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CEOs Enter 2026 with Heightened Concerns Over Economic Uncertainty

As 2026 kicks off, a new survey has unveiled that a substantial number of CEOs are grappling with heightened uncertainty, which stands as their primary concern for the year. Conducted by The Conference Board, this survey highlights how U.S. CEOs, in particular, are experiencing a unique set of challenges that differ from their global counterparts.

Uncertainty Dominates U.S. CEOs’ Concerns

The survey reveals that an alarming 43% of U.S. CEOs view uncertainty as their foremost economic threat, a sharp contrast to the global average of 29%. In fact, uncertainty has eclipsed traditional concerns such as the threat of a recession, which ranks second for U.S. CEOs at 35%. This divergence underscores the unique economic landscape U.S. leaders are navigating.

AI's Role in Business Strategy

As businesses evolve, artificial intelligence (AI) continues to be on the forefront of corporate strategy discussions. The survey highlights that 46% of U.S. CEOs prioritize measuring the return on investment (ROI) associated with AI, significantly higher than the 33% of CEOs globally who share this concern. This intense focus on understanding AI's business value reflects broader anxieties around technological disruptions that could reshape industries. Notably, 38% of U.S. CEOs express fears that AI may harm their businesses, compared to 30% of CEOs worldwide who harbor similar concerns.

Employee Well-Being Takes Precedence

Amidst these challenging economic conditions, CEOs are adjusting their priorities regarding workforce welfare. The survey indicates a marked shift towards valuing employee mental health, which has taken precedence over traditional workplace dynamics such as working conditions or gender equality. This change marks a significant cultural shift within corporations as they adapt to the evolving needs of their workforce in a post-pandemic world.

Sustainability and ESG Investments

While global concerns over Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives remain strong, U.S. CEOs are reconsidering their approach. Approximately 38% of U.S. CEOs are deprioritizing sustainability investments altogether for 2026, compared to 20% of CEOs worldwide. Interestingly, the focus within the U.S. falters in favor of circular economy initiatives, which are prioritized by 17% of U.S. CEOs, illustrating a strategic pivot toward specific sustainability practices rather than broad ESG commitments.

Geopolitical and Cybersecurity Risks

A notable finding from the survey is the increased concern over geopolitical tensions and cybersecurity threats. Nearly half of the CEOs globally (47%) identify cyberattacks as the leading geopolitical threat. U.S. CEOs reflect this sentiment with an even higher concern rate of 54%. While issues surrounding armed conflict and uncertainty are prevalent, the immediate risk posed by cyber threats is reshaping how companies devise their security strategies for 2026.

Plans for Business Growth in 2026

Despite feeling the weight of these challenges, many CEOs remain optimistic about growth. Their strategic focus for 2026 revolves around several key areas:

• - Business model innovation: A significant 60% of U.S. CEOs prioritize altering business models as a strategy to enhance profitability.
• - Investment in AI technology: Globally, 42% of CEOs view AI as the chief investment priority, indicating a consensus on its crucial role in future business development.
• - Adaptation of supply chains: Integrating AI into supply chains remains a critical focus, revealing that technological adoption is essential for operational efficiency.

As the year unfolds, CEOs' insights underscore a complex mix of caution and ambition, navigating a landscape marked by uncertainty but ripe with opportunities for innovation and transformation. As their strategies evolve, these leaders will be at the forefront of shaping the economic narrative for 2026 and beyond.