Unlocking AI's potential: A global perspective on trust, innovation and impact

      AI has the immense potential to transform lives, boost industries and help tackle some of the most pressing global issues. Fully realizing this potential requires collaboration, a collective commitment to responsible innovation and appropriate regulation with education programs and skills development initiatives to help individuals better harness AI’s power. 

      Led by the University of Melbourne in collaboration with KPMG, Trust, attitudes and use of Artificial Intelligence: A global study 2025, surveyed more than 48,000 people across 47 countries to explore the impact AI is having on individuals and organizations. It is one of the most wide-ranging global studies into the public’s trust, use, and attitudes towards AI to date.

      The findings reveal that AI adoption is on the rise, but trust remains a critical challenge - reflecting a tension between the benefits and risks:

      psychology

      The intelligent age has arrived

      66% of people use AI regularly, and 83% believe the use of AI will result in a wide range of benefits.

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      Trust remains a critical challenge

      Yet, trust remains a critical challenge: only 46% of people globally are willing to trust AI systems.

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      AI regulation

      There is a public mandate for national and international AI regulation with 70% believing regulation is needed.

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      AI at work

      Many rely on AI output without evaluating accuracy (66%) and are making mistakes in their work due to AI (56%).

       



      AI is one of the biggest technological advancements we see today, and building trust in it is crucial as it develops rapidly. Organizations need to take an active role in making sure AI is both reliable and embraced by all.

      Johanna Wind Wade

      AI Lead, KPMG Sweden

      Johanna Wind Wade


      This research, along with our perspective on the findings, offers a data-driven view of where leadership focus, strategic investment and workforce enablement are most urgently needed and how rising public expectations for strong AI regulation and governance need to be addressed. 

      For organizations to realize the true potential of AI and achieve a competitive advantage, there are four key actions that leaders should prioritize:

      • Transformational leadership
      • Enhancing trust
      • Boosting AI literacy
      • Strengthening governance

      By acting decisively to address these areas, organizations can not only mitigate current risks but also drive sustainable innovation and growth.

      Alongside the study, we’ve developed our perspective on the global study’s finding - The age of Intelligence – Empowering human-AI collaboration for a trusted future explores the implications for organizations and highlights how they can leverage these insights to harness the transformative power of AI.


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      The age of intelligence

      Empowering human-AI collaboration for a trusted future

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      Trust, attitudes and use of artificial intelligence

      A global study 2025


      Swedish insights on trust, attitudes and use of AI

      Three key takeaways from the report:

      • Swedes have relatively low trust in AI
      • A majority use AI in their work
      • Nearly half of the respondents indicate that their organization has established guidelines for AI usage.

      The survey highlights the complex landscape of AI perception in Sweden, revealing a balance of optimism and caution. While 59% of Swedes accept or approve of AI, only 36% express a willingness to trust it. The benefits of AI are acknowledged, with 76% expecting AI to deliver a range of advantages and 65% having personally experienced benefits from AI use. 

      In the workplace, AI adoption is prominent, with 64% of employees reporting its use in their organizations. The impact of AI on work is double-edged, enhancing efficiency and innovation for 39% while increasing workload and stress for 22%.


      The survey shows that Sweden's approach to AI is both optimistic and careful, recognizing its great benefits while stressing the importance of using it responsibly. With AI widely adopted in workplaces, there's a real opportunity to boost productivity and innovation. By focusing on ethical practices and smart management, AI can enhance our work and lives.

      Johanna Wind Wade

      AI Lead, KPMG Sweden



      Our insights and expertise

      We help clients harness the power and potential of AI. From strategy to implementation. Small steps to solving seemingly impenetrable problems. Underpinned by trust. 

      Embark on your AI journey with confidence through KPMG's tailored programs, developed to align with your specific needs and level of AI maturity.

      We believe in the transformative power of AI. And that it can only reach its full potential when it is paired with human expertise and ingenuity. Explore the latest trends and gain practical advice to stay ahead in your industry.

      Get in touch

      Johanna Wind Wade
      Johanna Wind Wade

      AI Lead

      KPMG in Sweden


      About the survey

      Data was collected in each country using representative research panels. Panel members were invited to complete the survey online, with data collected between November 2024 and mid-January 2025.

      The University of Melbourne research team, led by Professor Nicole Gillespie and Dr Steve Lockey, led the design, conduct, data collection, analysis, and reporting of this research.

      To cite this research and for full research findings and method details:

      Gillespie, N., Lockey, S., Ward, T., Macdade, A., & Hassed, G. (2025). Trust, Attitudes and Use of Artificial Intelligence: A Global Study 2025. The University of Melbourne and KPMG. DOI 10.26188/28822919

      This research was supported by the Chair in Trust research partnership between the University of Melbourne and KPMG Australia, with funding from KPMG International, KPMG Australia, and the University of Melbourne.