We keep our ear to the ground for the interesting stats, insights and discussion points you need to feel in the know and shape the future with confidence.
1. Can Europe win back investors?
Foreign direct investment in Europe has hit its lowest point in nearly a decade — down 5% overall, with job creation falling 16%. Nearly 4 in 10 businesses have delayed or scaled back their European plans, citing high energy costs, slow growth, and geopolitical uncertainty. But the outlook isn’t all bleak. EY’s latest survey of 500 global executives points to a clear path forward — one that includes smarter regulation, targeted investment in AI and green tech, and a renewed focus on talent and innovation. The message? Confidence can be rebuilt, but only with bold, coordinated action.
How can Europe act now to create advantage from adversity?
2. Startup state of mind
In a region known more for resilience than risk-taking, entrepreneurs across Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe are leaning into innovation — despite uncertainty, talent shortages, and red tape in the mix. Nearly 60% are investing in IT upgrades, and AI is gaining serious traction, especially in Türkiye and the Baltics. While 85% are feeling the pinch from rising costs and bureaucracy still frustrates 65% expect revenue growth in the next year. With governments offering tax breaks and digital grants, momentum is quietly building. From family businesses to fast-moving startups, the region’s entrepreneurs are showing that progress doesn’t need perfect conditions — just strategy, persistence, and a willingness to adapt…
The rise of entrepreneurship in Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe
3. AI or die
Despite all the talk about the power of AI and data, most governments are still stuck in the slow lane when it comes to real adoption. Sure, they know AI can improve public services, reduce fraud, and make things faster and smarter for everyone but only a small chunk are actually putting it into action. The longer governments delay, the more they fall behind — and the harder it becomes to catch up. The takeaway here is to be bold. Start with a clear mission, build the right foundations, and go beyond buzzwords. Here are a group of “pioneers” who are doing it right…
How data analytics and AI in government can drive greater public value
4. Connected but exposed
AI and automation are transforming operations at lightning speed, unlocking huge business potential. But as organizations connect more industrial equipment and systems, they’re also opening the door to serious cyber risks they often overlook. Operational technology (OT) wasn’t built for this level of connectivity, making it a prime target for attacks that could disrupt everything from manufacturing to supply chains. The truth is, many organizations aren’t ready for the challenges this digital transformation brings. How can Europe act now to create advantage from adversity? Organizations need to rethink cybersecurity — not just for IT, but for OT too. The question is, are you ready to close the gap before it’s too late?
Is cybersecurity embedded in your OT digital transformation?
5. Green lights ahead
Extreme E proves fast cars and green goals mix well. This season, 80% of their energy came from green hydrogen — no small feat in remote locations. They achieved zero waste to landfills and swapped a carbon-heavy ship for greener freights. Beyond emissions, they helped create a marine sanctuary in Uruguay and cooled salmon habitats in Scotland by planting more than 3,000 trees. With a clear carbon footprint of 4,618 tCO₂e — this is the equivalent of 11,263 economy-class flights — Extreme E leads in transparency and innovation. For anyone watching how sport can drive sustainability, this series is racing ahead — and making every lap count…
Extreme E and EY launch Season 4 Sustainability Report
If you do one thing:
Move beyond buzzwords and get to the substance.
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