Investors Advocate Balanced AI and Workforce Investments, PwC Survey Finds

LONDON, UK, December 5, ​2024 – According to PwC 2024 ​Global Investor Survey, most global investors urge companies to focus on investments in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and their human workforce. More ​than 70 per cent of respondents rejected the idea that organizations should choose among themselves, stressing the importance of a balanced approach to future operations and ensuring the sustainability of the workforce.

The PwC survey, ​which surveyed more than 500 institutional investors around the world, found that 73% of respondents considered simultaneous investment in IA and labour development to be essential to long-term profitability. This trend is consistent with the ​growing ​concerns of stakeholders about the social consequences of disproportionate AI dependence without ​adequate support for employees.

According to ​the survey, investors were more interested in environmental, ​social and governance considerations (ESG), and 65% of respondents indicated that GSE ​strategies directly influence their investment decisions. Specifically, stakeholders are asking for better information on investments in the workforce, such as training initiatives and fair wage policies.

Artificial intelligence remains a double-edged sword for ​businesses. While 68% of investors recognized AI’s ​potential to increase ​productivity ​and decision-making, 59% cautioned against reputational risks associated ​with excessive redundancies or insufficient ​recovery ​programs. PwC noted that companies that do not ​address these concerns could face long-term scepticism by ​investors and a decline in market values.

The ​survey also highlighted the ​role of regulation in developing investor expectations. As governments around the world have more stringent oversight of IA, 74% of ​respondents have advocated ​corporate compliance with ​IA ethical standards. These results highlight the growing need for companies to move ​effectively towards the intersection between innovation and responsibility.

“Companies that cover technology and human ​capital strategies ​are more likely to gain investor confidence,” said Bob Moritz, PwC’s global ​president. He stressed the need for leadership “to think holistically about creating long-term value beyond short-term cost considerations.”

The global investor ​survey of 2024 ​PwC marks a crucial moment, ​highlighting the changing expectations ​of stakeholders who need socially responsible and technologically adaptable corporate strategies. The ​companies that serve these calls are ready to ensure a competitive advantage in an increasingly ​conscious investment landscape.