What are the top trends in corporate advisory for the next decade?

1 Digital transformation

One of the most obvious and impactful trends in corporate advisory is the digital transformation of businesses and industries. Digital transformation refers to the integration of digital technologies, data, and processes into all aspects of business operations, products, services, and customer interactions. It enables businesses to improve efficiency, agility, innovation, and customer satisfaction, as well as to create new revenue streams and competitive advantages. Corporate advisors play a crucial role in helping businesses navigate the digital transformation journey, by providing strategic guidance, technical expertise, change management, and risk mitigation.

2 Sustainability and social responsibility

Another major trend in corporate advisory is the increasing focus on sustainability and social responsibility. Sustainability and social responsibility refer to the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into business decisions, practices, and outcomes. They reflect the growing awareness and demand from stakeholders, such as customers, employees, investors, regulators, and communities, for businesses to operate in a responsible and ethical manner, and to contribute to the global challenges of climate change, social justice, and human rights. Corporate advisors help businesses align their strategies, operations, and reporting with ESG standards and goals, as well as to identify and leverage opportunities for positive impact and value creation.

3 Data and analytics

A third key trend in corporate advisory is the rising importance and use of data and analytics. Data and analytics refer to the collection, processing, analysis, and visualization of large and complex datasets, using advanced tools and techniques, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud computing. They enable businesses to generate insights, predictions, and recommendations that can enhance decision making, performance, and innovation. Corporate advisors help businesses harness the power of data and analytics, by designing and implementing data strategies, platforms, and solutions, as well as by developing data literacy and culture.

4 Diversification and collaboration

A fourth significant trend in corporate advisory is the diversification and collaboration of businesses and industries. Diversification and collaboration refer to the expansion and integration of business activities, products, services, and markets, across different sectors, regions, and domains. They enable businesses to access new opportunities, customers, and resources, as well as to mitigate risks, costs, and uncertainties. Corporate advisors help businesses pursue diversification and collaboration, by conducting market research, feasibility studies, valuation analysis, and due diligence, as well as by facilitating partnerships, alliances, and mergers and acquisitions.

6 Innovation and disruption

A sixth and final trend in corporate advisory is the acceleration and intensification of innovation and disruption. Innovation and disruption refer to the creation and adoption of new and novel ideas, products, services, and business models, that challenge and change the status quo and the competitive landscape. They enable businesses to gain and sustain competitive advantages, as well as to respond and adapt to changing customer needs and expectations. Corporate advisors help businesses foster and embrace innovation and disruption, by providing innovation strategy, design thinking, and agile methodology consulting, as well as by supporting and facilitating innovation processes, projects, and ecosystems.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?