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89% of business leaders in Spain expect a positive return on their investments in artificial intelligence before 2027, according to the global IBM CEO Study.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has ceased to be a future bet and has become a strategic focus today. This is reflected in the data from the latest IBM CEO Study, conducted by the Institute for Business Value, which gathered the opinions of over 2,000 CEOs worldwide. In Spain, the results are particularly optimistic: 89% of national CEOs believe their AI investments will yield tangible benefits in efficiency before 2027.
This enthusiasm translates into a clear trend toward the practical and measurable adoption of automation and artificial intelligence tools at the core of business operations. Beyond experimentation, organizations are prioritizing use cases with clear return on investment (ROI), focusing on cost reduction, process optimization, and data-driven decision-making.
The focus: efficiency first, expansion later
While growth and expansion remain medium-term objectives, 72% of Spanish CEOs expect a positive return in these areas, a figure somewhat lower than that associated with operational efficiency. This difference in focus reflects an economic reality where improving internal performance has become a strategic priority, especially in a context of global uncertainty.
Business leaders point out that automating repetitive tasks, reducing analysis time, and improving data quality are the key short-term benefits expected from AI.
Obstacles on the way: technological disconnection and resistance to change
However, the path to this efficiency is not without challenges. 57% of Spanish CEOs acknowledge that recent investments have created fragmented and difficult-to-scale technological environments. The lack of integration between systems, combined with the pressure to show quick results, hinders the effective implementation of new solutions.
Additionally, there is cultural resistance and a lack of collaboration between departments, factors that continue to act as structural brakes. Many leaders agree that success depends on fostering an environment that encourages experimentation and continuous learning, where leadership has the autonomy needed to make critical decisions.
The value of internal data as an engine for AI
Another key consensus from the report is the importance of having an integrated data architecture. 73% of Spanish CEOs consider it essential to eliminate organizational silos and build infrastructures that facilitate the flow of information. Only with quality, real-time data can AI deliver reliable and useful results.
This recognition has driven investments in more robust and collaborative data platforms, where access to information aligns with business strategic objectives.
Talent, automation, and new profiles
The lack of specialized AI talent remains a barrier for many organizations. To counteract this, 75% of CEOs in Spain plan to resort to automation, while 50% are already hiring new profiles related to this technology, positions that barely existed a year ago.
These hires reflect a structural change in the job market, forcing companies to adapt their human resources strategy and continuous training.
A balance between speed and sustainability
Despite the urgency not to fall behind—recognized by 58% of Spanish executives—most prefer a cautious approach. 68% believe it is better to advance with caution and solid criteria rather than take unnecessary risks.
This approach highlights a constant tension between the need for innovation and responsible change management, especially regarding disruptive technologies like generative AI or intelligent agents.
Conclusion: AI as a real lever for competitiveness
Looking toward 2027, the vast majority of CEOs in Spain not only expect to achieve a positive return on their AI investments but have already taken concrete steps to integrate this technology into the key processes of their companies. The challenge now is not whether to adopt AI, but how to do so effectively, measuring impact and ensuring that enthusiasm translates into sustainable results.
Far from being a trend, artificial intelligence is solidifying as a central instrument for operational efficiency, business resilience, and future innovation. The clock is ticking toward 2027, and companies that can move with vision and solvency will make the difference.