Business Forum • 6 February, 2026 at 12:33 PM
Forvis Mazars Group has released its annual C-suite barometer showing that 92% of global executives expect growth in 2026, despite ongoing economic uncertainty.
The survey of over 3,000 executives across 40 countries reveals that business adaptability has become the key to success.
Technology transformation leads strategic priorities, with 39% of companies focusing on IT transformation and 24% adapting to competition and tariffs. Three-quarters of businesses now have a tech transformation strategy in place, with 94% of leaders expecting their technology investments to increase profits within one year.
"Uncertainty is now the norm, but leaders are responding with adaptability, bold investments and a focus on technology-driven transformation," said Mark Kennedy, Partner and Chief Clients & Markets Officer at Forvis Mazars Group. "Success in 2026 will depend as much on adaptability as on ambition."
Romanian executives show 86% growth expectations for 2026, though this represents a slight decline from 90% in 2025. Local challenges include economic uncertainty affecting 54% of businesses and rising energy costs impacting 44%. Only 54% of Romanian executives report rising revenues, down from 82% last year.
"Romanian executives are walking a careful line - pushing for innovation while making sure their organisations remain resilient in the face of economic pressures," said Dino Ebneter, Country Leader at Forvis Mazars in Romania. Despite challenges, 65% of Romanian businesses are increasing financial and human capital investment to support transformation efforts.