New Delhi, Oct 15 (NationPress) The confidence exhibited by chief executive officers (CEOs) in India regarding their firms’ growth prospects has surged to 83 percent, an increase from 68 percent in 2024. This notable rise surpasses the global average, where CEO confidence increased from 76 percent in 2024 to 79 percent in 2025, according to a recent report released on Wednesday.

Despite a downturn in global economic confidence—from 80 percent in 2024 to 63 percent in 2025—Indian CEOs are concentrating on innovation, resilience, and long-term growth strategies. Instead of retreating, they are focusing on strategic investments in technology and talent to foster transformation.

“CEOs in India are showcasing renewed confidence in their organizations’ growth trajectories, demonstrating substantial resilience and strategic clarity,” noted KPMG India in its report.

Additionally, AI remains a key focus area for investment, with 57 percent of Indian CEOs intending to dedicate 10–20 percent of their budgets to AI in the upcoming year. Furthermore, a significant 73 percent anticipate returns on their AI investments within a span of one to three years.

As many as 86 percent believe their boards are adequately prepared to tackle the challenges of adopting advanced technologies, including utilizing data and AI for sustainable growth, the report emphasized.

“In a time of global unpredictability, Indian CEOs are exhibiting extraordinary resilience and a forward-thinking mindset. By embracing emerging technologies like AI, prioritizing cybersecurity, and advancing ESG objectives, they are confident in their ability to navigate complexities,” stated KPMG in India CEO Yezdi Nagporewalla.

Simultaneously, a renewed emphasis on talent strategy, reengineering roles, embedding innovation, and promoting continuous learning is enabling organizations to maintain competitiveness and remain prepared for future challenges, he added.

The integration of AI into organizational frameworks is identified as the most pressing challenge influencing short-term decision-making.

Factors related to technology, such as cybercrime, AI workforce readiness, and effective AI integration, consistently rank among the top determinants affecting three-year growth, the report highlighted.

Moreover, 91 percent of Indian CEOs advocate for investing in skill development and lifelong learning to secure future talent.

“74 percent recognize that readiness of the workforce for AI will significantly affect organizational success over the next three years,” the report stated.

This report was compiled based on insights from 125 business leaders across various industries and sectors.