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Introduction to the VivaTech 2026 Confidence Barometer

The VivaTech 2026 Confidence Barometer presents a nuanced picture of the current landscape surrounding technology and its adoption in light of sovereignty and cybersecurity concerns. Conducted by OpinionWay among technology executives in Europe and North America, this survey captures the attitudes and insights of industry leaders towards emerging technologies and their implications.

Sovereignty and Technology Adoption

One significant finding from the Barometer is the overwhelming preference for local partnerships in technology adoption. A staggering 92% of executives expressed that they would prefer to collaborate with companies from their home country when integrating new technologies. Furthermore, 47% of respondents indicated that national affiliation would be a crucial factor in their decision-making process. This trend is particularly pronounced in English-speaking regions, where 57% of participants in the U.S. and the U.K. emphasized this preference as a dominant aspect in terms of security and trust.

Trust Geography: Forming New Alliances

The geographical origin of tech solutions also notably affects trust levels. An impressive 86% of executives stated that the origin of technological innovations directly impacts their confidence in those technologies. Interestingly, roughly half of the surveyed leaders (47%) placed their utmost trust in solutions developed within their own country, showcasing a remarkable inclination towards regional solutions. Meanwhile, 51% of U.S. executives displayed strong belief in domestic advancements, while 62% extended their trust to the broader North American landscape. In Europe, about 43% of leaders favored local solutions, with a significant 63% of French executives voicing confidence in European innovations.

AI Paradox: Trust Amidst Risk

The survey also dives into the paradox surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) adoption. While an impressive 89% of executives trust AI to guide their business decisions, the level of caution regarding the associated risks remains palpable. Notably, only 17% of participants worried about a potential speculative bubble, while 83% felt optimistic about the sustainable development of AI investments. Despite this, 40% of leaders admitted to sharing sensitive company information with AI tools they do not fully trust, reflecting a critical gap between confidence and security.

Rising Investments in AI and Cybersecurity

As for future trajectories, an impressive 87% of leaders plan to increase their investments in AI over the next year, with 77% intending to bolster their cybersecurity expenditures. This indicates a recognition of the growing reliance on technology and the necessity to fortify cybersecurity measures in light of current threats.

Conclusion

The VivaTech 2026 Confidence Barometer shines a spotlight on the complex relationship between technology, sovereignty, and cybersecurity in today's fragmented geopolitical context. As leaders navigate these challenges, their preferences reveal a strong desire for local partnerships, heightened trust in domestic innovations, and a cautious yet optimistic approach towards AI and cybersecurity investments. The findings underscore an evolving technological landscape where governance and trust dynamics play pivotal roles in decision-making processes, shaping the future of technology integration.

In conclusion, these insights remind stakeholders in the tech industry to remain vigilant as they embrace innovation while navigating the intricate dance of trust and technology in an ever-evolving global environment.