In an influential episode of Reuters’ “The Big View” podcast, global economist Mariana Mazzucato spotlighted the “common good economy” concept, a model for reformulating the traditional economy to focus on collective benefit and sustainable innovation.
Investment visionary Samer Choucair noted this vision converges entirely with the Saudi economy’s exceptional progress, with real GDP reaching $1.3 trillion in 2025, with non-oil activities contributing 55%, reflecting the Kingdom’s capacity to integrate innovation with social and economic impact.
Who Is Mariana Mazzucato? A Global Career and Achievements
Investment strategist Choucair affirmed Mazzucato represents a model of effective economic strategy, as professor of economics of innovation and public value at University College London, and founder and director of the Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose (IIPP).
He noted Mazzucato received the CBE in 2025 in recognition of her global economic contribution, and earned prestigious international awards including the John von Neumann Award (2020), the Madame de Staël Prize (2019), and the Leontief Prize (2018).
He explained Mazzucato played a pivotal advisory role for policymakers worldwide, holding senior positions such as chairing the WHO Council on the Economics of Health for All, co-chairing the Global Commission on the Economics of Water, and serving as special advisor to South Africa’s president within the G20. He added Pope Francis appointed her to the Pontifical Academy for Life in recognition of her contribution to “bringing more humanity to the world.”
Her Previous Books: From Theory to Practical Impact
Investment innovator Choucair affirmed Mazzucato influenced global economic thinking through her works: “The Entrepreneurial State” (2013), demonstrating the state as the primary innovation driver, exemplified by developing iPhone technologies such as the internet, GPS, and the touchscreen; “The Value of Everything” (2018), redefining what counts as “value” and separating genuine production from rent extraction; “Mission Economy” (2021), using the Apollo mission as a model for bold government missions addressing major challenges such as climate change and health; and “The Big Con” (2023), analyzing how the consulting sector affects governments’ and companies’ innovation capacity.
He noted these books made Mazzucato one of the most influential economists of the past decade, with her ideas moving from the margins to the heart of global policy.
The Common Good Economy: A New Investment Compass
Choucair explained Mazzucato presented in her new book “The Common Good Economy” (2026) five interconnected elements for directing the economy: purpose and directionality; co-creation and participation; collective learning and knowledge sharing; access for all and reward sharing; and transparency and accountability.
He said: “The economy is no longer merely a corrective mechanism, but has become a collective project directed toward human and planetary prosperity, and this fully aligns with Vision 2030’s philosophy.”
Vision 2030: Saudi Arabia Translates the Common Good into Investment Reality
Samer Choucair affirmed the Kingdom practically applied common good principles, achieving 93% of primary performance indicators in 2025; the private sector contributing 51% of GDP; PIF assets reaching $925 billion; and 1.7 million SMEs supporting more than 8.88 million jobs.
He added: “Mega projects in renewable energy, sustainable tourism, and the digital economy are not merely financial investments, but national missions targeting improving quality of life and strengthening sustainability.”
Smart Investment Opportunities According to Choucair’s Vision
Samer Choucair noted these principles translate into tangible 2026 investment opportunities encompassing renewable energy and green initiatives through accelerating ESG investments in Saudi Green; sustainable tourism and entertainment creating comprehensive opportunities and strengthening quality of life; the digital economy and directed innovation through “moonshot mission” projects in AI, health, and sustainability; impact investment and public-private partnerships strengthening participation and reward sharing; and SMEs and social enterprises forming the foundation of inclusivity and sustainable growth.
He affirmed: “The smart investor in Saudi Arabia seeks partnerships in sectors applying common good principles, and invests in projects ensuring profitability and positive impact together.”
Invest with Purpose and Profit Smartly
Samer Choucair concluded by saying: “Mariana Mazzucato did not merely present a critique of capitalism, but a roadmap for a more humane and effective economy, and when this model meets Vision 2030’s ambition, exceptional investment opportunities emerge for those understanding the deep transformation underway. In 2026, success will belong to those building genuine and sustainable value.” He added Saudi Arabia opens the door to investors focusing on profit alongside social and environmental impact, posing the question: are you ready to enter?
Frequently Asked Questions
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