A year in review: 2024’s biggest moments & 2025’s top predictions

Biggest Tech & Business Highlights of 2024

1. AI’s rapid evolution: The year of AGI?

Artificial intelligence reached new heights in 2024, with OpenAI, Google DeepMind, and Anthropic pushing the boundaries of AI-driven automation. The biggest moment? The growing debate over Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). While we may not have reached true AGI, AI systems in 2024 became smarter, more autonomous, and capable of performing complex human-like reasoning.

Key AI Milestones in 2024:

• AI-powered employees: Some companies experimented with AI-driven “workers” for coding, marketing, and even customer service roles.
• AI-generated video revolution: Tools like OpenAI’s Sora and Google’s Lumiere took text-to-video capabilities to a cinematic level.
• More regulations: Governments worldwide started introducing stricter AI governance laws to prevent misinformation and unethical use.

2. The biggest corporate takeover of 2024

In 2024, the most significant acquisition in the supply chain sector was DSV's agreement to purchase DB Schenker, the logistics division of Deutsche Bahn, for €14.3 billion (approximately $15.76 billion). This strategic move is set to position DSV as the world's largest logistics company, enhancing its global footprint and service offerings.

These acquisitions underscore the dynamic nature of the supply chain industry, highlighting companies' efforts to expand capabilities and market reach through strategic mergers and acquisitions.

Why It Mattered:

• Market Domination: DSV’s acquisition of DB Schenker solidified its position as one of the largest logistics companies in the world, surpassing some of its biggest competitors like DHL and Kuehne+Nagel in terms of global reach and service capabilities. This move concentrated market power within fewer players, potentially increasing pricing control in certain regions and services.
• Stock Market Impact:
  • DSV’s stock saw an initial boost following the announcement, as investors viewed the acquisition as a strong strategic move to expand its logistics network and economies of scale.
  • Deutsche Bahn (DB), which owned DB Schenker, likely benefited from a financial standpoint, as the sale helped it reduce its debt burden.
  • The broader logistics sector also experienced increased speculation on further consolidation, leading to stock fluctuations for rival companies like Kuehne+Nagel and DHL.
• Job Market Effects:
  • Workforce restructuring was expected as DSV integrated DB Schenker’s operations, which likely led to job redundancies in overlapping roles
  • However, the expansion also created new opportunities in key logistics hubs, particularly in digital logistics, warehousing, and last-mile delivery services.
  • Competitor reactions: Rival logistics firms might have also adjusted their hiring strategies to remain competitive in a more consolidated industry.

3. Space Tech Boom: Private Companies Lead the Charge

2024 saw an incredible acceleration in space technology, with private companies continuing to push boundaries. SpaceX, Blue Origin, and China’s space program achieved significant milestones, including new lunar missions and advancements in reusable rocket technology.

Key Highlights:

• First civilian moon mission completed by (insert company name).
• New breakthroughs in space tourism, making it (slightly) more affordable.
• NASA’s Artemis program took another step toward Mars exploration.

4. Electric Vehicles & Sustainability: A Green Revolution

Electric vehicles (EVs) continued their takeover in 2024, with Tesla, Rivian, and Chinese automakers like BYDintroducing longer-range, lower-cost EVs. Governments worldwide also enforced stricter carbon regulations, accelerating the push toward clean energy.

Key EV Trends in 2024:

• Cheaper EV models flooded the market, making electric cars more accessible.
• Fast-charging technology improved, cutting charge times in half.
• Several automakers announced plans to go fully electric by 2030.

What to Expect in 2025: Predictions & Trends

While 2024 set the stage, 2025 is expected to be even more transformative. Here are some of the biggest trends and breakthroughs we might see in the coming year.

1. AI Will Become Even More Integrated into Daily Life

Expect AI to become even smarter, with personal AI assistants handling everything from work emails to personal scheduling. In 2025, we could see:

• AI-powered tutors replacing traditional online learning.
• More AI-driven automation in workplaces, potentially replacing entry-level jobs.
• Further advancements in AI-generated content, making Hollywood rethink filmmaking.

2. The Next Big Business Merger?

2025 is likely to see another massive corporate acquisition. Tech giants, particularly in AI and cloud computing, may engage in billion-dollar buyouts to consolidate their market dominance.

Possible Mergers & Acquisitions to Watch:

• A major AI startup being acquired by a tech giant.
• A huge media merger changing the entertainment landscape.
• The rise of new competitors challenging industry leaders.

3. Space Tech: Are We Finally Going to Mars?

With NASA and private companies ramping up their efforts, 2025 might be the year we see:

More moon missions as a stepping stone to Mars.

• The launch of the first space hotels for tourists.
• Breakthroughs in asteroid mining for rare minerals.

4. The Rise of Quantum Computing

Quantum computing has been a buzzword for years, but in 2025, we might finally see real-world applications beyond research labs. Tech giants like Google, IBM, and emerging quantum startups are racing to achieve practical breakthroughs.

What This Means for 2025:

• Faster drug discoveries using quantum simulations.
• Revolutionary cybersecurity improvements.
• More industries adopting quantum computing for logistics and finance.

Final Thoughts: A Year of Transformation Ahead

2024 was a year of rapid change, with AI, space exploration, and corporate power plays dominating headlines. Looking ahead, 2025 promises even bigger disruptions. As AI becomes more integrated, space tech advances, and businesses continue to consolidate power, one thing is certain—innovation isn’t slowing down.

What do you think will be the biggest trend in 2025? Drop your predictions on my LinkedIN page.