How global business districts are rebounding as global economic hubs

Four trends shaping the future of GBDs

Each of the trends³ reflect deep demographic, technological and environmental shifts that are transforming how cities — and their economic cores — function, evolve and create value and experience. A clear understanding of these dynamics can help investors, developers, occupiers and GBD managers shape strategies that navigate the delicate trade-offs they face, supporting global business districts in being more vibrant, sustainable and innovative.

Trend 1 – Talent first

More than three in four (76%) of executives rank talent attractiveness as their top priority when choosing a business district. These districts must act as partners for companies, helping them attract and retain employees. In addition to continued investment in transport, technology and safety, housing has become a critical concern, cited by 46% of respondents as a priority issue.

Concerns are shifting beyond office buildings toward the urban experience: vitality and quality of services are now prerequisites. Only business districts offering true diversity of uses — green spaces, retail, culture and leisure will continue to appeal to companies, employees and investors. Without renewal, global business districts risk being overtaken, even locally, by smaller, more agile and better-integrated urban hubs.

Trend 2 – The soft and hard power of real estate

The question of “fair value” has become central to real estate strategy: 40% of executives now cite it as a priority, up 14 points since 2020. Vertical, iconic architecture; large office floors; and prestigious locations raise a question: how can the cost of height and prestige be justified in an era of cost-cutting and changing needs?

Two paths emerge: urban design and quality. The survey shows that top-quality buildings and districts — those most accessible, modern, comfortable, tech-equipped and energy-efficient — continue to attract tenants. In contrast, those that don’t address these evolving needs or fail to embrace mixed use will struggle to find occupants and maintain their ranking.

Trend 3 – The dual role of technology

Technology is now a cornerstone of GBDs, serving as a major operational lever for planners, developers and managers. It enables faster design, reduces environmental impact and offers a better understanding and control over the millions of activities that flow through these areas every day.

At the same time, businesses expect these districts to be innovation hubs. Almost half (42%) of respondents emphasize the need for stronger collaboration between research institutions, universities and companies within business districts, and 27% believe artificial intelligence initiatives will be crucial to achieving this goal.

Trend 4 – The complexity of sustainability

Sustainability has become central to the global business district agenda. The survey identifies three key levers to accelerate the transition:

• Low-carbon mobility development (54%)
• Energy renovation of existing buildings (49%)
• Deployment of green spaces (46%)

Looking ahead, success will depend on the ability of business districts to fully integrate climate considerations into their planning, investment and governance. Yet, a significant gap remains between ambition and action: fewer than 10% of executives believe these areas are on track to address climate risks.

Summary

Five years after COVID-19 reshaped how and where people work, GBDs continue to be command centers for global business and investment. Collectively, the top 30 GBDs employ more than seven million people and host 84 Global Fortune 500 companies. Beyond immediate economic and geopolitical tensions, the report highlights trends reshaping the future of GBDs. The next decade will see them evolve into “central social districts,” which will be inclusive, mixed-use spaces that blend work, living, culture and climate resilience.