Global CEO Survey 2025: Positive Economic Outlook and Workforce Expansion

Global Economic Growth: Insights from PwC's 2025 CEO Survey

The latest 2025 Global CEO Survey by PwC indicates a rise in optimism among company leaders about the global economy. According to the report, which includes insights from 4,701 CEOs across 109 countries, nearly 60% anticipate an increase in global economic growth within the next year, a notable rise from 38% last year and 18% two years ago.

Workforce Expansion Plans

Along with expecting economic growth, 42% of CEOs forecast staffing increases by around 5% or more in the next twelve months, which is more than double the proportion expecting a decrease (17%). In particular, smaller firms with less than $100 million in revenue reported a higher percentage (48%) planning to expand their staff. This trend is most apparent in the technology sector, real estate, private equity, and pharmaceuticals, with growth expectations reaching as high as 61%.

Embracing Technology: GenAI Implementation

A significant factor driving this workforce expansion is the implementation of Generative AI (GenAI). Many CEOs report tangible benefits, with 56% noting improvements in efficiency and 34% experiencing an increase in profitability. However, the integration of AI technologies into businesses varies, with only about a third of CEOs expressing high confidence in incorporating AI into essential business processes. Despite concerns, it's noteworthy that more executives expect GenAI to lead to job creation rather than job losses.

The Need for Transformation

The need for transformation is underscored by 42% of CEOs who believe their companies might not survive the next decade if they continue on the current path. Moreover, in the last five years, about 38% of surveyed firms have ventured into new sectors, indicating a shift in their business models to adapt to changing markets. Despite these efforts, many companies still struggle with agility, with only a fraction reallocating significant resources between projects or business areas.

Risks on the Horizon

While the outlook is generally positive, concerns about economic volatility (29%) and inflation (27%) loom large as major risks in the year ahead. The risks vary by region, with geopolitical conflicts highlighted as significant concerns in the Middle East and Central and Eastern Europe. In North America and the Asia-Pacific region, concerns echo global averages, illustrating a unified apprehension about impending challenges.

The Climate Factor

Incorporating climate-related investments remains a priority for CEOs, as these investments have shown to significantly increase potential revenues. Data suggest that such investments yield revenue increases six times more likely than revenue losses. However, the complexity of regulatory requirements remains a barrier to initiating these essential investments.

Conclusion

PwC's Global CEO Survey portrays a complex, yet optimistic picture for the business landscape ahead. With executives recognizing the necessity of reinventing business strategies—including workforce expansions, technological advancements, and climate-conscious investments—2025 could be a transformative year for many industries. Companies that embrace this era of change and act decisively are more likely to thrive in the evolving economic environment.