Navigating the Complexities of Cybersecurity and AI in 2025 Business Landscape

Navigating the Business Landscape in 2025

In a world increasingly characterized by unpredictability, business leaders are being bombarded with challenges driven by cyber threats, rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, and geopolitical instabilities. According to the recent findings from Kroll's 2025 Global Business Sentiment Survey, a significant number of leaders feel ill-equipped to navigate this complex landscape. Less than one-third of those surveyed reported feeling "very prepared” for the vast array of challenges on the horizon, which range from technology integration to regulatory changes and possible trade disruptions.

Jacob Silverman, the CEO of Kroll, emphasizes the pressing nature of the situation, stating, “We’re witnessing a business environment saturated with volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity. Comprehensive insights offered in our survey can assist organizations in mitigating risks and bolstering their resilience.”

Rising Cybersecurity Concerns

The survey highlights escalating concerns about cybersecurity. Around 74% of organizations indicated that they are grappling with increased threats to data privacy and security, with malware and AI-driven exploits ranking among the most ubiquitous issues. The urgency of these threats is underscored by recent high-profile cyberattacks that have raised awareness about the importance of safeguarding sensitive information. Notably, 47% of leaders identified cybersecurity threats as one of their top challenges, closely followed by AI developments at 43%.

A glaring compliance gap in addressing global data privacy laws has emerged, with only 12% of companies feeling adequately prepared to comply. This inadequacy is particularly concerning as regulatory frameworks grow increasingly complex across various countries, including significant markets like the United States, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Despite a prevalent belief among 75% of respondents that AI can offer measurable returns on investment, only a minority—41%—have established comprehensive AI policies, which raises concerns about potential compliance failures and ethical risks associated with unregulated AI decision-making processes.

Understanding Economic and Geopolitical Instabilities

As businesses face tumultuous economic conditions, understanding the geopolitical landscape is essential. A staggering number of business leaders express diminished confidence about their company's financial health, with less than 10% claiming to feel fully secure. Nevertheless, 70% anticipate an improvement in their situation as they confront the myriad challenges ahead.

Specifically, one-third of respondents in the survey identified geopolitical tensions as pivotal challenges for their businesses, with US, UK, and EU companies echoing concerns about tariffs, technology regulation, and cyberattacks. American participants showed particular apprehension regarding inflation and domestic political instability, while European firms indicated growing unease regarding evolving data privacy laws.

This geopolitical tension amplifies supply chain challenges and increases the likelihood of attacks on critical infrastructure, with only 28% of global business leaders feeling “very prepared” to tackle these geopolitical threats.

Michael H. Dolan, President of Financial Advisory at Kroll, elucidated the relevance of tariffs, stating that they instigate significant business challenges, including liquidity crises and financing obstacles, pushing business leaders to devise mitigation strategies while remaining compliant and agile in a demanding operating environment.

Embracing Automation Amid Rising Risks

Despite these multifaceted threats, there’s a silver lining. The transition toward automation and digitalization across various sectors is gaining momentum. Approximately 90% of organizations report implementing some level of automation within their operations, particularly in IT and cybersecurity functions, with notable advancements seen in regions like the Middle East, South Africa, the United States, and Brazil.

Moreover, at least 40% of business leaders are proactively expanding budgets, hiring external talent, and offering upskilling opportunities to address challenges related to AI integration and cybersecurity.

The full findings of the 2025 Global Business Sentiment Survey can be accessed on Kroll's website, providing essential insights for leaders looking to navigate this precarious climate.

About Kroll

Kroll is a leading independent provider of financial and risk advisory solutions, leveraging over 6,500 professionals' expertise globally. With nearly a century of trusted experience, Kroll aims to empower organizations to stay ahead of complex valuation demands and develop sustainable competitive advantages amidst current global threats.