Right now, the world is progressing in two major directions: on one side, there are risks like wars, economic uncertainties, and famines; on the other, we face major issues such as climate change. These situations are prompting investors to seek new opportunities. So, what could really be the "next big thing"? Let’s explore together.
First, let’s talk about renewable energy and clean technologies, which are now firmly established in our lives. Moving away from fossil fuels due to climate issues has become essential.
According to the International Energy Agency’s 2024 report, renewable energy investments are expected to increase by approximately 20%. This means around $5 trillion of new investments could be made over the next 6-7 years.
From our observations, roughly $300 billion was invested in projects like solar and wind in 2024. Big players such as Tesla and Vestas are leading this sector.
The great thing is, this field keeps costs low in the long run and is highly sustainable. Additionally, government incentives and carbon restrictions are accelerating the sector’s growth.
From sustainable farming to digital assets
Next, considering the looming threat of a major food crisis, let's look at agriculture and food technologies. As risks of scarcity increase, interest in food and agricultural investments is also rising.
Areas equipped with AI and IoT technologies, such as sustainable farming projects, have huge growth potential in the coming years. For example, this market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 12.5% until 2027.
Furthermore, plant-based products and lab-grown meats like Beyond Meat are spreading rapidly. The global population is projected to reach 9.8 billion by 2050, which will significantly increase food demand. Although investing in these areas carries risks, the potential profits are substantial.
Turning to traditional safe havens during tough times is a wise move
Of course, the third prominent sector is defence industry and security technologies. As geopolitical tensions and conflicts intensify, investments here are also rising.
Cybersecurity, for example, reached a valuation of around $300 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow about 10% over the next few years.
Unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) and other security technologies are also garnering attention. While gaining access to this sector isn’t easy, careful selection of stocks can still offer profit opportunities.
Fourth, let's consider gold and precious metals. Turning to traditional safe havens during tough times is a wise move.
After gold, silver has also been quite active. Similar trends are seen in other precious metals, with their prices increasing alongside industrial uses.
Now, let’s look at promising digital and cryptocurrency markets. DeFi, NFTs, and other digital assets are very popular among the new generation of investors.
The total market value of Bitcoin surpassed $1 trillion some time ago. Additionally, DeFi projects are growing rapidly; their trading volume approaches $300 billion, with a growth rate of about 40%. However, caution is advised due to sudden crashes.
The future of investment
Let me also share some upcoming or not yet fully widespread new-generation investment instruments and technologies. The investment world is being shaped by these emerging technologies, and serious efforts are underway.
First are “Sentient” Investment Portfolios. These are fully adaptive, automated portfolios that evolve with the advanced development of AI and big data analytics. They continuously monitor market movements and adjust your portfolio instantly based on your risk preferences. These technologies could create a new environment where investors act as "shareholders" or "market observers."
Second is Hybrid Energy and Global Energy Sharing Systems. This emerging concept not only involves renewable energy production but also encompasses energy distribution and sharing. Although it might sound unfamiliar now, microgrids and energy tokens can enable individuals or companies to sell their excess energy to others. This sector can also be supported by new financial instruments.
In the future, investment decisions will be shaped not only by financial gains but also by social and environmental impacts
Third, “Quantum Finance Instruments” are on the horizon. The combination of quantum computing and AI will make predicting markets much more complex and powerful. While these are not fully implemented yet, quantum-backed financial instruments and derivatives could attract significant investor interest in the coming years.
Fourth, Digital and Blockchain-Based Universal Insurance and Guarantee Systems are also being developed. These transparent and trustworthy solutions based on blockchain could serve as alternatives to traditional insurance, and investors could develop new instruments in this space.
Finally, Advanced Social and Environmental Impact Investments are set to grow. In the future, investment decisions will be shaped not only by financial gains but also by social and environmental impacts. With sophisticated algorithms and IoT sensors, sustainability and impact measurements will be automated. This will take the concept of “impact investing” to a new level.
In brief, thanks to AI and blockchain technologies, the new financial instruments and investment tools we can’t even imagine today will be part of our lives in the coming years. These fields will not only provide solutions for ecological, energy, and social issues but also offer huge opportunities for investors.
It looks like a lot could change in the near future, and the rules might be rewritten.
