By the numbers: The report outlines a clear disconnect between where companies want to go and the threats they face getting there.

Top 5 Near-Term Risks:

Cyber threats
Third-party risk
Emerging tech adoption and workforce upskilling
Legacy null null IT and operational performance gaps
Economic conditions and inflation

Top 5 Investment Priorities:

Cybersecurity
Business process improvement
Infrastructure modernization
Data privacy
Customer experience

Zoom in: Artificial intelligence is a central part of this dynamic. While seen as a key to future growth, its implementation is a major concern.

Nearly one-third (31%) of executives are focused on the data integrity and cybersecurity exposures tied to AI.
An equal share (31%) is actively integrating AI into their operations, showing a parallel track of adoption and apprehension.
This push has elevated "workforce upskilling" to a top-three near-term risk, as companies race to prepare their employees for new AI-driven roles and processes.

The big picture: The survey data indicates that standing still is no longer a viable strategy. Concerns over legacy null IT systems and upskilling have risen in importance since last year's survey, while worries about general economic conditions have slightly lessened.

This is driving major investment in infrastructure modernization and cybersecurity to build more resilient operations.
"The greatest risk today is standing still," said Matt Moore of Protiviti.
Six in 10 leaders also plan to expand their ecosystem of strategic partnerships to improve their go-to-market capabilities.

What's next: Looking further ahead, executives are prioritizing long-term strategies that blend offense and defense. The top strategic priorities include focusing on customers and competition, bolstering security and privacy, deploying AI effectively, and building market resilience and a robust talent strategy.

SURVEY: Global Executives Bet on Growth as Cyber and AI Top the Risk Ledger

Related Stories

Recommended For You