognitive-task-oriented jobs.” These economies will face more risks, but benefit more from AI than less-developed and emerging economies.