1、KPMG Global KPMG.Make the Difference.private companyCEO OutlookForeword Private companies encompass every sector across the globe and include family businesses,family offices,and Emerging Giants(portfolio companies of private equity and venture capital funds).Many of these businesses are poised for
2、significant growth,with confident,entrepreneurial leaders.This optimism prevails despite an uncertain,volatile geopolitical and economic environment,notably tariffs and trade disputes,international conflicts,inflation and high interest rates,regulatory change,climate events and supply chain disrupti
3、on.For those players with an eye on mergers and acquisitions(M&A)and divestment,interest rate uncertainty casts doubt on credit availability.Their portfolio companies are also coping with inflationary costs that could impact their profitability.For family businesses/family offices,theres the added p
4、ressure of succession planning and leadership transition,and whether CEOs want to pass the business onto the next generation or pursue a sale.The 2025 CEO Outlook survey highlights how the CEOs of private companies are addressing the major economic,technological,geopolitical,regulatory,and talent ch
5、allenges.Artificial Intelligence(AI)has become a central issue,as a means to improve operational performance,boost innovation,and manage risks.AI is also a booming sector for investment,boosted by government incentives to attract AI start-ups across numerous sectors.However,AI also brings certain ch
6、allenges,such as concerns over trust,and return on investment(ROI).Private companies have long recognized the importance of sustainable growth,driven by strong governance,ethical practices and social responsibility with the reporting of non-financial metrics increasingly critical to investor confide