Data As the New Oil: Unravelling Equitable Value Across Geographies

July 7, 2023

The comparison between data and oil has become a very common analogy, but it is important to recognize the fundamental differences between the two. While oil extraction is limited to specific locations and benefits only a few selected countries, data stands apart. It can be generated and consumed anywhere, by anyone, offering the potential for creating rightful and equitable value across various sectors and geographical boundaries.

In the digital age, data has become a valuable resource that knows no boundaries. Unlike oil, which is geographically constrained, data has a decentralized nature. This democratization of data presents a significant shift, granting opportunities for widespread value creation and equal participation.

The global reach of data brings with it the potential to revolutionize industries and societies on a broad scale. Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani emphasized that India had missed out on the opportunities presented by the first two industrial revolutions and the subsequent transformative changes they brought. However, he expressed confidence that India would actively participate in the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution, which is characterized by the convergence of data and digital technologies. Ambani highlighted that India possesses a significant advantage in this revolution due to its abundant reserves of the “new oil,” referring to data. This advantage stems from India’s large population, which generates substantial data that can be harnessed to drive innovation and progress in the digital era. The accessibility and abundance of data also break down traditional barriers, enabling individuals, businesses, and governments to leverage its power to drive positive change.

As the world continues to witness the rapid expansion of digital technologies, data’s importance will only grow. It is crucial for individuals, organizations, and policymakers to recognize the transformative potential of data and work towards creating frameworks that safeguard privacy rights while promoting responsible data usage. By fostering a culture of data ethics and governance, we can ensure that the benefits of this new “oil” are harnessed in a fair and inclusive manner.

Data’s ability to be generated and consumed anywhere, along with its potential for creating equitable value, offers unprecedented opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and socioeconomic development. By embracing the transformative power of data and nurturing an environment that promotes responsible data practices, we can unlock its immense potential for the benefit of all.