How to inspire stakeholder confidence in times of uncertainty

For example, it would be useful to articulate how the company is investing in data analytics and other technological tools to augment its risk management capabilities and detecting, mitigating and responding to material risks. Insights into how the chief risk officer and other management members are collaborating to proactively manage risks before they escalate and how effective board risk oversight is enabled would also be valuable.

Invest differentially for the long term 

Many companies entered the new year prudently with a strong focus on capital conservation and cost management. However, companies cannot afford to let financial caution hold them back from necessary investments for long-term growth, such as those related to technology and sustainability. It is therefore necessary to communicate how the management is strategically reducing costs while reinvesting capital to develop capabilities to support growth.

Given how artificial intelligence (AI) — and its evolution into more advanced forms like generative AI and agentic AI — continues to capture the world’s imagination, stakeholders would be interested to understand how the company is harnessing the technology’s potential for growth and innovation. Stakeholders are also increasingly concerned about the ethical implications of AI technologies, prompting them to ask critical questions regarding the governance of AI use in the organization and decision-making.

Sustainability is another area that is material to creating long-term value and strength. It is hard to disagree that climate action is an enduring imperative. Given current geopolitical and financial headwinds, some companies may consider pausing sustainability-related investments in the short term. Those that keep their sights on the long game would set themselves apart from the competition. 

According to the 2024 EY Global Corporate Reporting Survey, stakeholders’ focus on nonfinancial drivers of value is growing. Over 80% of finance leaders surveyed in Singapore said they have noticed investors asking more questions in this area compared with two years ago. Those that show a commitment toward achieving sustainability goals and robust nonfinancial reporting and a roadmap for this are expected to be viewed more favorably by investors for their long-term strength.

Turn talent complexities into an advantage 

The talent landscape has seen significant shifts in recent years. Today, workplaces are seeing five generations working together. This adjacency highlights the differences in experiences, skills and outlook, just as technology is accelerating the pace of change and bringing different generations closer together. The opportunity to harness diverse skills and viewpoints across generations has never been greater, notwithstanding greater complexities. 

At the same time, technology like AI is morphing job roles and demanding new skill sets. This has led to a renewed focus on re-skilling, productivity and the company’s talent attraction and retention strategy in a competitive market. Stakeholders would be keen to understand the nexus between investments in technology transformation and workforce development or disruption as part of the overall business strategy.