Key trends shaping businesses

InsightsC-suite barometerC-suite barometer: outlook 2026

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.

Key trends shaping the global C-suite

Artificial intelligence ranks first among external trends expected to 
have the greatest impact on C-suite agendas in 2026. It is followed by 
economic trends, including inflation and rising cost of living, and 
in third place, intensifying competition. Rounding out the picture 
is the emergence of new technologies, excluding AI.
trend impattanti - global.png
  

Key trends shaping the C-suite in Italy

Artificial intelligence remains at the top of the list of most impactful
 trends, along with geopolitical and social instability and the emergence
 of new technologies.

Despite these challenges, leaders’ confidence in managing key trends 
is increasing: this year, 40% of Italian C-suite executives consider 
themselves “very confident,” marking an 11-point increase compared to 2025, in line with global figures.

 

trend impattanti - italia.png
Sylvain Rousmant

Uncertainty has become the new norm, yet leaders are responding with adaptability, bold investments, and a strong focus on technological transformation. Our research shows that success in 2026 will depend as much on adaptability as on ambition. The most forward-looking organizations are embracing change, investing in people and technology, and rethinking their strategies to stay ahead of the competition.

Sylvain Rousmant Financial Advisory Leader

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

Contact us

+39 02 32169300
Meet our local team
Discover our offices
Or use our contact form