“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.” – Albert Einstein
This timeless wisdom has never been more relevant as we stand at the crossroads of rapid technological evolution, shifting global dynamics, and the pressing need for sustainable growth. The future economy, shaped by advancements in AI, strategic transformation, and geopolitical pressures, demands that businesses approach challenges with curiosity, adaptability, and a relentless drive to question the status quo.
Recently, the Thailand Future Economy powered by Technology session, organized by the Community of Practice Technology in collaboration with Business Transformation and the Thai Institute of Directors (IOD), shed critical light on how businesses and leaders can prepare to thrive amid disruption. Featuring a distinguished panel of experts in strategy and technology, the event highlighted vital areas where organizations must focus to remain competitive. These insights, coupled with broader trends, offer a roadmap for seizing opportunities in an uncertain future.
The Acceleration of AI: From Moore’s Law to Hyper Moore’s Law
One of the key themes from the session was the unprecedented speed of technological progress. While Moore’s Law has guided us to expect computing power to double every two years, today’s AI advancements are moving at a pace far beyond that. Dubbed “Hyper Moore’s Law,” we now see AI capabilities doubling every six months—or even less. This exponential growth transforms industries, enabling innovations like predictive analytics, autonomous agents, and advanced robotics.
For instance, AI-enabled humanoid robots such as Digit are revolutionizing assembly lines, while AI systems like DeepSeek are leveraging cost-effective architectures to achieve groundbreaking results. These technologies are not just tools for efficiency—they are creating entirely new categories of products and services.
However, this rapid advancement raises questions about readiness. Are organizations prepared to harness these changes, or will they be overwhelmed by them? To adapt, businesses must adopt a mindset of continuous learning and invest heavily in reskilling their talent to remain relevant.
The Human Element in Transformation
Technology’s progress demands not just technical upgrades but also an evolution in mindset, culture, and strategy. It’s no longer enough to implement tools; businesses must focus on their underlying purpose. One of the most resonant points from the session was the observation that true transformation starts with strategy, not technology. The Board and leadership must first define the WHY—why the organization exists—before turning their attention to the *HOW” provided by technology.
This strategic clarity ensures that digital transformation efforts don’t devolve into aimless adoption of tools or systems. For example, the session emphasized the importance of linking investments in AI and technology with clear objectives, whether it’s enhancing customer experience or driving growth into new markets.
Creating a Culture of Change
Perhaps one of the most challenging barriers to transformation is culture. The panel underscored an essential truth: organizational culture can either enable or hinder adaptation. Change must become second nature to remain competitive, particularly as the “New Normal” continuously redefines itself into conditions that are not normal at all. Thai organizations, in particular, must overcome their tendency to delay action until forced, instead seizing opportunities to innovate proactively.
An insightful analogy described change as a “bus,” with early adopters boarding quickly while others linger. The danger lies in spending too much time waiting for everyone to get on board, ultimately losing momentum and progress when those ready to transform decide to leave. Successful organizations focus on those prepared to innovate while remaining open to newcomers catching up later.
Leading with Purpose and Fresh Perspectives
Leadership plays a pivotal role in navigating disruption. Modern leaders must bring fresh perspectives, encouraging their workforce to see beyond local markets and constraints. For instance, AI’s efficiency-enhancing capabilities have opened doors for Thai businesses to reach global audiences—translating Thai into multiple languages and unlocking new markets once hindered by communication barriers.
Leaders also bear the responsibility of cultivating a sense of curiosity and fostering a safe environment for experimentation. Young talent, equipped with technological fluency, can add immense value, but it must be supported by managers operating with open minds and visionary goals. At the governance level, diversity in the boardroom should extend beyond the traditional definitions of gender or expertise to include technology diversity. Boards must assess their agility and awareness to ensure they can effectively apply new innovations.
Geopolitics and Global Trade Dynamics
The future economy will also be shaped by global trade dynamics and geopolitical shifts. From trade tensions between the U.S. and China to opportunities arising in ASEAN, businesses must remain agile. For example, as the “Made in China 2025” initiative amplifies competition in key sectors such as semiconductors and AI, Thailand and other ASEAN nations stand to benefit from redirected investment and supply chain diversification.
Yet, currency volatility, trade disputes, and weak governance in emerging technologies create challenges. Companies must strengthen supply chain resilience by diversifying partnerships and preparing for unexpected disruptions. Strategic action is needed to position Thailand’s strengths—such as those in medical tourism and agri-tech—as competitive advantages in the region.
Sustainability and Innovation as Drivers of Growth
Sustainability and innovation will underpin the most successful businesses in the coming years. With ESG-focused assets exceeding $40 trillion globally, sustainability is no longer optional for corporations. Customers, investors, and governments are all demanding greater accountability.
The key is to integrate sustainability with technological innovation. From Eindhoven Airport’s AI-powered efficiency models to local innovations like disease-screening technology developed in Thailand, there is massive potential for businesses to lead in solving global challenges. Companies that marry clean energy practices with advanced tech stand to dominate their markets and create meaningful, lasting value.
Turning Lessons into Action
The Thailand Future Economy powered by Technology session emphasized the responsibility of today’s leaders to act decisively. Whether navigating AI adoption, shaping resilient supply chains, or fostering a culture of adaptation, businesses cannot afford to lose momentum. As Einstein’s quote reminds us, continuous questioning of our methods and assumptions is the fuel that drives progress.
To thrive in the future economy, organizations should consider these actionable takeaways:
- Maximize AI Integration – Push the boundaries of what AI can do, not just to improve operational efficiency but to invent entirely new solutions.
- Invest in Talent – Prioritize reskilling to ensure your workforce can keep up with rapid technological advancements.
- Strengthen Global Connections – Diversify markets and supply chains while remaining flexible to geopolitical shifts.
- Foster Courageous Leadership – Empower leaders who are willing to take calculated risks and inspire innovation.
- Build for Sustainability – Merge sustainability with innovation to balance long-term growth with environmental and social responsibility.
Technology Brings the ‘HOW,’ but Leaders Must Define the ‘WHY’
I’d like to conclude with a key insight from today’s session. Technology introduces new methods—the HOW—to accelerate work and boost effectiveness. But the ultimate purpose of a company lies in its WHY. Why does this organization exist, and what value does it aim to deliver?
It’s crucial that Boards and Management balance the excitement of new technologies with clarity around their ultimate purpose. Losing sight of your WHY while chasing technology-driven HOWs could disorient your organization and weaken its impact—an outcome detrimental to all involved. At the end of the day, the responsibility for this misalignment resides with the Board and Management.
The path ahead is both complex and abundant with opportunities. With AI accelerating change, geopolitics molding trade, and sustainability rising as a driving force, the next decade will favor businesses that are prepared to learn from the past, act in the present, and plan for the future.
For those willing to adapt, question, and explore, the rewards of navigating this transformed world are immense. Leaders and organizations that balance Einstein’s wisdom with bold action will not only survive but thrive in the future economy.
Dr.Nattavut Kulnides