The private company perspective: KPMG 2025 Global CEO Outlook

The 2025 CEO Outlook survey presents insights into how private companies are addressing major economic, technological, geopolitical, regulatory and talent challenges. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a central issue, as a means to improve operational performance, boost innovation, and manage risks. AI is also a booming sector for investment, boosted by government incentives to attract AI start-ups across numerous sectors.

In an unpredictable world, this report provides essential insights to help CEOs stay informed, anticipate challenges, and seize emerging opportunities. Download the report to explore these strategies and get a detailed look at the key trends shaping the sector in 2025 and beyond.

KPMG 2025 Global Private Company CEO Outlook

Explore the issues that matter most to private companies

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For New Zealand’s private companies, geopolitical uncertainty and trade disruption are now part of the operating environment. The advantage lies in agility – the ability to pivot into new markets, respond quickly to regulatory change and back confident decisions without the constraints faced by larger, listed organisations.

Jon Holmes

National Managing Partner, Private Enterprise

KPMG New Zealand

Key findings

30%

say they expect their organisation to pursue ‘high-impact’ M&A opportunities.

48%

plan to explore new market or regional opportunities.

49%

are prioritising compliance and reporting standards to align with investor and regulatory demands.

Hear from our leaders

It’s encouraging to see private company CEOs expecting faster returns from their AI investments than publicly listed peers. Generational change requires courage, vision and discipline – and private business leaders are increasingly taking that approach. This should give shareholders confidence to invest in the AI journey.

Brent Love

Partner - On Farm Agribusiness

KPMG New Zealand

New Zealand CEOs are confident but highly disciplined, operating in short decision cycles as inflation and policy uncertainty persist. Success now hinges on timing, risk management and execution. With cyber firmly recognised as a core business issue, complacency is a risk leaders can’t afford.

Dylan Shell

Partner, Private Enterprise

KPMG New Zealand

Why download the report?

By downloading the 2025 Private Company CEO Outlook report, you’ll unlock unique perspectives on:

The most pressing risks and emerging opportunities shaping private companies.
How CEOs are responding to fast-moving geopolitical and economic shifts.
The impact of generative AI, ESG priorities, and workforce transformation on the future of energy.

Enhance your strategic planning with expert analysis and actionable insights from CEO’s of leading private companies.

Download the report