Are public listed companies losing their influence on the economy?

Abstract

Listed companies in the Nordics contribute more to employment and GDP now than in 1990. Part of this growth can be attributed to the increase in employment in sectors such as manufacturing, services, wholesale and retail, transportation, & electricity. Although the market capitalization of a company is less reflective of its employment contributions, it remains a consistent indicator of value added. The largest listed firms have become increasingly dominant in value creation, even as their share of employment has remained stable.

Listed companies in the Nordics contribute more to employment and GDP now than in 1990. Part of this growth can be attributed to the increase in employment in sectors such as manufacturing, services, wholesale and retail, transportation, & electricity. Although the market capitalization of a company is less reflective of its employment contributions, it remains a consistent indicator of value added. The largest listed firms have become increasingly dominant in value creation, even as their share of employment has remained stable.