June 20, 2025 • 3 min read
Introduction:
In today’s volatile business climate, leaders are rethinking growth strategies from the ground up. The 2025 CEO Study, published by IBM in partnership Oxford Economics, presents a data-rich roadmap for enterprise transformation. Drawing from the insights of 2,000 CEOs across 24 industries and 33 countries, the study outlines five essential leadership shifts. Among them, the role of proprietary data stands out: 72% of CEOs now view their internal data as foundational to maximizing generative AI investments.
Key Findings from the Report
72% of CEOs say proprietary data is essential to unlocking generative AI’s potential.
68% report that AI is actively transforming core aspects of their business.
64% are making early technology investments due to competitive pressure—even without full clarity on value.
61% believe that future competitive advantage hinges on having the most advanced generative AI capabilities.
65% now prioritize AI initiatives based on ROI rather than novelty or experimentation.
Only 16% of AI programs have scaled across the enterprise, despite widespread piloting.
31% of the global workforce will need reskilling within three years due to AI advancements.
66% of CEOs are narrowing their focus to deeper, more strategic external partnerships.
The CXF Take
This year’s CEO Study signals a pivotal shift in executive thinking. Organizations are moving beyond isolated innovation efforts and toward comprehensive, outcome-driven reinvention. The growing emphasis on proprietary data underscores a broader recognition that without a strong data foundation, generative AI cannot fulfill its promise.
Agentic AI—autonomous systems capable of predictive and adaptive action—is gaining traction fast. CEOs are betting on AI not just to automate, but to guide decisions, optimize operations, and create new business models. The most successful leaders are not waiting for certainty. They’re making confident moves backed by integrated data, agile leadership, and enterprise-wide alignment.
While experimentation with AI continues, business leaders are setting a higher bar: measurable impact. Investments are increasingly aimed at enhancing forecasting accuracy, increasing productivity, and improving customer and employee experiences in tangible ways. The shift isn’t about abandoning innovation—it’s about maturing it.
For customer experience professionals, the implications are clear. The line between operational efficiency and external experience is blurring. When internal systems are intelligent and integrated, the benefits ripple outward. AI isn’t just powering customer service—it’s transforming how businesses listen, adapt, and serve.
In a world where every decision counts, CEOs are choosing clarity, integration, and action. Data is no longer just an asset; it’s a strategic lever. And for organizations ready to move with intention, the road ahead is wide open.