Most chief executive officers report that AI investments have not yet delivered measurable revenue growth or cost savings. A global survey of 4,454 CEOs shows 56 % see no financial impact, while only a small minority experience both higher revenue and reduced expenses. The findings highlight a widening gap between AI spending and real profit generation.
Survey Highlights Key AI Performance Gaps
The PwC survey reveals three recurring obstacles preventing CEOs from realizing AI returns:
- Clear roadmaps – Without a multi‑year AI strategy, projects remain isolated pilots.
- Adequate investment – Funds are often unevenly allocated, under‑funding data management and talent pipelines.
- Integrated deployment – Companies embedding AI across products, services, and decision‑making are two‑ to three‑times more likely to see both revenue growth and cost reductions.
Implications for Investors and Market Dynamics
Investors may exercise caution as the disconnect between AI spend and financial outcomes persists. Companies that fail to move beyond pilot phases risk losing competitive advantage, while boards are likely to prioritize robust data ecosystems and cross‑functional AI governance.
Investor Caution
Market participants are watching AI‑centric IPOs and venture rounds closely, wary of an emerging performance gap.
Competitive Pressure
Firms that embed AI throughout their operations are poised to outpace peers still stuck in experimental stages.
Strategic Recalibration
Transforming quickly enough to keep pace with AI is the top concern for 42 % of CEOs, signaling a shift toward stronger AI foundations.
Executive Perspective
“A small group of companies are already turning AI into measurable financial returns, whilst many others are still struggling to move beyond pilots,” said Mohamed Kande, PwC’s global chairman. “That gap is starting to show up in confidence and competitiveness, and it will widen quickly for those that don’t act.”
Path Forward for AI Profitability
Organizations that develop clear AI roadmaps, allocate sufficient resources, and integrate AI across business functions are expected to close the performance gap in the coming months. Until then, more than half of global CEOs remain waiting for AI to evolve from a headline‑grabbing technology into a reliable profit engine.
