economy

January 14, 2026

Tariffs and AI's downside pose top global risks for business, World Economic Forum says

The report captures a shifting landscape where geoeconomic confrontation leaps to the top spot on the list of business worries over the next two years

Tariffs and AI's downside pose top global risks for business, World Economic Forum says

TL;DR

  • Global power rivalries and strategic standoffs are identified as the most severe near-term risks heading into 2026.
  • Half of surveyed leaders expect turbulent times over the next two years, with only 1% anticipating calm.
  • Geoeconomic confrontation has become the top business worry due to increasing competition and the weaponization of economic tools, risking a contraction in global trade.
  • Concerns about economic downturns, inflation, and potential asset bubbles are rising.
  • Misinformation and disinformation rank second, followed by societal polarization.
  • Inequality is the topmost interconnected risk over the next 10 years.
  • The potential adverse outcomes of artificial intelligence have surged to fifth place among long-term risks.
  • Extreme weather remains the top concern for the next decade, despite environmental risks being deprioritized in the short term.
  • The report concludes that coalitions of the willing and collaborations are crucial for addressing global challenges, but a retreat from multilateralism raises concerns.
  • Global insured losses from natural catastrophes are estimated to reach $107 billion in 2025.

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