“By embedding resilience and foresight into every decision, leaders can position their organisations to adapt quickly, seize opportunities, and stay ahead, even when risks seem distant.”
Rachel Harper Board Risk Adviser
The global paradox
16 January 2026
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.
Thriving amid uncertainty
A striking majority of C-suite executives (92%) are positive about their company’s growth outlook, while only 82% expect revenue increases – the lowest since the mid-pandemic period in 2021. This signals a shift from unbridled optimism to a more measured, pragmatic confidence and reflects their awareness of the risks and challenges ahead.
Breaking through barriers to growth
Uncertainty dominates as the biggest brake on growth. Economic factors (42%) and rising competition (32%) remain the top barriers for leaders. Political instability has surged to 29%, while energy costs and new regulations now share fourth place at 26%, dropping five points. Talent shortages and supply
chain challenges continue to weigh heavily on growth strategies, cited by a quarter of executives.
National and international political tensions loom close behind, threatening to derail plans and reshape the playing field for organisations planning to expand internationally.
29 Jan 2026
C-suite barometer: outlook 2026
Our latest study uncovers a business world embracing change, investing in technology and people, and reimagining strategies to stay ahead of disruption and competition. Success now rests on adaptability as much as ambition.
29 Jan 2026
The C-suite’s economic survival strategy
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.
29 Jan 2026
Renewed confidence
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.
29 Jan 2026
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.
29 Jan 2026
Investment: the ultimate vote of confidence
C-suite executives are aligning confidence levels with action in their investments. Our Investment Index has climbed to 69%, its highest level since 2022, with more than two-thirds of executives planning to increase investment across core business areas.
29 Jan 2026
Resetting strategic priorities
Technology transformation remains the ultimate priority for C-suite executives, but it’s only part of the strategy. As businesses pursue growth, they must pair innovation with adjustable plans to expand internationally, tackle intensifying competition and overcome mounting tariff pressures.