Risk Managers Named AI Top Long-Term Threat
A new industry survey highlights that corporate risk professionals now view artificial intelligence as their biggest hurdle.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence
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The 2026 Global Risk Manager Survey revealed that AI is the primary concern for risk practitioners over the next two to five years. While fears regarding uninsurable business risks have declined overall, nearly half of respondents identify AI as the least adequately managed threat.
Why it matters
As risk managers become more involved in corporate strategy, their shifting focus toward AI reflects a broader struggle to balance technological integration with organizational security. The findings underscore a disconnect between the rapid adoption of new tools and the maturity of current risk governance frameworks.
The survey of 1,329 practitioners across 79 countries found that 46% view AI as the least adequately managed risk. Meanwhile, 36% report that geopolitical uncertainty remains poorly managed, with only 14% of organizations utilizing dedicated governance for such risks.
The players
Federation of European Risk Management Associations
This is a professional organization representing risk managers across Europe that conducts periodic research on global business vulnerabilities.
The details
Organizations are increasingly responding to these challenges by adjusting insurance buying patterns, strengthening loss prevention tactics, and securing longer-term agreements. Currently, 92% of risk managers report direct involvement in corporate strategy, with 55% specifically focused on developing strategic risk responses.
Timeline
The 2026 Global Risk Manager Survey was released on October 5, 2026.
The rate of respondents fearing uninsurable risks was 41% in 2022.
The fear rate for uninsurable risks peaked at 53% in 2024.
The fear rate for uninsurable risks dropped to 37% in 2026.
The Tech Race
The 2026 Global Risk Manager Survey marks a significant shift in corporate priorities as traditional insurance concerns give way to digital-age unknowns. This report updates the industry trajectory by validating the transition from physical asset protection to the governance of algorithmic and AI-driven business risks.
As businesses prioritize AI governance, users and employees may face stricter internal policies and evolving compliance requirements for digital tools. These institutional changes aim to stabilize business continuity but may impact how quickly teams can adopt new software or automated workflows.
The takeaway
Risk managers are increasingly positioning themselves as strategic architects rather than just insurance buyers to tackle complex technological threats. Professionals should prioritize developing internal governance models to match the rapid pace of digital transformation within their firms.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving regulatory and security landscape, explore our Artificial Intelligence section.
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Are you confident that most large organizations are managing current economic risks well?
