Investment index*Leaders are committing to strategies that position their organisations for long-term growth, not short-term survival. Future-facing priorities are progressing amid market uncertainty, with technology coming out on top again when it comes to investment targets. Priority investments in AI implementation alongside customer acquisition (both 76% globally and 88% in Australia) reflect the critical role C-suite executives expect AI to play in achieving their growth ambitions and its ability to cut through their competition. |
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Other technologies are helping them along, as investments in IT systems and digitisation (72%) are paramount to the infrastructure needed to ensure maximum return on their AI investments. Notably, financial investment is being matched by human capital commitments, underscoring the importance C-suite executives now place on technology and talent advancing together.
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.
“Leaders can build more flexibility into their strategies and invest more in what seems like uncontrollable factors to ultimately reshape the future of enterprise.”
Sylvie Matherat Senior Global Advisor
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.
Confidence is back and technology is leading the charge. After last year’s seven-point dip, our Confidence Index has rebounded by six points, signalling renewed optimism among business leaders despite the relentless change and conflict from geopolitical turbulence and the economic landscape.
Economic trends and increased competition are among the trends expected to have the biggest impact on businesses, but artificial intelligence comes out on top.
Our Chief Economist George Lagarias shares his views on the market outlook for 2026. In our latest C-suite barometer, he explains the current geopolitical climate and other macroeconomic challenges for businesses as they navigate extreme uncertainty and volatility across markets.
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