Industry event | From AI buzz to business value? How AI can improve business performance - 23 Apr 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) is widely expected to enhance business performance by reshaping competitive dynamics and redistributing market value. Companies investing in AI aim to secure strategic advantages, whether through cost leadership, product differentiation, or superior decision-making. Early adopters are assumed to gain a “data advantage,” enabling stronger market positioning. As AI adoption expands, firms that successfully integrate it into their strategies could disrupt industry leaders that fail to adapt.

Yet, despite its potential, most companies struggle to move beyond pilot projects and unlock AI’s full value. Adoption remains uneven, with limited evidence linking AI investments to long-term financial performance. Many organizations face significant technological and operational hurdles, making it difficult to sustain an AI-based edge. Even at a macro level, productivity growth has yet to reflect the surge in AI investment.

If AI is the key to competitive advantage, why do so few firms see measurable returns? What separates successful AI adopters from those failing to translate investment into performance gains? And how can leaders ensure AI delivers lasting strategic impact rather than just short-term experimentation?

This seminar explored why AI’s impact remains elusive and how companies can overcome barriers to achieve real competitive advantages. The seminar featured a combination of research-driven insights and practical discussions, where we will present research findings and translate them into actionable strategies for business leaders.