The Rise of ’Blue Gold’: Water Emerges as a 21st Century Commodity
Water scarcity has transformed the essential resource into a traded commodity, now known as 'Blue Gold.' Since 2020, water futures have been listed on the Chicago Stock Exchange, signaling a shift in global financial markets. Billionaires and institutional investors are increasingly eyeing water as a strategic asset, driven by climate change, population growth, and industrial demand.
Investment opportunities range from infrastructure funds to technology-driven purification solutions. Yet ethical concerns persist—should a basic human right be financialized? Regulatory scrutiny and sustainability risks loom over unchecked speculation. The sector's growth hinges on balancing profit motives with equitable access.