Azets Barometer

The Azets Barometer provides a clear view of the current business environment, based on the perspectives of senior leaders across the markets we serve. Drawing on primary research with over 1,500 business leaders across the UK, Ireland, and the Nordics, it tracks current sentiment around economic outlook, financial performance, and the challenges and opportunities shaping business decisions today.

The latest results point to confidence amidst complexity, as businesses balance ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainty with a renewed focus on growth, practical AI adoption, and operational agility.

Key findings from Q2 2026:

• 77% of business leaders are optimistic about the economic outlook over the next 12 months
• 82% rate their business's financial performance above average
• 38% rank operational agility as the single most important driver of resilience
• 73% say AI will be critical to their organisation's competitiveness within the next three years
• Automation and AI tools rank as the number one area leaders expect to increase investment in over the next 12 months, ahead of digitalisation and cybersecurity

Explore the findings in more detail using the interactive dashboard below or explore the full Q2 2026 report for the complete analysis, market-by-market insights, and expert commentary.