Business Confidence Soars: Key Trends Driving Growth in the Next 12 Months

Maryam Pervez -

A new global report on business decision-making, launched by CNN International Commercial (CNNIC), reveals strong optimism among business leaders for the year ahead.

The report, compiled by B2B International, surveyed nearly 2,000 company leaders from 14 countries, including over 150 from the UAE and Saudi Arabia, to understand their motivations, concerns, and strategic priorities. This comprehensive study, titled "The Business Decision Makers’ Mindset," offers insights from C-suites, business owners, board members, executives, and divisional heads across various sectors.

Key findings from the report highlight:

  • Optimism Fuels Growth: 92% of senior business decision-makers (BDMs) are confident in achieving revenue growth in the upcoming year.
  • Top Business Priorities: Beyond profitability and customer experience, leaders are focusing on digital transformation, attracting global talent, market expansion, and increasing emphasis on sustainability, ESG, and DEI initiatives.
  • Importance of Technology: With the growing significance of AI and advanced technology, 87% of respondents cited digital transformation as a critical business objective, while 70% expressed concerns about cybersecurity and emerging technologies.
  • Sustainability Actions: 80% of BDMs are altering partnerships with suppliers based on ESG performance and ethical practices.
  • Alignment in Values: Brand image, perception, reputation, and trust are crucial, with 90% preferring partners whose values align with theirs.
  • Global Perspective: A global outlook is essential, with 96% agreeing that international news is important for informing business decisions, and 65% considering it 'extremely important.'

Jo Tenzer, Director of Audience Insight at CNNIC, commented on the report, stating,

“Delving into the macro and micro influences on the decision-making process and the impetus that determine an organization’s roadmap has been fascinating. After navigating unprecedented challenges from technological shifts to managing growing expectations on sustainability, senior business decision-makers are maintaining a positive mindset. Through this research, we have certainly seen a blurring of where priorities sit. AI and emerging technology continue to be a focus and now cybersecurity – which could once have been considered a concern of the IT department but encompasses reputational damage and consumer trust – is a top business priority.”

News Source: Communicate