economy

We spoke to over 30 CEOs and business leaders. Here's what worries them most

Business leaders across the world are confronting a new operating reality: one where war, inflation and artificial intelligence are part of the baseline.

We spoke to over 30 CEOs and business leaders. Here's what worries them most

TL;DR

  • Uncertainty is now a structural aspect of business, not an exceptional event.
  • Companies are moving from 'just in time' to 'just in case' strategies, involving duplicated supply chains and rerouted logistics.
  • Disruptions in global trade and shipping are leading to higher costs and inflationary pressures.
  • Consumer behavior is changing, with a willingness to sacrifice assortment and speed for lower prices.
  • Artificial intelligence presents both opportunities for growth and cost savings, alongside significant risks like cybersecurity threats and model disruption.
  • Cybersecurity is a paramount concern, with AI accelerating attack speeds and scales.
  • Energy resilience is a focus, accelerating investment in renewables while acknowledging the continued importance of diversification.
  • The world is not returning to pre-crisis norms; companies must adapt to volatility, fragmentation, and rapid technological change.