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The VivaTech 2026 Confidence Barometer: A Look into Global Technology Insights

As the global landscape of technology shifts rapidly, VivaTech has presented its third edition of the Confidence Barometer, a comprehensive survey conducted by OpinionWay. Covering insights from tech executives across Europe and North America, this report explores complex themes around sovereignty, the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), and the prevailing investment sentiments in today's economy.

Understanding Technological Sovereignty

A significant revelation from the report is the increasing emphasis on technological sovereignty. For executives across the surveyed nations, the preference for tech partners who share their national identity is pronounced. An overwhelming 92% indicated a preference for potential partners from their own country, with 47% deeming this commonality as a critical decision factor.

This trend is particularly strong in the English-speaking countries, where 57% in the USA and the UK place high importance on shared nationality, whereas EU members generally see it as an added benefit. Furthermore, 63% of executives expressed concern regarding the potential loss of sovereignty that could accompany technological advancements. This sentiment underscores an emerging Atlantic divide in the understanding of trust and cooperation in technological collaborations.

The Geography of Trust in Technology

The report also highlighted a geographical aspect of trust. About 86% of executives believe that the origin of technology solutions heavily influences their level of trust. Notably, nearly half consider their own country's tech solutions as the most reliable. For instance, 51% of American executives exhibit confidence in domestic solutions, while 62% extend their trust to the broader North American region.

In continental Europe, 43% favor solutions developed within their region. Specifically in France, 63% of executives place their trust in European solutions. In contrast, UK executives show dual confidence—56% in their own nation and an equal level (53%) in continental Europe, showcasing the UK's balancing act between differing worlds.

The AI Paradox: Confidence Amid Risks

In an intriguing twist, the barometer reveals a paradox concerning AI. An impressive 89% of executives express their trust in AI to guide their company's strategic decisions. Additionally, 83% are confident about the sustainable development of AI investments, reflecting a robust belief in the technology's potential. However, only 17% fear a speculative bubble concerning AI growth.

Even more compelling, 92% of executives believe they will maintain employment levels over the next year, indicating a level of optimism about job security in the wake of AI adoption. Yet, the report sheds light on a cautious practice; around 40% of executives admitted to sharing company information with AI tools they did not fully trust. This dichotomy emphasizes the complexity of navigating confidence and skepticism as technology continues to evolve.

Investment Trends: A Focus on AI and Cybersecurity

Regarding financial outlooks, a staggering 87% of executives plan to increase investments in AI within the next year, alongside 77% aiming to enhance their cybersecurity measures. This trend signifies a broader recognition of the importance of securing technology infrastructures while harnessing the power of AI to drive business success.

In conclusion, the VivaTech 2026 Confidence Barometer encapsulates the intricate dynamics of technology adoption amidst global uncertainties. As executives grapple with issues of sovereignty, trust, and the implications of AI, it becomes clear that navigating these tensions will shape the future of technological collaboration across borders.