Photo credit: TIME photo illustration

In a world where many companies have returned to the grind of maximizing profits post-pandemic, there are still a few standouts that have kept their focus on what truly matters—happy employees, sustainable growth, and positive societal impacts. That’s what earned companies like Apple, Microsoft, and BMW top spots on TIME and Statista's list of the World's Best Companies of 2024.

This global ranking of 1,000 companies looks beyond profits, combining employee satisfaction surveys, revenue growth, and a company’s commitment to environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG). The result? A list of businesses that are not only making money but also making a difference.

Take Microsoft, for example. Ranking third overall, it stood out as the second highest-rated company for employee satisfaction, right after Alphabet (Google’s parent company). The company is all about empowering its workers to feel energized and impactful—a strategy that's paying off. With revenue climbing to $88 billion, Microsoft proves that happy employees can drive serious growth.

Apple took the top spot, boosted by its commitment to sustainability. The tech giant earned first place in the ESG category, thanks to its efforts to become carbon neutral by 2030 and its push for gender equality—its board now includes an equal number of men and women. On top of that, Apple ranked fourth in employee satisfaction, proving that a strong focus on social responsibility can still mean big wins for both people and the planet.

But it wasn’t just tech companies shining on the list. BMW Group, a German automotive powerhouse, came in fourth, demonstrating that even carmakers can make an impact beyond their products. And let’s not forget Accenture, the consulting giant from Dublin, which secured second place by excelling in all three categories—employee happiness, revenue, and ESG. Its CEO, Julie Sweet, even made TIME's 100 Most Influential People list, thanks to her leadership in using technology to tackle big societal challenges.

As for the Philippines, several homegrown companies made it onto the prestigious list. Ayala Corporation led the way, ranking 274th, followed by names like Security Bank, San Miguel Corporation, SM Investments, and Jollibee Foods. These companies, along with others such as PLDT and Puregold, are proof that Filipino businesses are making their mark on the global stage.

At the end of the day, what sets these companies apart isn’t just their ability to turn a profit. It’s their dedication to keeping employees happy, growing sustainably, and making a positive difference in the world. And that’s what truly makes them the World's Best Companies of 2024.