Davos 2025: Actionable Insights for Business Leaders

The World Economic Forum in Davos 2025 wrapped up last week. ?As the village turns back into a sleeping mode, the discussions by world leaders from governmental, business, think tanks and institutions echo around the world, and will impact people and businesses.

For corporate leaders, the insights shared are not just high-level global themes. They are directly relevant to how we lead, communicate, and adapt in this complex ‘stakeholder economy’.

Few of the outcomes that directly matter for business leaders:

1. Trust Is a foundation for progress

A striking theme this year was trust, or – more precise – the lack of it. According to Edelman’s Trust Barometer, two-thirds of people globally feel business leaders prioritize their own agendas over societal good. “We need to restore hope that the future can be better. And as businesses, our role is to bring economic optimism back,” said Dolf van den Brink, CEO of Heineken. Trust brings the world on a different, better level.

Corporate trust starts with transparency. Whether addressing supply chain challenges, AI adoption, or sustainability goals, honest and consistent communication with all stakeholders is crucial. Trust not only adds to more coherent world, it helps companies to grow, transform, protect and optimize their business performance.

2. AI: A double-edged sword.

Obviously, one of the dominating themes in Davos was AI, with leaders highlighting its potential to transform industries while cautioning about its disruptive risks. Brad Smith, President of Microsoft, warned, “If we don’t get skilling right, AI risks undermining trust even more.”

Leaders must adopt AI thoughtfully, ensuring it complements – not replaces – human talent. Equipping teams with the right skills and involving them in the transformation process is essential. Moreover, companies need be clear and transparent about their AI policy and journey, and how it will improve efficiency and benefit their stakeholders.

3. Agility is key in the changing global world order.

Global uncertainties – from the fragile ceasefire in the Middle East to economic competition between the U.S. and China,. From the NATO disruptions to the growing friendship between Russia, Iran, North-Korea and China. The political events seem far away, yet the effects are impacting our businesses every day. The tone-of-voice and actions from world leaders, impact the behaviors of all company’s stakeholders

Companies must navigate through an highly uncertain, increasingly assertive and fast-changing world. For CEOs, remaining close to the values and agility is key. Scenario planning, proactive communication, and close monitoring of global trends will help businesses stay resilient. As Volodymyr Zelenskyy reminded leaders, “There’s no ocean separating European countries from Russia.” ?

Moving Forward.

While global challenges as discussed in Davos may seem far away from our everyday work, contributing to solutions lie within our reach. Businesses are no longer just participants in the economy, they are active co-shapers of a rapidly evolving world. Taking a values-driven approach, doing ‘the right thing,’ and being transparent about it is no longer optional; it’s an essential part of building resilience and trust.

In this dynamic environment, meaningful communication becomes the bridge between uncertainty and opportunity. By fostering trust, embracing collaboration, and driving innovation, companies can turn challenges into growth opportunities. With clarity, purpose, and adaptability, businesses can not only navigate complexity successfully, but also inspire confidence and optimism among their stakeholders, helping shape a stronger and more sustainable future.