A survey conducted among CEOs of major global corporations reveals significant changes in the assessment of geopolitical risks between 2024 and 2025. Analysis of the opinions expressed indicates growing concerns about issues such as trade wars, energy security, and cyber threats that impact economic and strategic decision-making.
This survey was conducted among CEOs of companies with a global reach and focuses on geopolitical challenges in 2024 and 2025. Executives from diverse industries such as technology, energy, financial services, manufacturing, and transportation participated in the survey. These sectors often represent the activities of multinational companies with a strong presence in international markets.
Technology companies play a key role in these discussions due to their reliance on global supply chains and vulnerability to cyber-attacks. Energy industries are also heavily impacted by challenges related to rising prices and geopolitical shifts associated with resource procurement. In the financial sector, issues such as national debts and interest rates in various countries influence decision-making in this area. Additionally, companies in the manufacturing and transportation sectors face challenges such as escalating trade wars and disruptions in the supply chain.
Trade wars in 2025
In 2025, trade wars emerge as the primary geopolitical threat, whereas this risk was ranked tenth in 2024. This shift indicates intensifying economic competition between major powers, especially the United States and China. CEOs of large corporations are concerned about the escalation of protectionist policies and trade tariffs, which could disrupt global supply chains and put additional pressure on the world economy.
Growing concerns about energy
Energy prices remain a key issue, ranking high in both years. The energy crisis resulting from the Ukraine war and the world's dependence on limited energy resources will force many companies to make special plans to secure their energy supplies.
Cyber threats and digital security
Cyber-attacks are ranked as the third-largest threat in 2025. With the world's increasing reliance on technology and the internet, cyber threats have been steadily growing, challenging the security of companies and governments alike.
Decoupling from China
The issue of decoupling or reducing dependence on China, which was ranked eighth in 2024, has risen to fourth place in 2025. This indicates a global effort to reduce political and economic impacts resulting from over-reliance on China as a global manufacturing hub.
Regional risks and national debt
CEOs of major companies have also pointed to increasing regional risks in sensitive areas such as Asia-Pacific and West Asia. The war in West Asia and existing tensions in the Asia-Pacific region have heightened concerns about the possibility of broader conflicts. In addition, the national debt crisis in various countries has been identified as a key factor in economic risks.
Implications for the global economy
The changes in these rankings indicate that CEOs of major companies are paying attention not only to current risks but also to long-term geopolitical trends. The direct impact of these risks on investment, production, and global trade is undeniable. Escalating trade wars can lead to reduced economic growth and heightened international tensions. Moreover, cyber threats and energy crises require immediate strategies to counter and secure against these challenges.
The survey results emphasize that the global geopolitical environment will be highly volatile in the coming years. Companies and governments must adopt agile and intelligent strategies to manage these risks. Escalating trade wars, cyber threats, and energy crises are just part of the challenges ahead, requiring international coordination and swift decision-making.
These findings demonstrate that geopolitical concerns, regardless of industry type, have a significant impact on the planning and strategies of large corporations.
NOURNEWS