Biggest trends influencing businesses

Economic trends and increased competition are among the trends expected to have the biggest impact on businesses, but artificial intelligence comes out on top.

Top five external trends expected to have the biggest impact on businesses in the next 12 months


AI is no longer a distant disruptor. It’s the boardroom’s top priority, with 40% of C-suite executives now expecting AI to have the greatest impact on their business over the next year. This specific technology has earned its own category for the first time in our study, split out from the emergence of other new technologies, signalling this decisive shift we’re seeing in corporate thinking.

Yet the enthusiasm is not unqualified. Economic headwinds from inflation to cost-of-living pressures remain front of mind, alongside intensifying competition and the rise of other emerging technologies. The picture is clear – AI may dominate the conversation, but it sits within a broader transformation agenda that is revolutionising business models and the people critical to achieving success.

Rick Chan

“Amidst market change and crisis, there is always opportunity. Businesses have no choice now but to adapt to an ever-changing environment.”

Rick Chan Country Leader in Singapore and Group Governing Board Member