Sentry Survey Reveals Executive Optimism Amid Rising Stress Levels in 2026

In a recent survey conducted by Sentry®, the 2026 C-Suite Stress Index, it was found that over half of U.S. executives are displaying optimism regarding the prospects for their companies in the coming year. Despite this hopeful outlook, a significant number of business leaders reported feeling increased pressures compared to the previous year. This striking dichotomy—optimism coupled with rising stress—sheds light on the complexities businesses face as they navigate through uncertain times.

The survey, which sampled 1,250 executives, including CEOs, CFOs, and Chief Risk Officers, revealed that 54% of leaders expressed confidence in their organizations' ability to not only survive but thrive in 2026. However, this confidence is tempered by stress, with 60% of executives admitting to feeling more pressure compared to 2025, suggesting that while optimism is prevalent, the challenges facing these leaders are far from trivial.

Among the concerns highlighted in the survey, supply-chain disruptions and economic pressures emerged as the top two business risks for 2026, cited by 45% and 44% of executives, respectively. Other significant threats included tariffs and trade uncertainties (39%), labor shortages (38%), and escalating healthcare costs (38%). Additionally, concerns around cyberattacks were raised by 37% of respondents, indicating a broad range of issues that executives need to contend with.

Interestingly, the survey also uncovered a notable disconnect between executives' perceptions of risk and the realities that could potentially threaten their businesses. For instance, while nearly all organizations (92%) have faced weather-related disruptions over the last five years, only 32% of executives placed natural catastrophes among their top concerns for 2026. Similarly, while 93% of businesses have been impacted by lawsuits in recent years, only 17% included legal threats within their top risks for the upcoming year.

The disconnect extends beyond mere numbers; it highlights a critical oversight among leaders focusing on perceived manageable risks while potentially ignoring dire existential threats. Sentry’s National Sales Director, Brett Hoopingarner, emphasized that the best strategy against devastating legal claims is to implement proactive risk management practices. Collaboration with brokers and insurers was suggested as vital for improving operational safety and reducing potential liabilities.

Furthermore, the survey indicated that a majority of executives (84%) expect more from their employees, assigning tasks that go beyond traditional roles, while over half (51%) have asked their workforce to extend their hours or reduce breaks. This trend signifies an increasing strain on the labor force as businesses attempt to navigate mounting pressures.

In response to the shifting demographic landscape, where an aging population is prompting higher healthcare costs, 98% of executives are reviewing their companies’ insurance policies this year. Despite these substantial concerns, a considerable number still plan to retain their existing coverage rather than pursue adjustments that would better address evolving risks.

Moving forward, it’s crucial that organizations recalibrate their outlooks, focusing not only on immediate challenges but also addressing underlying risks that could lead to catastrophic failures. Regular assessments of insurance policies and reinforcement of workplace safety measures should be prioritized to ensure that companies remain resilient against both anticipated and unforeseen disruptions.

As the year progresses, the balance between optimism and stress will undoubtedly shape the business landscape. Leaders must remain vigilant, adaptive, and proactive to effectively steer their companies through the complexities that lie ahead. The 2026 C-Suite Stress Index underscores the need for comprehensive risk management and a strategic approach to navigating the uncertainties of the business world.