Forbes.com has selected the twenty best countries for business in the world. Ironically, it is not the very conservative, short on social programs that dominate the list. The leaders in 'best for business' all have powerful social nets for their poorest. Here is the list.

1. New Zealand

2. Denmark

3. Hong Kong

4. Singapore

5. Canada

6. Ireland

7. Sweden

8. Norway

9. Finland

10. United Kingdom

11. Australia

12. United States

13. Belgium

14. Netherlands

15. Switzerland

16. Taiwan

17. Chile

18. Luxembourg

19.. Iceland

20. France