Economic Downturns and Tech Challenges Top Concerns for Australian Executives
Economic Downturns and Tech Challenges Top Concerns for Australian Executives
0
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
Australian business leaders are increasingly worried about the potential for an economic downturn, which they have identified as the most significant threat facing the country in the next couple of years.
This insight comes from a wide-reaching survey conducted by the World Economic Forum, highlighting key concerns in the business sector.
The survey also ranks disruption to a critical supply chain as the second most concerning risk, followed by threats to crucial infrastructure. Emerging frontier technologies, such as quantum computing, and a decline in health and well-being also feature prominently as areas of concern. These findings were derived from responses gathered from over 11,000 executives across 116 economies, in partnership with Zurich and Marsh McLennan.
In the context of G20 economies, an economic downturn emerged as the leading risk. Other major concerns include inadequate public services and social protections, lack of economic opportunity or unemployment, inflation, and the spread of misinformation and disinformation. The survey underscores a prevailing concern over economic stability, coupled with technological and infrastructural vulnerabilities.
David Wainwright, Zurich Australia’s chief risk officer, highlighted the cross-border nature of these risks, pointing out the universal concerns surrounding economic downturns. He also noted the increased attention towards technological and health-related risks, marking a departure from prior concerns, such as climate change and environmental issues.
Zurich Group's chief risk officer, Peter Giger, commented on the rapid advancements in technology that are dramatically altering the risk landscape. He emphasised the emerging significance of misinformation, particularly as it ranks among the top five concerns in G20 countries. Notably, for the first time, Australian business leaders have identified negative outcomes from cutting-edge technologies as one of their top risks.
Giger further remarked on the overall strain on social infrastructure and the challenge posed by rapid AI innovation, which is currently outpacing regulatory frameworks. He warned of the precarious position many countries find themselves in, where the political and economic environments leave little room for error.
Published:Tuesday, 9th Dec 2025 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
In a strategic move to bolster its customer support offerings, Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has announced the establishment of Isuzu Financial Services Australia (IFSA). This initiative marks the first time the Isuzu Group has founded a leasing company outside Japan, reflecting a significant commitment to the Australian market. - read more
Chinese automotive giant Geely Auto has announced its entry into the Australian light commercial vehicle market through its Farizon brand, specialising in electric commercial vehicles. This move signifies a notable expansion of electric vehicle (EV) offerings in Australia's commercial sector. - read more
The Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) has partnered with Volvo Group to introduce a $70 million financing package aimed at accelerating the adoption of heavy-duty battery electric trucks (HD BEVs) in Australia. This initiative seeks to address the substantial transport-related emissions by facilitating the transition to cleaner vehicle technologies. - read more
Australia's marine insurance landscape has welcomed a significant new player with the launch of Marinex Underwriting. This specialised marine underwriting agency aims to address the complex insurance needs of the Australian marine sector, offering tailored solutions backed by global specialty insurance distributor Amwins. - read more
For many Australian consumers, buying a property is one of the most significant financial decisions they'll make. Navigating the home loan landscape effectively is crucial to easing the journey toward property ownership. - read more
When embarking on the journey of homeownership, many Australians find themselves navigating the complex world of home loans. On the surface, the mortgage process might seem straightforward. You find a home, secure a loan, and make payments until it’s fully paid off. However, the reality is more intricate, involving various fees and charges that can quickly add up. - read more
Refinancing a home loan is a process many Australian homeowners consider at some point. But what exactly does it mean? In simple terms, refinancing involves replacing your existing mortgage with a new one—usually with different terms. Homeowners often look into refinancing for several reasons, whether it’s to secure a lower interest rate, consolidate debts, or switch from a fixed to a variable rate (or vice versa). - read more
When you're in the market for a new home, finding the right loan can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the mortgage. Comparing home loans is crucial for Australian buyers looking to secure the best possible deal. With various options available, understanding the finer details can make a significant difference in your financial journey. - read more
Knowledgebase
Leverage: The use of borrowed funds to increase the potential return of an investment, but which also increases potential risk.
