AI boom drives intangible investment to record level: UN

The latest report from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) reveals that global investments in intangible assets have reached an unprecedented milestone, surpassing $10 trillion in 2025. This surge in intangible investments, which includes areas such as software, data, and research, has significantly outpaced tangible investments in recent years, marking a pivotal shift in the global economic landscape. The findings, released on Wednesday, underscore the profound impact of the ongoing artificial intelligence (AI) boom on investment trends.

According to the study, intangible investments have seen a consistent annual growth rate of 3.5% in real terms since 2008. In stark contrast, tangible investments have only managed a modest growth rate of 0.98% during the same period. This disparity highlights a structural transformation in how value is created within economies, with intangible assets increasingly becoming central to economic development. The report is part of the World Intangible Investment Highlights 2026, co-published with the Luiss Business School based in Rome.

The Role of AI in Investment Growth

The AI boom has been a significant driver behind the record high in intangible asset investments. While AI initially spurred physical investments in infrastructure such as data centers and semiconductor manufacturing, its lasting influence is primarily seen in the realm of software, data, research and development, and corporate reorganization. WIPO's analysis indicates that investments in software and databases have experienced the highest growth rates among intangible asset categories, with an annual increase of 7.3% from 2013 to 2023. This growth outpaces other categories, such as organizational capital and brand investments, which saw growth rates of 4.9% and 4.4%, respectively.

The report also emphasizes the resilience of intangible investments in the face of economic challenges, including high interest rates and trade tensions. Between 2020 and 2025, intangible investments grew by 5.5% annually in real terms, compared to a mere 3.2% for tangible investments. This resilience suggests that businesses are increasingly recognizing the value of intangible assets, particularly in uncertain economic climates.

Insights from the Data

The United States stands out as the leader in intangible investments, accounting for nearly $5 trillion in 2025, which is approximately six times the amount invested by Japan, the second-largest contributor. Germany follows closely behind Japan. Furthermore, Sweden has established itself as the most intangible-intensive economy, with intangible investments representing 17.4% of its GDP, followed by the United States at 15.6% and France at 15.2%. Notably, India, Japan, and the Philippines have recorded the fastest growth rates in intangible investments, indicating a potential shift in the global investment landscape.

The report also sheds light on the economic significance of brand investments, which reached $1.4 trillion across the 29 economies studied. The United States leads in this category as well, with brand investments exceeding $566 billion in 2025, followed by Britain at $137 billion and Japan at $112 billion. These figures further illustrate the critical role that brands play in the broader context of intangible investments.

Established in 1967, WIPO plays a vital role in assisting creators and entrepreneurs in protecting their intellectual property across borders. The organization's findings reflect a growing recognition of the importance of intangible assets in fostering innovation and economic growth.

Why it matters

The implications of this report are significant for creators and technologists. As the landscape of investment shifts toward intangible assets, there is an increasing need for businesses to adapt their strategies. Understanding the value of intellectual property, software development, and brand management will be crucial for success in this new environment. For technologists, the data underscores the importance of investing in AI and related technologies, as these areas are driving the growth of intangible assets.

Moreover, the resilience of intangible investments suggests that companies focusing on R&D, innovative software solutions, and brand development may be better positioned to navigate economic uncertainties. As the global economy continues to evolve, staying ahead in the intangible asset space will be essential for creators and entrepreneurs aiming to leverage new opportunities for growth and innovation.