5 must reads for the weekend

We keep our ear to the ground for the interesting stats, insights and discussion points you need to feel in the know.?

1. Deal or no deal?

Transactions like acquisitions and divestments are becoming a major focus for businesses looking to transform. In fact, 96% of global CEOs plan to pursue some sort of deal in the next year, according to a new EY-Parthenon CEO Outlook Survey. But while these deals offer big opportunities, they’re also a bit of a double-edged sword. To truly unlock value, leaders need to think beyond just completing the deal — they should have a bold, transformative vision. Leaders who dare to dream big and put people at the center of the action can boost success by 2.6 times. When leaders prioritize transformation over transaction, they unlock opportunities that go far beyond the deal itself. It’s not just about what you’re acquiring — it’s about what you’re building next…?

Transact to transform: How a human focus can unlock deal value??

?2. Power struggle

Especially in light of recent AI news, we're all asking the same question: who’s going to power all this tech? Data centers, the backbone of AI, are popping up faster than we can count — and they’re using serious power. Some are gulping down as much electricity as entire cities. As Global Industrials & Energy Leader Steve Wilkinson puts it, “AI isn’t just transforming industries, it’s transforming energy systems too.” Sure, AI can help optimize grids and speed up the clean energy transition, but will the tech giants get the low-carbon power they need, or will they end up leaning on gas to keep the lights on? The real question is: can innovation in energy match the pace of innovation in AI, or will one always outstrip the other...?

Could AI ignite a power crisis???

3. Shift happens

The financial services industry finds itself at a crucial crossroads, facing uncertainty amid geopolitical instability, shifting policies, and rapid technological change. Recent chatter at the World Economic Forum highlighted that 35% of CEOs see geopolitical instability as their biggest hurdle, while 38% of global CEOs calling emerging tech a top disruptor. But despite all the hype around AI and digital assets, only 9% of firms feel they're really ahead of the curve. With five generations in the workforce, financial firms are also grappling with changing expectations. As Global Financial Services Leader and EMEIA Financial Services Regional Managing Partner Omar Ali writes, “In the face of rapid transformation, those who adapt with purpose will not just survive but thrive.” To stay ahead, firms must remain flexible, invest strategically in tech, and keep an eye on shifting values to win in 2025…?

Navigating financial services in 2025: Hot topics from the World Economic Forum?

?4. Trust issues

This year’s World Economic Forum was all about "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age," but let’s be real — it’s tough to collaborate when there’s a lack of trust. Especially in areas like tax and technology, where confidence is key. Global Vice Chair - Tax Marna Ricker writes, "True transformation begins when trust is built into the foundation of technology. Only then can collaboration flourish, unlocking new opportunities for businesses and society.” That’s where GenAI comes in. When used responsibly, it helps tax teams keep up with ever-changing regulations, manage mountains of data, and even tackle the talent gap. According to EY, 87% of tax professionals say GenAI boosts their efficiency, while 69% know they need a solid governance framework to keep things in check. The trick? GenAI + human expertise. When combined, it can smooth out compliance wrinkles, boost transparency, and build the trust needed to power up collaboration in the Intelligent Age.?

How technology is key to shaping the tax function’s future with confidence

5. What’s a board to do?

AI remains a hot topic, and CEOs are all in — 99% are investing to keep up, driven by the fear of falling behind. But here’s the catch: 68% of companies are stuck in the AI fast lane, unsure how to hit the gas due to all the unknowns. Legal risks? 77% are sweating it. Cybersecurity? 75% are losing sleep. So, what’s a board to do? Well, they’re caught in the middle, trying to be the innovation drivers and the safety net. The solution? Nail AI governance, encourage a culture of safe failure, and get the right tech talent on board. Will your board be the one setting the pace or scrambling to catch up??

How boards can confidently steer an AI-enabled future??

If you do one thing:?

Use AI to dive into something new.?

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