1,200 global executives and 300 institutional investors took part, confirming the continuing focus on short-term returns.
Respondents also indicated that longer-term ambitions around decarbonisation and the creation of new revenue streams could be attained faster by engaging more effectively with institutional investors and government.
Investing in technology, including artificial intelligence (AI) to improve growth and productivity, is a top priority for nearly half (47%) of CEOs over the next 12 months, while enhancing data management and cybersecurity (45%) and managing end-to-end costs in every aspect of their business (38%) also remain as important strategic priorities for companies.
Dan Saunders, EY’s Channel Islands Managing Partner, said decarbonisation is also a priority.
“Seeing an increase in investment in emerging technologies is expected given the continued growth of AI and the ongoing cyber security risks businesses face, with CEOs understanding the importance of integrating these challenges into their strategic plans,” he said.
“Now is the time to revisit and refine strategies to navigate through the challenges that lie ahead and ensure Guernsey and Jersey remain leading International Financial Centres for investors.”
Pictured top: Dan Saunders.