Biopharma Executives Have Published Industry Outlook Survey
The inaugural survey reveals shifting capital confidence and views on AI among 81 senior biopharma executives.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Biotech
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BIO-Europe has released its inaugural Biopharma C-Suite Agenda Survey, capturing the perspectives of 81 senior executives on capital trends and regional attractiveness. The results highlight how industry leaders are navigating ongoing investment constraints while eyeing future growth.
Why it matters
The survey captures a pivotal moment for the industry, balancing an appetite for increased M&A activity against the reality of investor risk aversion. It provides insight into how US policy uncertainty is currently influencing regional strategies for biopharma development.
The survey of 81 executives, including 50 CEOs, shows that 57% expect AI to improve R&D productivity within 12-24 months, though 22% believe the current impact of AI is overstated. Europe currently holds a dealmaking score of 2.8 out of 5.
The players
BIO-Europe
This organization hosts a major annual conference and facilitates partnerships within the global biotechnology industry.
The details
More than half of the respondents stated that US policy uncertainty has increased the attractiveness of Europe for building and partnering. Meanwhile, 75% of executives expect an increase in partnering and M&A appetite over the coming 12 months as companies prepare to raise growth capital.
Timeline
October 7, 2026: BIO-Europe published the inaugural 2026 Biopharma C-Suite Agenda Survey.
November 9-11, 2026: The BIO-Europe 2026 conference will take place in Cologne.
2026-2027: This period marks the expected timeframe for increased oncology and ADC investment interest.
The Tech Race
This survey marks a strategic effort to formalize executive consensus on emerging trends like AI in drug discovery. It parallels shifts in how biopharma firms prioritize regional regulatory environments to secure capital, contrasting established reliance on US markets with emerging European opportunities.
The anticipated improvement in R&D productivity from AI could eventually shorten the development timelines for new medications and therapies. For stakeholders, the projected increase in M&A activity may signal upcoming shifts in corporate structure and potential growth opportunities in their investment portfolios.
The takeaway
The industry is showing cautious optimism regarding capital access despite ongoing concerns about investor risk. Executives appear to be actively re-evaluating their global footprints as policy uncertainties in the US push more strategic interest toward the European market.
What happens next
BIO-Europe is scheduled to host its 2026 annual conference in Cologne from November 9-11, 2026, where further industry discussions are expected.
Further reading
For more on industry shifts, explore the latest trends in Biotech.
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