Digitization

KPMG survey finds that advanced digitization, M&A, and connectivity to be top priorities for CEOs looking to combat competition

KPMG survey finds that advanced digitization, M&A, and connectivity to be top priorities for CEOs looking to combat competition
Image Credit: KPMG (edited)
Key Points
  • KPMG survey highlights the top priorities of Canadian CEOs across multiple industries
  • Nearly 90% of SMBs/SMEs recognize productivity gaps, with operational issues being the biggest threat to growth
    Key Points
    • KPMG survey highlights the top priorities of Canadian CEOs across multiple industries
    • Nearly 90% of SMBs/SMEs recognize productivity gaps, with operational issues being the biggest threat to growth
      Businesses that are digitally-savvy are likely to get more out of a transaction ... 81% of SMBs think generative AI would make their company more valuable to prospective buyers
      Neil Blair
      Partner and President | KPMG in Canada Corporate Finance

      Survey says: As Canadian businesses push to remain competitive in a recovering economy, leaders are looking at internal operations as the area for opportunity. A recent KPMG survey reveals that operational issues are the single most pressing concern for CEOs, with "advancing digitization and connectivity across the business" as a top operational priority.

      Zooming in: The trend toward digital transformation comes at a time when companies face increased competition and shifting consumer expectations. Leading the charge is Generative AI, with 60% of CEOs saying it has altered the expected skill set for entry-level work. Leaders say they expect an increase in profitability and business valuation as a downstream effect of productivity and efficiency gains.

      Leadership perception: Taking advantage of new technology for productivity and efficiency is the clear benefit for SMBs and SMEs when it comes to growth and potential M&A opportunities.

      "Businesses that are digitally-savvy are likely to get more out of a transaction ... 81% of SMBs think generative AI would make their company more valuable to prospective buyers,” said partner and President of KPMG in Canada Corporate Finance Inc. Neil Blair in a press release.

      Why it matters: The findings represent an inflection point for Canadian businesses. The competitive advantage falls on the first movers to evolve, as streamlining workflows and connectivity become central to operational strategies. Advancing digitization is key to building resilience and scaling as leaders think about future priorities in a cautiously-optimistic-yet-recovering economy.

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