The report highlights growing concern among business leaders about risks and instability facing their companies, amid geopolitical tensions, new government regulations, technological transformations, AI adoption and redefined expectations from clients and partners. It also identifies key trends and opportunities for companies in areas including corporate governance, media, consumer trust, artificial intelligence, energy and sustainability.

Romanian business leaders face high risks but are the most optimistic in CEE regarding business resilience. Nearly half (47%) consider government regulations or policy changes as the main threat to their business in 2026, but all (100%) say they have confidence in their organisation's ability to adapt. Technology transformations and artificial intelligence are perceived as major challenges: 13% of leaders consider AI or technological changes as the biggest risk to their business, while over half (53%) express concern about ethical use, data protection and reputation impact.

Media and influence mechanisms are evolving. 40% of Romanian business leaders prioritise expanding their online presence, compared to 13% who consider traditional media the most effective channel. Short-form content, podcasts and content creators on digital platforms become essential tools for building credibility and authority. YouTube, LinkedIn and X are the preferred communication platforms, each with 27%, followed by Facebook and TikTok with 20% each.

Reputation influences business decisions: two-thirds of business leaders (67%) say reputation has direct impact on financial results, with key factors influencing trust including user reviews and comments. Energy and sustainability continue to generate significant pressures: nearly nine in ten business leaders (87%) indicate rising energy costs and supply volatility as the main operational challenge, while nearly half (47%) consider sustainability among corporate communication priorities, mainly in response to government policies.