Business Leaders Prioritize Economic & Social Stability, AI Risks in New Global Risk Assessment
London – December 3, 2025 - A new survey of over 11,000 business leaders across 116 countries reveals a shifting landscape of global risk perception. while economic concerns remain paramount, anxieties surrounding social stability, the spread of misinformation, and the implications of rapidly advancing artificial intelligence are gaining significant traction.
The Executive Opinion Survey 2025, released today by the World Economic Forum in partnership wiht Marsh McLennan and Zurich Insurance Group, identifies the top five near-term risks facing businesses globally. For the third year running, the prospect of an economic downturn tops the list, especially in the UK and US.
However, the survey highlights a growing awareness of non-economic threats. Concerns about inadequate public services and social safety nets, coupled with limited economic chance, rank as the second and third most pressing risks, signaling increasing fears of social fragmentation. Inflation,a major worry in 2024,has slipped to fourth place.
Notably, technological risks related to misinformation and disinformation have broken into the top five for the first time, landing in fifth position. This surge in concern reflects the growing recognition that advancements in AI are exacerbating information warfare, perhaps impacting elections, financial markets, and critical infrastructure security.
“The rise of AI is empowering malicious actors and amplifying the spread of false information,” stated Andrew George, President of Marsh Specialty. “Businesses are now prioritizing the challenges posed by rapid AI adoption and the associated cyber threats. While immediate economic and geopolitical pressures are demanding attention, long-term environmental objectives must not be neglected to mitigate climate-related risks.”
Alison Martin, CEO, EMEA & Bank Distribution at Zurich, emphasized the importance of proactive social investment. “This year’s findings underscore that issues like pension security and public health are no longer solely the domain of governments – they are now critical boardroom concerns. Demographic trends in Europe, with a shrinking workforce supporting a growing retiree population, are particularly alarming. Addressing these gaps is vital for both workforce wellbeing and broader societal stability. Collaborative action is needed to build financial resilience and secure a more prosperous future.”
Interestingly, extreme weather events, previously ranked as a top five risk by G20 leaders in 2024, did not feature in this year’s top concerns.
The Executive Opinion Survey is conducted annually by the World Economic Forum’s Center for the New Economy and Society.
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