C-suite insights
countries worldwide
Growth outlook remains optimisticThis year’s C-suite barometer signals a positive growth outlook. Despite a slight dip in revenue growth in 2025, 92% of C-suites globally and 98% in Australia remain optimistic about their company’s growth outlook. It is the backdrop against which strategic decisions are made, shaped by economic shifts and influenced by rapid advancements in technology. Yet the results that have emerged in this year’s C-suite barometer reveal little hesitation from leaders. They are revising their approach and accelerating plans with significant investments. This adaptability will not only be a competitive edge but the currency for thriving strategies and growth as we head confidently into 2026. |
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New risks and opportunities are influencing a shift in plans and priorities for the world’s executives. While global uncertainty and disruption have led to a dip in overall revenue growth, opportunities are abundant among the challenges and leaders remain optimistic as they prepare for what’s next.
Explore moreSuccess rests on adaptability“Adaptability is not about waiting for uncertainty to pass but about building organisations that are ready for what’s next and can thrive in the long-term. Our research suggests leaders are embracing change, investing in technology and people, and reimagining their strategies to stay ahead of disruption and competition. The most successful will be those who combine confidence with caution – moving forward boldly, with strong awareness of both the risks and opportunities. Success rests on adaptability as much as ambition.”
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Technology transformation remains the ultimate priority for C-suite executives, but it’s only part of the strategy.
As businesses strive for growth, they must pair innovation with adjustable plans to pursue international expansion, tackle intensifying competition overcome mounting tariff pressures and manage costs.
Transformation through technology remains the dominant priority of C-suite executives. |
Adapting to competition & tariffs appears for the first time at the top of C-suite agendas. |
International expansion remains a top three priority for the third year. |
Transformation through technology was also the top strategic priority for leaders in Australia, with data security and revenue growth shaping transformation plans alongside artificial intelligence.
C-suite executives in Australia have a positive growth outlook for the year ahead, despite ongoing economic uncertainty and political instability.
Leaders here are feeling the impact of global trade and increased tariffs, but are confident in their ability to mitigate them. They are tackling them in various ways:
As we see elsewhere, the major opportunity in front of Australia firms is the AI revolution. Uptake is high across a broad range of business functions, most notably creative outputs and cybersecurity. Leaders’ key rationale for investment is streamlining their operations.
Each year, our C-suite barometer surveys over 3,000 senior executives from across the globe, offering a comprehensive snapshot of the business landscape. This edition spotlights the insights and perspectives of Australia’s leading business figures, revealing how they are responding to ongoing economic and political uncertainty with optimism and strategic action.
“Australia’s results showcase the resilience and confidence of our leaders on the global stage. Despite ongoing economic uncertainty and shifting geopolitical landscapes, they are not idly waiting for stability; they are proactively navigating towards the future. Across Australia, we see targeted investment in transformative technology, the adoption of artificial intelligence, and a strong drive for international expansion, all with a clear-eyed awareness of both opportunities and risks. Real progress is achieved by those who can adapt and innovate while remaining anchored in a strategic vision. The most effective leaders will strike a balance between optimism and pragmatism, ensuring their strategies remain robust despite the geopolitical environment that continues to shift with heightened volatility in global markets caused by international tensions and changing trade relationships.”
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Adapting in uncertainty
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