Study

6th Annual Horváth CxO Priorities Study

Fundamentals: The New Strategic Advantage -
Navigating Trade Conflicts and Tech Disruptions 

Amid rising geopolitical tensions, accelerating technological change, and shifting global trade patterns, business leaders are returning to what truly matters: strategic clarity, operational focus, and targeted investments.

For our 6th annual CxO Priorities Study, we interviewed over 1,000 top executives worldwide from 33 countries and 15 industries. The analysis reveals their strategic priorities and how organizations are adapting investment decisions in response to increasing complexity. While global relocation trends remain nuanced, there is a clear shift in workforce and capital allocation within Europe and other key markets. Innovation, R&D, and resilience are high on the agenda. In contrast, sustainability has taken a back seat in the face of more immediate business challenges.

Discover how today’s leaders are leveraging core business fundamentals to regain strategic control and position their organizations for long-term success.

Download the study report here!

Keyfact 2

Which strategic management priorities need to be addressed to ensure steady growth?

Improvement of Cost & Profit Structures

61 % Very important 29 % Important

Digital Transformation incl. AI

56 % Very important 35 % Important

Cyber Security

47 % Very important 34 % Important

People-driven Topics

36 % Very important 43 % Important

Reorganization of Structures & Processes

40 % Very important 34 % Important