How the Global Risks Report 2025 Findings Could Impact U.S. Businesses
We recently shared the 2025 Global Risk Report from the World Economic Forum – a report that provides an in-depth analysis of the global risk landscape in 2025 and how decision makers should prepare for it. Today we want to take a closer look at how three of their key findings could have significant implications for US businesses. While these findings may not seem directly linked, they present complex challenges that companies must prepare for in the coming year.
Click here to download the 2025 Global Risk Report.
1. Underestimated Short-Term AI Risks
The 2025 Global Risk Report highlighted that, while experts acknowledge the potential vulnerabilities in adverse AI outcomes, for many this remains a long-term concern and a low short-term risk. This suggests that businesses may not be adequately prepared for the immediate risks that AI poses and how these risks could affect their organization – such as misinformation, deepfake fraud, and disruption in the workplace.
By underestimating the immediate need for action, US businesses could find themselves vulnerable to cyberattacks, which not only affects the integrity of their systems and data but can also have an adverse impact on brand reputation. Companies that rely on AI to carry out core functions within their business such as decision-making, customer service or content generation must ensure they have safeguards in place to mitigate these risks. Additionally, AI-driven automation may lead to workforce restructuring, requiring businesses to invest in employee training and ethical AI governance to maintain trust and operational stability.
2. Changing Economic Risks and Business Strategy
It may be surprising to learn that concerns about inflation and economic downturns have decreased in the risk rankings, being replaced instead by issues such as crime, illicit economic activity and the concentration of strategic resources. This indicates that while businesses may feel more confident about inflation control in 2025, they should be wary of their vulnerability to other economic risks.
These new risks could disrupt supply chains, affect the operational capabilities of organizations, and impact corporate security, requiring businesses to strengthen fraud prevention measures. Robust security procedures that protect people and assets as well as physical business premises are a critical measure that all US businesses should be adopting in 2025. Click here to learn more about protecting your business from threats in 2025.
3. Overlooked Risks of Domestic Unrest
The report suggests that while state-based conflicts are widely recognized, internal unrest and civil conflicts are not given the same level of attention. However, history has shown that political and social instability can significantly impact businesses, affecting consumer confidence, employee safety, and operational continuity.
U.S. businesses should closely monitor societal trends, particularly those related to labor strikes, protests, and policy shifts. Companies with a large workforce must be prepared for potential disruptions due to social movements or regulatory changes. Implementing strong corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies and clear crisis management plans can help mitigate risks associated with domestic instability.
The Global Risks Report 2025 serves as a reminder that emerging threats are often underestimated until they become urgent. By proactively addressing AI risks, adjusting economic strategies, and preparing for potential domestic unrest, U.S. businesses can stay ahead of these evolving challenges and build resilience in an unpredictable global landscape.
