Key investment areas for C-suite in 2026

InsightsC-suite barometerC-suite barometer: outlook 2026

Key investment areas for C-suite in 2026

C-suite agendas highlight AI implementation, new customer acquisition, and overall business strategies as the main areas of investment. The data reflect a positive yet complex environment: Italian companies show confidence and determination while navigating increasingly significant economic, political, and technological challenges.

Global C-suite investment priorities

Globally, investment priorities show an even stronger focus on transformation and growth. Artificial intelligence and new customer acquisition top the list, each cited by 76% of C-suite leaders. This is followed by IT system upgrades and digitalization programs at 72%. In third place, tied at 71%, are talent acquisition, internal upskilling, and operational efficiency improvements, reflecting an integrated approach that combines technology, human capital, and performance.

C-suite investment priorities in Italy

In Italy, C-suite leaders show a strong focus on innovation and growth. Artificial intelligence leads the list, with 77% of investments concentrated in this area, followed by new customer acquisition (69%) and IT system enhancement and digitalization (68%). Particular attention is also given to business strategy and external growth, with 69% of executives actively working to consolidate and develop their organizations’ competitive positioning.

Luca Savoia

Data from the C-Suite Barometer confirm that Italian companies are accelerating their AI initiatives with an increasingly structured and deliberate approach. Focus on data security and technology governance is no longer a peripheral concern, but an essential condition for sustainable innovation. This is an important signal: technological innovation truly becomes a growth accelerator only when supported by robust governance, cybersecurity, and control strategies.

Luca Savoia IT Risk Advisory Partner

In a context of rapid technological transformation, the true differentiator remains an organization’s ability to attract, develop, and retain talent. Results from the Barometer show that Italian companies are increasingly recognizing that AI adoption must go hand in hand with targeted investments in people and skills. Only by putting talent at the center can organizations support innovation, manage change, and build sustainable, long-term growth.

Rossana Romano Chief Talent Officer

C-suite strategic priorities in 2026

Technological transformation leads the top three priorities on C-suite agendas, while the need to adapt business models and competitive strategies in response to an increasingly complex environment remains critical. International expansion continues to be a key lever for supporting growth and strengthening positioning in global markets.

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Key trends shaping businesses

Economic trends, intensifying competition, and geopolitical instability are among the factors expected to have the greatest impact on businesses, but artificial intelligence emerges as the most significant trend.

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