Firms boost AI spend but 2026 outlook rocky
Majority of businesses in the Asia-Pacific plan to increase spending on artificial intelligence (AI) in 2026 despite anticipating a volatile economic environment, as companies bet on the technology’s ability to drive revenue growth.
In a recent report, global professional services firm Accenture said 86 percent of organizations in the region expect to boost AI investments this year. Nearly two-thirds of executives said the technology will substantially or completely transform how their businesses operate.
This comes even as most businesses brace for a turbulent year, with 75 percent of Asia-Pacific business leaders anticipating a higher level of change in 2026.
Optimism around AI spending is largely driven by revenue expectations, with 76 percent of executives saying the technology is more valuable for growing profits than for reducing costs.
Business leaders see AI helping accelerate creativity in product and service innovation, grow revenues, open new market opportunities, as well as improve operational efficiency and cut costs.
Accenture’s report, however, showed that executives’ optimism around AI does not necessarily trickle down to employees.
While 78 percent of executives believe AI is already delivering business impact, only 59 percent of employees agree.
Accenture also found that workforce adaptation remains a low priority for many leaders. Fewer than 30 percent of executives said helping employees adjust to AI-driven change is a key focus.
