Jasmine Birtles
Your money-making expert. Financial journalist, TV and radio personality.
Reading Time: 4 minutes
The original dot-com boom of the late 1990s transformed the global economy, and launched entire industries out of bedrooms and garages. While it ended in a spectacular crash for many, it also laid the groundwork for the modern digital world we live in today.
Now, as we move through the 2020s, there are signs we’re entering a new era of explosive digital growth. Think of it as the next .com boom, but with more intelligence, better infrastructure, and far more global reach. And just like before, those who see it coming and position themselves early stand to benefit most.
So where is this next boom coming from, and what should you be doing about it?
What’s Driving the Next .Com Boom?
The next digital gold rush won’t be driven by basic websites and email services. Instead, it’s being fuelled by an interconnected wave of new technologies that are reaching maturity all at once. Here are the key players:
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI isn’t just ChatGPT or smart assistants. It’s revolutionising industries from healthcare to finance to logistics. AI tools can now write code, design products, analyse data, and even create marketing campaigns — and businesses are racing to adopt them.
2. Web3 and Decentralised Technologies
Blockchain isn’t just about cryptocurrency anymore. Web3 is ushering in new ways to manage identity, ownership, and trust on the internet. We’re already seeing experiments with decentralised social media, gaming economies, and DAOs (Decentralised Autonomous Organisations).
3. Spatial Computing (AR/VR and the Metaverse)
With Apple’s Vision Pro and Meta’s ongoing investments, the shift toward spatial computing is starting to feel more real. The next generation of digital experiences may not happen on a flat screen — they’ll happen around us.
4. Green Tech and Climate Innovation
As the world decarbonises, new companies are emerging to tackle energy, waste, agriculture, and transport. This could become the largest industry transformation since the Industrial Revolution — and the job opportunities will follow.
5. The Creator Economy 2.0
Being a creator isn’t just about YouTube anymore. We’re entering a more professionalised era of content creation, digital communities, and micro-entrepreneurship. New platforms are allowing individuals to earn from skills, audiences, and niche knowledge.
Jobs to Get Into Now – Before Everyone Else Does
To get ahead of the curve, think about where demand is growing fastest — and where automation isn’t likely to replace humans anytime soon. Here’s where to look:
1. AI-Related Roles
- Prompt Engineers – Crafting the “questions” that get the best out of AI tools.
- AI Trainers/Data Annotators – Teaching AI systems to be more accurate and ethical.
- AI Product Managers – Overseeing the development and deployment of AI features within businesses.
Pathway Tip: Start learning how to use tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Midjourney. Online courses from platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning are a great entry point.
2. Web3 and Blockchain Jobs
- Smart Contract Developers
- Crypto Compliance Specialists
- Community Managers for DAOs and NFT projects
Pathway Tip: Get familiar with Ethereum, Solana, and other platforms. Follow projects on GitHub or Reddit and join communities like Discord servers for emerging tokens or platforms.
3. Green Tech and Sustainability Roles
- Carbon Analysts
- Circular Economy Designers
- Sustainable Supply Chain Managers
Pathway Tip: Government and private grants are pouring into the green sector. Get certified in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks, or volunteer for sustainability projects to build experience.
4. Digital Creators & Tech-Savvy Entrepreneurs
- Niche Content Creators
- Online Course Creators
- Community-Led Business Builders
Pathway Tip: Use platforms like Substack, Kajabi, or Gumroad to monetise your skills. Don’t underestimate the power of a personal brand, even if you start with 100 followers.
5. Virtual and Augmented Reality Roles
- XR Designers & Developers
- 3D Modellers
- VR Trainers for Education and Healthcare
Pathway Tip: Learn how to use Unity or Unreal Engine. The gaming world is a good entry point — but this will expand into real estate, retail, tourism, and even therapy.
Investing in AI: How to Profit from The Boom
Getting a job in a field that will flourish in the next boom is not the only way to profit! According to our investment editor, Ruby Layram, risk-tolerant investors can also put their money to work by investing in sectors that will drive the future of the web!
In particular, AI ETFs are a great way to invest in artificial intelligence and build a well-diversified portfolio that is poised for growth. You could also look into growth ETFs, quantum computing stocks or even artificial intelligence stocks (if you fancy a bit of stock picking!).
If you have time to let your money grow and don’t mind a bit of risk, investing in these sectors could be a great way to lock in future wealth!
Your money is at risk.
Final Thought: Don’t Wait to Be “Qualified”
Jasmine Birtles, founder of MoneyMagpie.com, says there are always opportunities both for jobs and for investing: “it’s human nature to feel like it’s just too late,” she says, “but it never is. Certainly when it comes to business opportunities or ways to invest for profit there are new ideas coming along all the time. Just keep an open mind and stay interested in what is going on around you and you will spot the new money-makers as they come along!”
The beauty of this new boom is that the barriers to entry are lower than ever. Many of these roles don’t require traditional degrees. What matters most is curiosity, adaptability, and willingness to learn new tools.
If you missed the first dot-com wave, this is your second chance.
Whether you’re looking for a side hustle, planning a career change, or helping your kids pick their path — now’s the time to look ahead.
The future is hiring.
Want to get started with a side hustle or a digital upskill? Check out MoneyMagpie’s guides to making money online, freelancing, and investing in yourself
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