AI investments set to surge in 2026; CEOs driving strategy: BCG report

Key Highlights

• It added that 97 per cent of organisations in India will continue investing in AI even if returns do not materialise in the next 12 months, compared to a global average of 94 per cent.
• “India’s AI story is one of resilience and rising ambition — 88 per cent of Indian leaders are optimistic about AI’s ability to deliver positive business returns.
• About 97 per cent of Indian organisations say they will continue investing in AI even if returns do not materialise in the next 12 months,” said Nipun Kalra, India Leader – BCG X, BCG, adding that AI decision-making in India remains “more tech-led than business-led.” The report also highlighted a skilling gap, stating that only 36 per cent of the Indian workforce is currently skilled in AI, compared to 44 per cent globally.
• BCG CEO Christoph Schweizer said the surge in spending shows AI is now central to business strategy.
• “AI is no longer confined to IT or innovation teams; it’s reshaping strategy and operations from the top down with CEOs taking a leading role,” he said.