By long term here I mean a horizon of around 15-20 years. Take a look carefully into what will be immensely important after 15-20 years on this planet. Ya ya, energy we all know! Besides that there are a few sectors that will surely pay off in the long run is we don’t destroy the planet before that.
The growing population of this world and specifically the emerging markets will need to be fed. As globalization keeps advancing (and yes, Africa is already being included in this globalization advancement) people will simply need more food. Medical advancements will help people live longer and they will need to be fed longer too. I strongly believe that in 20 years from now, the big food grain companies will be a happy lot (not to say that they aren’t already). The debate for GMO’s is on and will continue for a while longer until it becomes clear to one side that a hungry population can revolt and lawlessness will result in various parts of the world if people are not fed : GMO or no GMO!!
Healthcare will be immensely important, but more important is to understand which aspects of healthcare will be important. One area that will definitely be needed and will pay off is medical data management services for large patient databases. The population of the world is increasing and people are living longer and they will need more healthcare services in old age. Another aspect of healthcare that will matter a lot is non-invasive home monitoring systems for common ailments. With demographic changes and shifts, health economics will be a hot field for the next 20 years.
Connectivity will not be the next hot thing after 15 years. Connectivity will be a given at that time. Be it home, work, mobile or on-demand connectivity during vacations. On a lighter note perhaps creating vacations that allow complete isolation will be essential for maintaining human balance in life!
Rachna Dayal : Investment 