IMF Warns Artificial Intelligence Could Transform 40% of Global Jobs

2026, October 12

International / Thailand

International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has warned that artificial intelligence could affect approximately 40% of jobs worldwide, rising to as much as 60% in advanced economies. Speaking at the IMF and World Bank annual meetings in Bangkok, she described AI's impact on employment as a major economic challenge, with some roles likely to disappear, others to change substantially and new jobs emerging.

The IMF also highlighted AI's mixed economic effects. Heavy investment in AI infrastructure is helping support global economic growth of around 3%, but the technology could widen inequalities between workers, countries and businesses. Georgieva urged governments to prepare through education, workforce training and policies that help workers adapt to technological change.

Why it matters: AI is becoming a major force in the global economy. Governments and businesses face growing pressure to capture its productivity benefits while managing job displacement and inequality.

Sources: Reuters — IMF assessment of AI investment and global growth · The Times — IMF warning on AI and employment