Globalization refers to the increasing integration and interaction between people and corporations around the world through trade, investment and technology. It involves the dismantling of trade barriers and integration of economies. While globalization can generate wealth and improve living standards by increasing trade and innovation, its current form is increasing inequality between rich and poor since policies focus more on business needs. Companies operate internationally to access resources, labor, markets and opportunities for growth. The forces driving globalization include improved transportation and communication technologies as well as liberalized trade policies. Globalization impacts societies both positively through increased prosperity and cultural exchange, and negatively by threatening local economies and cultures.