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Understanding the VivaTech 2026 Confidence Barometer

The third edition of the VivaTech Confidence Barometer, published by OpinionWay, uncovers critical insights regarding the current technological landscape among leaders across several countries. As the world grapples with a fragmented geopolitical context, this report highlights the pressing tensions between technological adoption, national sovereignty, and cybersecurity—issues made even more pertinent by recent global events.

Key Findings

In a striking statistic, 92% of executives expressed a preference for partnering with technology providers from their own countries when adopting new tools. This factor emerged as crucial, with 47% deeming it essential. Among Anglo-Saxon countries, such as the USA and the UK, the preference is notably high, with 57% of executives voicing similar concerns. Conversely, many European leaders view this national preference as a beneficial aspect rather than a necessity.

Another significant take from the report is the rising concern regarding the loss of sovereignty that may accompany advances in technology. Approximately 63% of executives worry about losing control over their sovereign capabilities as technological solutions proliferate.

Geographic Trust Dynamics

The geographical origin of tech solutions appears to significantly influence the trust placed in them, with a staggering 86% of leaders acknowledging this connection. Almost half of the executives surveyed, specifically 47%, highlighted their country as their most trusted tech origin. Interestingly, American leaders display a strong preference for domestic solutions (51%), with an overall confidence in North American tech solutions (62%). Meanwhile, European leaders exhibit a continental bias, with 43% expressing a preference for tech solutions from their region. This shows that, despite geographical differences, there is a clear trend leaning toward familiar, local technological partners.

The AI Paradox

Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerges as another central theme in the survey. An impressive 89% of executives trust AI to drive corporate decision-making, while 83% believe in a sustainable and controlled evolution of AI investments. Remarkably, only 17% fear a speculative bubble might arise from these investments. Despite the high levels of trust in AI, there exists a notable contradiction; 40% of executives have already shared sensitive business information with an AI tool they did not fully trust.

Investment Trends

Looking forward, there is a momentum shift towards increased investment in AI and cybersecurity. In the upcoming 12 months, 87% of executives indicated plans to boost their AI investments, while 77% intend to enhance their cybersecurity efforts. This intention signals a serious commitment to fostering growth and combating potential threats posed by emerging technologies—including AI.

Conclusion

The findings from the VivaTech 2026 Confidence Barometer paint a complex picture of the tech landscape in a world marked by both opportunity and uncertainty. As technological advancements continue to evolve, leaders remain grappling with the balance between embracing innovation and maintaining their national sovereignty. This report underscores the critical importance of trust, national preferences, and the proactive investment in technologies that can propel companies forward while safeguarding their interests. The ongoing dialogue among business leaders will play a significant role in shaping the future of technology adoption and regulation, ensuring that growth aligns with the broader goals of society and governance.