Privacy, data use, transparency and AI safety top CEO trust concerns

New research by PwC in its 29th Global CEO Survey, which gathered responses from 4,454 chief executives across 95 countries, reveals that artificial intelligence (AI) remains a leading concern, with many leaders questioning if they are transforming fast enough to keep pace with technological shifts. While PwC found investment in AI is accelerating, immediate financial returns remain varied, with only 12% of companies reporting both increased revenues and decreased costs. Currently, only 30% of organisations have realised tangible revenue growth through AI, while 56% have yet to see any significant financial impact. Asked about the key foundations required to support AI adoption, 69% of respondents agreed that organisational culture is critical, while 51% cited having responsible AI and risk processes. 

Cybersecurity has risen to become a top-tier threat, now equal to macroeconomic instability in perceived risk. The survey shows that 31% of CEOs feel highly exposed to significant financial losses from cyber threats, a marked increase from 24% last year and 21% the year before. In response, 84% of leaders plan to enhance enterprise-wide security practices to mitigate risks often linked to broader geopolitical tensions.

Stakeholder trust is now considered a vital component of value creation, with 66% of companies experiencing moderate to high trust concerns over the last year. Asked to what extent your company has experienced any of the following trust concerns from your key stakeholder groups over the last 12 months, the top three responses were: 38% highighted data use and privacy, a further 38% cited demands for greater transparency, while 37% acknowledged concerns over AI safety and responsible AI use. 

The survey also highlights a direct correlation between trust and financial performance, finding that companies with the fewest trust concerns delivered shareholder returns 9% higher than those with the most issues.

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