Nine in Ten Leaders Expect 2026 Growth Amid Uncertainty
More than nine in ten business leaders expect growth in 2026, according to a new survey that also flags economic uncertainty as a persistent obstacle.
The Forvis Mazars 2026 C‑suite barometer surveyed over 3,000 senior managers across 40 markets. It found 94% anticipate that technology transformation will boost profits within a year, with AI topping the investment list at 76%.
Overall, 69% say they are raising spending across all business areas, a five‑point jump from the prior year. Confidence in handling major trends also climbed; 43% describe themselves as “very confident,” up from 37%.
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When asked about strategic priorities for the next three to five years, 39% pointed to technology‑driven transformation. The next most common goals were adapting business models (24%), expanding internationally (23%), and updating talent strategies (22%). A similar share listed new product lines and supply‑chain reviews.
Leaders appear to be getting a handle on AI. The survey shows 61% feel “very confident” and another 33% “fairly confident” about managing the technology. In practice, 80% have reshaped teams in the past two years to support adoption.
Growth outlook tempered by economic uncertainty
Despite optimism, the barometer notes that 92% hold a positive view of their organization’s growth prospects for 2026. Yet the source of that growth is shifting. With organic revenue seen as weak, firms are turning to private‑equity deals and joint ventures as alternative engines.
Uncertainty remains the top growth inhibitor, cited by 42% of respondents for the fourth consecutive year. Competition follows at 32%. International expansion plans now span Canada, Germany, France and China, challenging the United States as a primary destination.
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Mark Kennedy, partner and chief clients and markets officer at Forvis Mazars Group, said: “Uncertainty is now the norm, but leaders are responding with adaptability, bold investments and a focus on technology‑driven transformation.” He added that success in 2026 will hinge as much on flexibility as on ambition.
What comes next for the C‑suite?
Looking ahead, senior managers will need to balance bold technology bets with the reality of tighter budgets. The survey suggests that adaptability will be tested as firms juggle expansion ambitions against lingering market doubts.
In the near term, the focus will remain on delivering the promised profit lift from tech projects while keeping an eye on external pressures. The next round of data will reveal whether the optimism for 2026 translates into measurable performance.
