U.S. CEOs Cite Economic Uncertainty as Primary Concern for 2026

As 2026 approaches, a significant survey conducted by The Conference Board reveals that economic uncertainty is the foremost concern for U.S. CEOs, with 43% identifying it as their top threat. This contrasts with global counterparts, where only 29% share this sentiment. The survey included over 1,700 executives, including more than 750 CEOs from North America, Europe, and Asia. Following uncertainty, 35% of U.S. CEOs expressed concern about the risk of an economic downturn or recession, while globally, 36% of CEOs ranked a downturn as their primary concern.

Fox Business (website)US CEOs Dub Uncertainty as a Top 2026 Economic Fear, Survey SaysCEOs in the US twice as likely to ‘de-prioritise’ sustainability

Dana M. Peterson, chief economist at The Conference Board, noted that U.S. CEOs are navigating a complex landscape of pressures impacting profits and growth. Despite these challenges, there is an emphasis on innovation, with many CEOs focusing on revamping their business models to adapt to changing conditions.

CEOs in the US twice as likely to ‘de-prioritise’ sustainability

The survey also indicated a notable shift in priorities regarding sustainability. Approximately 38% of U.S. CEOs stated that sustainability investments are "not a priority" for their businesses in 2026, a stark contrast to only 20% of global CEOs expressing the same view. Among those U.S. CEOs who are investing in sustainability, 17% are concentrating on circular economy initiatives, while others are focusing on the sustainable use of resources and transitioning to renewable energy.

CEOs in the US twice as likely to ‘de-prioritise’ sustainabilityFox Business (website)

Cybersecurity emerged as a significant concern, with 54% of U.S. CEOs identifying cyberattacks as a top threat, compared to 47% of their global peers. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is a priority for many CEOs, with 46% of U.S. executives emphasizing the need to improve data quality and quantity to measure return on investment (ROI) from AI initiatives. This focus on ROI from AI is echoed globally, although a smaller percentage, 33%, of global CEOs share this priority.

CEOs in the US twice as likely to ‘de-prioritise’ sustainability

Despite the optimism surrounding potential growth through innovation and AI investments, some critics argue that the increasing focus on economic uncertainty and cybersecurity may detract from long-term sustainability goals. The declining priority of sustainability among U.S. CEOs raises concerns about the commitment to addressing climate change and environmental issues.

CEOs in the US twice as likely to ‘de-prioritise’ sustainability

The Conference Board's findings reflect a broader sentiment among U.S. CEOs regarding the economic landscape. Peterson remarked, “Heading into 2026, CEOs are navigating converging pressures that are weighing on profits and growth.” This highlights the dual challenge of addressing immediate economic concerns while fostering innovation and sustainability.

CEOs in the US twice as likely to ‘de-prioritise’ sustainability

• “US ECONOMY EXPECTED TO GROW FASTER IN 2026 DESPITE STAGNANT JOB MARKET: GOLDMAN SACHS "Heading into 2026, CEOs are navigating converging pressures that are weighing on profits and growth.” — Dana M. Peterson, Chief Economist, The Conference Board

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In summary, as U.S. CEOs prepare for 2026, their primary focus remains on navigating economic uncertainty, with implications for sustainability and innovation strategies.

CEOs in the US twice as likely to ‘de-prioritise’ sustainability