CEOs Increase AI Spending

Despite less than half of current AI projects generating returns exceeding their costs, 68% of chief executives are planning to increase AI spending in 2026. A Teneo survey of over 350 public-company CEOs revealed that AI is most successfully used in marketing and customer service, while its application in security, legal, and HR faces challenges.

The survey also highlighted a difference in expectations between institutional investors and large-company CEOs. 53% of institutional investors anticipate returns on AI investments within six months, whereas 84% of large-company CEOs believe it will take longer than six months. The majority of CEOs anticipate AI to increase headcount in both entry-level and senior leadership positions.