Winter 2024 Fortune/Deloitte CEO Survey Insights has been saved
Perspectives
Winter 2024 Fortune/Deloitte CEO Survey Insights
Increased optimism with an eye on global events
The majority of CEOs surveyed in the Winter 2024 survey describe 2023 in one word: challenging–which has topped the list for the fourth year in a row. Over the next 12 months, they also see reasons for significantly increased optimism regarding their organizations and the global economy. A majority of CEOs (65%) surveyed rank geopolitical instability as the top expected external business disruptor, while regulation, inflation, financial/market instability, and talent shortages are also expected to drive headwinds for CEOs.
Although optimistic about their organizations, many CEOs (45%) say they are prioritizing measures to optimize operating costs in order to drive organizational growth. Increasingly, they are turning to Generative AI (GenAI) and new technologies to do that. The majority of CEOs (57%) surveyed say they plan to embed new technologies in their business model to find opportunities for growth, and many (56%) have already leveraged GenAI to increase efficiencies. Read on for more highlights from the most recent Fortune/Deloitte CEO Survey.
Key Takeaways
Optimistic Outlook
The majority of CEOs are optimistic about the performance of their companies and industries, while optimism around the global economy also continues to rise; they believe the US Federal Reserve will reduce interest rates by the fall.
Disruptors
Geopolitics are at the top of CEOs’ minds this year, while they still expect disruption from regulation, inflation, other sources of financial/market instability, labor and skills shortages, and crises of trust.
Generative AI
Adoption rates continue to increase as CEOs look beyond efficiencies and automation to Generative AI capabilities to find new insights, reduce operational costs, and speed up innovation.
People, purpose, and climate
CEOs are focused on climate/ sustainability and DEI reporting along with workplace measures like employee resource groups and individual sustainability actions.
CEOs are carefully balancing near-term growth and long-term transformation priorities. Though in its early days, Generative AI presents an important opportunity to increase efficiencies, optimize costs, and accelerate innovation. At the same time, they are cautiously optimistic about the global economy, its impact on their industry and the performance of their organizations.
— Jason Girzadas, CEO, Deloitte US
About the survey
107 CEOs representing more than 20 industries participated in this Fortune/Deloitte CEO Survey. 95% of respondents are from organizations based in the United States, and the remainder are from organizations based outside of the United States.
Fielded February 13-23, 2024, the survey consisted of 14 questions that explore market outlook and predictions, Generative AI, and business priorities. Surveyed CEOs include Fortune 500 CEOs, Global 500 CEOs, and select public and private CEOs in the global Fortune community. This Winter 2024 survey is the twelfth edition of the Fortune/Deloitte CEO survey series. Information on previous surveys is available here.
This publication contains general information only and Deloitte is not, by means of this publication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice or services. This publication is not a substitute for such professional advice or services, nor should it be used as a basis for any decision or action that may affect your business. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your business, you should consult a qualified professional advisor. Deloitte shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this publication.
Explore past editions of the Fortune/Deloitte CEO Survey
Get in touch
Brett Weinberg | Deloitte US
Managing Director | Chief Executive Program
Recommendations
Seven Priorities for Today’s CEO
Big issues and opportunities facing today’s leaders
Strategy Now
Agile, Inclusive, Resilient, Bold
