Most CEOs believe the election will influence their 2025 business strategy

As the economic and political landscape continues to be shaped by the election, many leaders are considering how the outcome could affect trade policies, immigration, and other key factors influencing global markets. These concerns highlight how much the business world relies on political stability and alignment, particularly in relation to U. S. leadership. The results were shared publicly at the Future Investment Initiative Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where Stagwell’s CEO, Mark Penn, discussed these findings with global investors. The source of these insights comes from a survey conducted between October 4 and 11, 2024, which involved 100 CEOs of major corporations from around the world, shedding light on how international perspectives align or differ when it comes to the expected impact of U.S. leadership on global economic stability.

U.S. Vs global CEOs: different views on economic growth

The survey also revealed a striking divide between U. S. and global CEOs regarding which U. S. presidential candidate they believe would foster global economic growth. A clear majority of U.S.-based CEOs favored Donald Trump (52%) over Kamala Harris (15%) in boosting the global economy. However, global CEOs were more divided, with 35% supporting Harris and 30% backing Trump. This split in opinion underscores how the political landscape in the U. S. could have varying implications for different regions. CEOs from outside the U. S. are particularly concerned about the potential shifts in trade relations and foreign policy, which could directly impact their own markets and investment strategies. We will see if and when Trump’s supporters got it right.

Investment outlook: Gulf region’s appeal to global CEOs

When it comes to global investment trends, the Gulf region—particularly Saudi Arabia—is seen as a highly attractive market by 79% of global CEOs, with 86% specifically praising the investment environment in Saudi Arabia. This growing optimism reflects the strategic importance of the Gulf region in global business, driven by its continued investment in infrastructure and technology. The region’s economic diversification efforts, especially in sectors like energy, technology, and tourism, have made it a focal point for long-term global investments. These findings further emphasize how global CEOs are aligning their strategies to capitalize on the opportunities presented by these rapidly developing markets.

Optimism about technology and AI’s role in improving lives

In terms of technology, the survey highlights a strong sense of optimism among CEOs. A significant 85% of them believe that technological innovation, especially AI, will be crucial in enhancing quality of life. Over 70% of global CEOs are confident about AI’s potential to improve citizen welfare, with 35% expressing strong optimism. This surge in optimism reflects the growing recognition of AI’s transformative role in industries ranging from healthcare to transportation. CEOs are increasingly investing in technology solutions that can drive business performance while simultaneously addressing societal needs, showcasing a trend toward balancing innovation with public benefit.