86% of Indian CEOs Prioritize AI & Emerging Tech as Key Investment Areas in 2025
Chennai, March 31, 2025 – Indian business leaders are doubling down on emerging technologies as the driving force for growth, far outpacing their global peers in confidence and investment strategies, according to the latest EY-Parthenon CEO Outlook Survey: Global Confidence Index 2025, India Findings. The report reveals that 86% of Indian CEOs have placed AI, digital transformation, and next-gen technologies at the core of their business strategy, with 90% optimistic about long-term investments in operations, M&A, and talent development.
Tech-Powered Growth: The CEO Playbook for 2025
With AI and automation reshaping industries, CEOs are taking a proactive approach to transformation, leveraging disruptive tech to streamline operations, enhance customer engagement, and drive sustainable growth. The EY survey highlights key investment priorities:
✅ 86% prioritize emerging technology investments to gain a competitive edge. ✅ 90% believe AI adoption and workforce upskilling will separate industry leaders from laggards. ✅ 67% are radically reimagining their business models to unlock new value streams. ✅ 42% focus on optimizing operations through digitalization to boost efficiency and productivity.
“Organizations that adopt a transformative mindset can turn disruption into opportunity,” said Rohan Sachdev, Consulting Leader, EY India. “CEOs are not just adapting to change; they are shaping the future by prioritizing technology, workforce readiness, and long-term resilience.”
M&A Boom: CEOs Eye Strategic Deals for Market Dominance
Unlike their global counterparts, Indian CEOs are bullish on mergers & acquisitions (M&A) and strategic partnerships as growth accelerators. 90% of Indian CEOs plan to execute transactions in the coming year, focusing on M&A, joint ventures, and strategic collaborations to expand market reach and optimize operations.
“With strong balance sheets and available financing, the case for strategic M&A has never been stronger in India,” said Amit Khandelwal, Managing Partner, Strategy and Transactions, EY India. “AI-led transformation is now a driving force behind corporate acquisitions, helping businesses enhance resilience and cost efficiency.”
The Road Ahead: Balancing Opportunity with Global Uncertainty
While the outlook remains highly optimistic, Indian CEOs are not ignoring global uncertainties. 96% identify geopolitical instability as a major concern, acknowledging its impact on business strategy and expansion plans. However, leaders who can navigate geopolitical risks, leverage technology, and drive transformation at scale are set to emerge as the industry titans of tomorrow.
Why This Matters:
✅ AI & emerging tech are now business essentials, not optional investments. ✅ Indian CEOs are leading the charge on digital transformation & M&A. ✅ Companies prioritizing workforce upskilling will gain a competitive advantage. ✅ Strategic agility in uncertain times is key to market leadership.
With India’s business landscape evolving rapidly, the CEOs who embrace innovation, adapt to change, and invest in the future will define the next era of growth. As AI and digital ecosystems take center stage, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for corporate transformation in India.
