According to a recent study from Vistra, a global provider of business services, the risk of AI implementation in U.S. businesses has emerged as a top concern for executives.
As a result, 50% of respondents now believe that implementing AI is their biggest business risk, ahead of concerns about economic downturn (48%) and supply chain issues (43%).
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“AI Anxiety” refers to the growing fear of implementing new technologies while ensuring data protection.
Almost half (49%) of companies using external AI solutions identify data security as their most pressing risk, and 55% cite data protection as their biggest compliance issue.
Market volatility is contributing to faster investment decisions, with 66% of those surveyed saying uncertainty allows them to act faster, and more than a third saying this acceleration is “notable.”
The survey shows that 84% of companies are prioritizing technology and digital transformation, with a particular focus on implementing AI.
Workforce considerations will also be influenced by developments in AI. According to the survey, 45% of executives say they would consider leaving if their current employer lags in AI adoption, and 30% report that “delays will impact long-term loyalty” to their company.
Research shows that 72% are using AI for strategic decision-making, and only 1% have not deployed any form of AI.
The most popular applications include identifying cybersecurity threats (73%), supply chain risk management (69%), and automating processes for regulatory compliance (67%).
Looking ahead, 85% of participants expect AI adoption to be critical to growth over the next three years.
Strategic change is also evident in the supply chain. 59% of respondents said they are reorienting their supply chain activities to Latin America, a preferred alternative to China, followed by Southeast Asia at 57%.
EMEA was chosen by 22%, pointing to changes in sourcing strategies.
When it comes to regulatory issues, 28% of executives cite new policies such as ESG requirements, financial regulations and AI directives as their main concerns. Tariffs and trade policy were a close second at 27%. Uncertainty over trade is also leading to employment adjustments, with 32% pointing to hiring freezes or reductions in the size of their workforce.
“AI has moved from a promising innovation to a competitive determinant,” said Jim Lee, executive vice president of Vistra Americas. “Despite the increased compliance and data risks that AI poses, companies now view falling behind in AI as a greater threat than an economic slowdown or regulatory change.”
“As leaders navigate significant geopolitical uncertainties, AI is fundamental to strategic decision-making, reshaping the way companies manage risk and regulatory complexity and identify growth opportunities. What we are witnessing is a paradox of progress where AI is simultaneously growing fearful and ambitious. Companies fear what AI can do if mismanaged, but they are even more afraid of being left behind.”
