The finals will be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico, with 48 nations playing in 16 cities. A report citing JPMorgan estimates around $14bn in event-related spending and a potential $17.2bn boost to US GDP.
That forecast rests on a larger visitor base and a longer tournament schedule. More than 6.5 million fans are expected to attend matches, creating demand for hotels, restaurants, airports, car rentals, ride-share services and food delivery.
JPMorgan reportedly sees the strongest opportunities in businesses directly exposed to that travel surge. Accommodation and food could account for $2.4bn in spending, while US hotel room revenue is estimated to rise by $910m.
Advertising is another central part of the investment case. The report puts incremental global World Cup advertising at roughly $5bn, with digital platforms expected to capture 73% of that total.
That helps explain the focus on companies linked to online travel, digital advertising, beverages, ticketing and entertainment. The wider argument is that major sporting events can lift consumer sentiment and concentrate spending in host markets, although the report also flags economic uncertainty and softer household demand as risks.
Away from the markets, a separate tournament-winning model reportedly ranks Spain as the leading contender, ahead of France and Argentina. That football forecast adds a sporting layer to an event already attracting unusually strong commercial attention.
The key storyline will develop as qualification concludes and the tournament approaches. For investors, the next test is whether muted economic sentiment gives way to stronger travel and advertising demand. For supporters, the focus will shift to whether Spain, France or Argentina can turn pre-tournament projections into results on the pitch.