The keys to corporate growth in 2026: AI, acquisitions and rapid transformation

The majority of executives surveyed in the EY-Parthenon  global survey expect revenue growth, higher productivity and improved profitability in 2026, but also expect operating costs to increase.  

“The key to growth, according to the surveyed decision-makers, is the effective application of artificial intelligence. The acquisition of the necessary AI and other technological capabilities can be ensured through acquisitions. In addition, company leaders must also emphasize training colleagues so that their employees not only access, but also understand and use the new tools. Those who are able to manage these areas in a coordinated manner can ensure their company’s long-term success competitiveness”

 –  emphasized Tamás Vékási, CEO of EY Hungary, in connection with the survey.

Artificial Intelligence: Return on Investment instead of Experimentation

The majority of respondents see this year as a turning point, as the use of AI can now move from the experimental phase to the practical application phase in many companies. The vast majority of those surveyed believe that AI will determine growth in the next two years, and according to one in three leaders, the technology can fundamentally transform the operation of companies.

However, implementation remains a serious challenge: according to the survey, AI has not yet fulfilled the expectations attached to it. This clearly shows how difficult it is to build real, working processes from experimental projects.

 Acquisitions and strategic partnerships: the transformation is accelerating

As CEOs strive to effectively apply AI solutions, acquisitions and strategic collaborations are becoming a driver of transformation, as they can access trusted knowledge and capabilities through acquisitions and business partnerships. To this end, one in two executives is planning a deal this year that will accelerate digitalization or growth. Nearly half of the research participants plan to accelerate the pace of investments – despite geopolitical and regulatory risks.

“The winners of the next period will be those who thoroughly rethink their investment strategy and focus on acquisitions that facilitate technological transformation, building a flexible, resilient portfolio that prepares the organization for the changes that are currently taking place and those expected in the future,” pointed out Dr. Iván Sefer, Partner at EY Hungary and Head of EY-Parthenon Hungary.

The power of expertise: trust is the foundation of transformation

The quality of the workforce continues to determine the success of AI strategies and transactions. The majority of decision-makers are confident in their ability to acquire and retain the professionals needed for digital transformation and organizational renewal.

This confidence is also reflected in the outlook for workforce retention. According to the research participants, AI investments do not reduce, but rather maintain or increase staffing needs, so the proportion of those who expect layoffs as a result of the changes has halved in the past year.