Observed Signal · Aug 11, 2026 · Study Release · Source: Retail-News · Impact: 3/5 · Sentiment: Positive
PwC Survey: CEOs Stay Optimistic Despite Crises
A PwC mid-year survey of 351 CEOs across 59 countries finds that many executives remain optimistic about growth despite geopolitical tensions, rising energy costs, and economic uncertainty. About 42% of respondents are very or extremely confident their companies will grow in the next 12 months, and one-third are more optimistic than eight months earlier. The survey highlights technological resilience and AI as key competitive advantages: almost four in ten CEOs use AI to explore new opportunities, and 39% report positive business outcomes from AI. Energ y costs have emerged as the biggest cost pressure, with 19% reporting increases above 10%. The study was fielded between May and June 2026 and complements PwC’s annual Global CEO Survey.
The PwC mid-year CEO survey provides timely, cross-border executive sentiment showing resilience and increased AI adoption — insights that can influence corporate investment, tech spending and marketing strategies across industries, including MarTech and AdTech.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- PwC conducted the 'CEO Survey Mid-Year Snapshot' interviewing 351 CEOs from 59 countries between May and June 2026.
- 42% of surveyed CEOs said they are very or extremely confident their companies will grow in the next 12 months.
- 19% of respondents reported energy cost increases of more than 10%, making energy the largest financial surprise.
- Nearly 40% of CEOs use AI to pursue new opportunities, and 39% of companies report positive business results from AI adoption.
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