Five Strategic Weapons to Thrive in the AI Era by EY Strategy and Consulting

In a transformative move, EY Strategy and Consulting Co., Ltd. has announced the publication of a groundbreaking book titled 'Five Strategic Weapons to Thrive in the AI Era' on September 19, 2026. This publication aims to guide businesses in establishing sustainable competitive advantages in an age where artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping industries.

The focus of this book lies in the concept of the 'five moats,' essential frameworks that guide organizations in reassessing their strengths amidst the commodification of knowledge and expertise driven by the rise of generative AI. The author, Makoto Shirota, who serves as the Digital Innovation Director in Technology Consulting at EYSC, elaborates that many traditional sources of competitive advantage such as specialized knowledge and product functionalities are becoming increasingly common and less distinctive. The insights detailed in this manuscript are intended to help companies navigate these changes strategically.

Why Are Companies Facing Threats?

Shirota emphasizes, 'Simply leveraging AI will not ensure that a business maintains a competitive edge. The key is identifying specific strengths that remain resilient in the wake of these disruptors.' In this book, the artifacts of competitive strengths are organized into five distinct moats that companies can cultivate to remain competitive.

Book Overview

- Title: Five Strategic Weapons to Thrive in the AI Era
- Release Date: September 19, 2026
- Author: Makoto Shirota

The book is structured into four main parts, each addressing crucial aspects of competition in the AI age:

1. Commoditization in AI:
- Chapter 1: Why Does the Value of Code Diminish?
- Chapter 2: Disappearing vs. Remaining Advantages

2. Five Moats in the AI Era:
- Chapter 3: Companies Holding Master Data Will Thrive
- Chapter 4: Companies Controlling Business Processes Are Strong
- Chapter 5: Companies Having Direct Customer Engagement Are Powerful
- Chapter 6: Companies Profiting Off Others’ Success on Their Platform
- Chapter 7: Scale is Built on Structure, Not Just Cost

3. Redesigning Moats for the AI Era:
- Chapter 8: It’s the Thin Moat, Not SaaS, That Will Fail
- Chapter 9: Where Should AI-native Companies Build Their Defenses?
- Chapter 10: How Will Non-software Companies' Moats Transform?

4. Investment Strategies for Executives:
- Chapter 11: Investment Priorities in the AI Age
- Chapter 12: A Diagnosis of Your Company’s Moat
- Chapter 13: Companies That Will Survive in the AI Era

This book serves as a vital resource for any business leaders and innovators seeking to understand the landscape of competition as influenced by AI technologies. It encourages a proactive approach to strategy, urging businesses to reflect on their core competencies and make judicious investments in their future.

For more information on acquiring the book, please visit the following publisher's website: Nikkei BP Publishing.

About EY

EY, or Ernst & Young Global Limited, aims to foster the creation of new value for clients, its members, society, and the planet. By leveraging data, AI, and advanced technology, EY teams assist clients in shaping the future with confidence while addressing pressing challenges. EY provides services across various domains including assurance, consulting, tax, strategy, and transactions, supported by insights and a vast network across over 150 regions.

In conclusion, this upcoming publication by EY Strategy and Consulting is a profound tool for businesses striving to endure and thrive in a fast-evolving AI-driven market.