Denmark’s Saxo Bank has gained a reputation for making “outrageous predictions” that occasionally come true. The bank boasts successful predictions in the past, such as Germany entering a recession in 2019 and the delayed plan to end fossil fuels in 2022.
But what sets these predictions apart is their grounding in reality. Saxo Bank deliberately aims to expand the imaginations of market participants and prepare them for various possibilities.
The Consequences of GLP-1 Obesity Drugs
One prediction that particularly stands out is the potential impact of GLP-1 obesity drugs on people’s exercise habits. Currently administered via injections, companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly are working to develop pill-form alternatives.
The bank suggests that as supply expands, prices decrease, and governments recognize the significance of these drugs in combating obesity, a major health crisis could emerge. With the demand outstripping supply, patients may be forced to wait years for their injections. Consequently, individuals may become complacent about exercise and maintaining a healthy diet since they believe a simple pill can keep their weight in check.
Generative AI and National Security
Saxo Bank’s second prediction revolves around the potential national security crisis triggered by generative AI. In this scenario, a criminal group sets the stage for deception by employing an advanced generative AI deepfake. Their target? A high-ranking government official who unwittingly hands over top-secret state information.
The audacious nature and subsequent success of this act result in the most significant national security crisis since World War II. As a consequence, new and comprehensive regulations surrounding AI are ushered in. Both the United States and the European Union mandate that all content produced by generative AI must be clearly labeled as “Made by AI.”
Interestingly, this prediction overlooks the existing challenges faced by regulating social media, let alone artificial intelligence, in the United States.
Saxo Bank’s “outrageous predictions” serve as catalysts for thought, pushing the boundaries of what we believe is possible and challenging us to consider the consequences of emerging trends.
The Future of Politics and Finance
A Potential Surprise in the 2024 Election
Unconventional Odds for US Presidential Contenders
Contrary to popular belief, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are not the only frontrunners for the upcoming election. Surprisingly, UK betting shops actually assign better odds to Nikki Haley and Gavin Newsom becoming the next president than they do to RFK Jr., whose chances are roughly on par with Michelle Obama, with variations depending on the source.
Potential Shifts in Global Bond Markets
Saxo Bank’s Outrageous Predictions for 2024
Here are some other intriguing predictions listed by Saxo Bank for the year 2024:
- With oil reaching $150 per barrel, Saudi Arabia purchases a Champions League franchise.
- The world is struck by a major health crisis caused by obesity drugs that paradoxically diminish people’s motivation to exercise.
- The United States signifies the end of capitalism by introducing tax-free government bonds.
- The emergence of generative AI deepfake technology leads to a national security crisis.
- Countries burdened by deficits unite to form the “Rome Club,” aiming to negotiate trade terms.
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emerges as the winner of the 2024 US presidential election.
- Japan’s impressive 7% GDP growth rate forces the Bank of Japan to abandon its yield curve control policy.
- The EU takes on a Robin Hood-esque approach by implementing a wealth tax, causing a decline in luxury markets.
These predictions offer unique insights into potential future developments, challenging conventional expectations in both politics and finance.