J.P. Morgan’s 2026 NextList: The Summer Reading Guide for the World’s Wealthiest
Every year, J.P. Morgan’s NextList becomes a cultural touchstone for the world’s elite—a curated collection of books, experiences, and innovative ideas designed to inspire leaders, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals. The 2026 edition, unveiled this month, reflects the evolving priorities of J.P. Morgan’s global client base, from artificial intelligence and longevity to legacy planning and creative disruption.
Compiled by client advisors worldwide, the list serves as both a beach-read staple and a strategic tool for families navigating wealth transition, corporate executives exploring AI’s transformative potential, and investors seeking to stay ahead of market shifts. This year’s selections underscore a theme of purpose-driven disruption, blending cutting-edge technology with timeless human stories.
Five Dominant Themes in the 2026 NextList
1. AI and the Future of Intelligence
The list opens with two standout titles on artificial intelligence, reflecting the urgent interest among J.P. Morgan’s clients in both the opportunities and ethical challenges of AI. The Infinity Machine by Sebastian Mallaby explores DeepMind’s quest for superintelligence, while AI for Good by Josh Tyrangiel highlights real-world applications solving global challenges.
“AI isn’t just a tool—it’s reshaping industries, economies, and even our understanding of human potential. The question isn’t if leaders should engage with it, but how.”
2. Leadership and Generational Transition
Family offices and next-gen wealth managers dominate discussions around succession planning. Mattering by Jennifer Breheny Wallace tops the list for its focus on purpose-driven leadership, resonating with heirs navigating identity and legacy. Meanwhile, Coachable by Ric Bucher distills lessons from elite athletes like Michael Jordan and Tom Brady—framed as a playbook for high performers in business.
3. Longevity and Cognitive Resilience
With life expectancy extending and cognitive decline a growing concern, the list includes The Stimulated Mind by Dr. Tommy Wood, a neuroscientist’s guide to maintaining mental sharpness. The book aligns with J.P. Morgan’s growing focus on healthspan optimization for affluent clients.
4. Creative Disruption and Cultural Legacy
From Keith Haring in 3D (a deep dive into the artist’s digital legacy) to Light and Thread by Han Kang (exploring Korean textile art), the list celebrates how creativity intersects with technology. Squeeze Me, a collaboration between chef Ruthie Rogers and artist Ed Ruscha, even blends culinary innovation with visual art—a nod to the bank’s longstanding arts patronage.
5. Global Crises and Historical Lessons
Two titles ground the list in historical perspective: The Coming Storm by Odd Arne Westad examines power struggles through history, while Crisis Engineering offers tools for navigating chaos—a practical guide for investors and executives alike.
The Complete 2026 NextList
Below is the full selection of books and experiences featured in J.P. Morgan’s 2026 NextList:
- How Great Ideas Happen – George Newman (Cognitive science meets innovation)
- The Infinity Machine – Sebastian Mallaby (DeepMind and the AI race)
- AI for Good – Josh Tyrangiel (Practical AI solutions)
- America: The Imagination of a Nation – Assouline & Joel Stein (Cultural storytelling)
- Crisis Engineering – Marina Nitze, Matthew Weaver, Mikey Dickerson (Navigating uncertainty)
- The Coming Storm – Odd Arne Westad (Geopolitical history)
- Mattering – Jennifer Breheny Wallace (Purpose for next-gen leaders)
- Coachable – Ric Bucher (Lessons from elite athletes)
- The Stimulated Mind – Dr. Tommy Wood (Brain health strategies)
- Light and Thread – Han Kang (Korean textile art)
- Irreplaceable – World Monuments Fund (Cultural heritage preservation)
- Keith Haring in 3D – Larry Warsh & Glenn Adamson (Digital art legacy)
- Squeeze Me – Ruthie Rogers & Ed Ruscha (Culinary art)
- We Are the World (Cup) – Roger Bennett (Football’s global impact)
*Note: The list also includes exclusive experiences, such as private screenings of teamLab Phenomena in Abu Dhabi and immersive installations by artist Leo Villareal, though these are not publicly detailed.
Why This List Matters for Investors and Entrepreneurs
1. AI as a Strategic Imperative
With AI projected to add $13 trillion to global GDP by 2030, J.P. Morgan’s emphasis on titles like The Infinity Machine signals a shift toward strategic adoption over speculative hype. Clients are focusing on:
- Ethical AI governance frameworks
- Investment opportunities in AI infrastructure
- Reskilling workforces for an AI-augmented economy
2. The Wealth Transition Challenge
Family offices—managing $10 trillion in assets—are prioritizing Mattering and Coachable to address:
- Aligning family values with investment strategies
- Developing next-gen leaders in volatile markets
- Balancing philanthropy with financial growth
3. The Intersection of Art and Technology
Titles like Keith Haring in 3D and teamLab experiences reflect a broader trend: high-net-worth individuals increasingly view art as both an asset class and a tool for innovation. J.P. Morgan’s inclusion underscores:
- Digital art as a hedge against inflation
- Cultural preservation as a legacy play
- Collaborations between tech and traditional creativity
FAQ: What’s New in the 2026 NextList?
Q: How is this year’s list different from past editions?
A: Unlike previous years, which leaned heavily on fiction (e.g., 1929 by John Steele Gordon), the 2026 list prioritizes actionable insights—AI, longevity, and leadership—reflecting client demand for strategic rather than purely recreational reading.
Q: Are there any books on climate change or ESG?
A: While not explicitly listed, titles like The Coming Storm (geopolitical risks) and Irreplaceable (cultural heritage) indirectly address sustainability. For direct ESG focus, clients are advised to explore J.P. Morgan’s ESG resources.
Q: Can individuals access the NextList, or is it for clients only?
A: The list is client-exclusive, but J.P. Morgan shares curated insights through public events and partnerships (e.g., teamLab collaborations). Some titles are available for purchase via standard retailers.
Q: How does J.P. Morgan select the books?
A: The list is compiled by Private Bank client advisors globally, who solicit recommendations from high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and institutional investors. Selections are vetted for relevance to current trends, authoritative insight, and cross-disciplinary appeal.
The Bigger Picture: Reading as a Strategic Asset
J.P. Morgan’s NextList has evolved from a mere summer pastime into a competitive advantage. In an era where information overload is the norm, the list curates high-signal, low-noise content—aligning with the bank’s broader mission to empower clients to navigate complexity.
For entrepreneurs and investors, the takeaway is clear: The most successful leaders aren’t just reading—they’re using books as a framework for decision-making. Whether it’s AI’s ethical dilemmas, the art of generational transition, or the fusion of technology and creativity, this year’s list offers a roadmap for those who aim to disrupt rather than follow.
Ready to dive deeper? Explore J.P. Morgan’s NextList 2026 or start with our recommended starter titles below.
Worth a look