The quarter’s top themes

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McKinsey Top Ten

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Top Ten McKinsey Themes │Third Quarter 2025

In the third quarter of 2025, our top ten posts from McKinsey Themes highlight book recommendations, technology, CEO interviews, and more. At No. 1 is 8 McKinsey insights on how AI is reshaping business, which features must-read insights from McKinsey’s Hemant Ahlawat, Lareina Yee, and Alexis Krivkovich. Read on for our full top 10.

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1. 8 McKinsey insights on how AI is reshaping business

This year’s McKinsey Technology Trends Outlook highlights 13 frontier technologies that matter most for companies in 2025. Master the art of fast adoption

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2. 9 standout books on AI and tech

AI is reshaping industries far beyond tech. In McKinsey’s latest state of AI survey, 78 percent of respondents said their organizations use the technology in at least one business function—up from 55 percent in 2023. Understand the broader landscape

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3. 11 business books to read this year

Reading is more than a pastime. It’s also a good way to make sense of change, challenge the status quo, and evolve with purpose. Every year, McKinsey curates a list of must-read books recommended by editors in chief, executives, founders, and McKinsey leaders to help inspire fresh ideas and spark growth across industries. Think bigger and build faster

4. 6 can’t-miss CEO interviews

What does it take to lead through disruption—and come out ahead? Explore some of McKinsey’s recent in-depth conversations with global business leaders to learn how they’re navigating pivotal moments, making bold decisions, and reshaping their organizations and industries for what’s next. Hear how they come out ahead

5. ‘Shelf’ discovery: Books on personal development

You don’t need to wait for a new year, or a major life change, to start rewriting your story. Whether you’re navigating personal or professional crossroads, seeking contentment, or looking to make a difference in the world, these personal development books can help you take your next step. Rewrite your story

6. What are McKinsey leaders reading?

Each year, we invite a diverse group of leaders to share the books that have resonated with them—or ones they can’t wait to read. This year’s curated list features over 90 titles, including nine recommendations from McKinsey leaders like Global Managing Partner Bob Sternfels. See the 9 recommendations

7. What to read next: The top 12 most popular books

Every year, McKinsey Global Publishing curates a list of books recommended by contributors from across sectors—social, business, tech, academia, and more. Check out the 12 books that received the most “want to read” clicks and see other titles to consider for your bookshelf. Consider these for your bookshelf

8. Winning in India: 5 approaches to business success

With its deep talent pool, large consumer market, and improving infrastructure, India is rapidly emerging as a global business hub. Take a long-term view

9. Celebrating a century of quantum breakthroughs

2025 marks the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology and the 100th anniversary of the initial development of quantum mechanics. Discover 4 high-impact domains

10. 10 books recommended by media and press

From the frontlines of storytelling, journalism, and analysis, media and press leaders have their finger on the cultural and business conversations shaping our world. Read for yourself

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