Belgian companies concerned about geopolitical instability and cybercrime
Cybercrime, geopolitical instability and digital transformation are the biggest concerns for executives and working Belgians this year. Economic uncertainty is also considered important by those surveyed, according to the Trendwatch 2024 report by the Federation of Enterprises in Belgium (FEB) and Ageas.
As in the past two years, cybersecurity remains a top priority for Belgian managers and employees in 2024, according to the study. Last year, citizens forwarded nearly 10 million messages to the cybersecurity service Safeonweb, which identified 1.2 million suspicious links.
Global geopolitical tensions are also having an impact on Belgian businesses, including conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, and the trade war between the US and China. "The unpredictability of international relations is forcing companies to adapt and develop strategies to manage these risks," the FEB said in a press release.
"The unpredictability of international relations is forcing companies to adapt"
The breakthrough of artificial intelligence, with tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini, is also seen as an important trend, according to the study. Environmental pollution rose from ninth to eighth place in this year's ranking. In contrast to executives, employees say they are very concerned about high energy prices and inflation.
In addition, the focus on traffic congestion has declined in recent years, as the rise of hybrid working has led to a greater focus on work-life balance.
The Trendwatch is an annual survey. This year, 722 managers and 1,300 working people were surveyed.
© BELGA PHOTO JASPER JACOBS
Related news
