New Technologies

The U.S. fell two places to fifth on the World Economic Forum’s annual index of networked readiness. The index tallies the general business environment, regulation and investment and how ready individuals, business and governments are to use technology. Sweden topped the list for the first time, followed by Singapore, Denmark and Switzerland. The ability of Sweden, Singapore and Denmark to leverage information and communications technology to spur economic growth is built on similar premises, said Irene Mia, senior economist of WEF’s Global Competitiveness Network and co-editor of the report. China rose to 37th position, up nine places since last year. India rose to 43rd, up 11. Russia dropped six to 80th.