Viva Technology has published the second edition of his “Confidentce Barometer”, an investigation conducted by Opdionway that probes the opinions of the Executives of the technological sector internationally. The study highlights how technology is considered increasingly strategic, with artificial intelligence at the head of investments. However, a clear gap emerges between the trust of the Americans and that of the Europeans, with Italy in particular that appears more cautious. 100%of interviewees recognize the advantages of technological adoption, citing increase in productivity (62%) and cost reduction (48%). Artificial intelligence confirms the technology with greater potential impact (65%), followed by cybersecurity (41%) and cloud computing (39%). It is therefore not surprising that 85% of companies plan to increase investments in IA in the next 12 months, confirming a global trend.
François Bitouzet, Managing Director of Viva Technology, said: “We are very satisfied with the results of the second barometer that analyzes the degree of trust of the top managers in the Tech sector and which shows how the corporate decision-makers of all countries are increasingly oriented towards innovation, with 81% of the managers who saw their perception of the role of new technologies in competitiveness improve. However, despite this generally positive picture, the barometer highlights a difference between the United States, which are distinguished by greater optimism, and a Europe that proceeds at different speeds. On the one hand, countries like France, Germany and the United Kingdom show a clearly positive attitude; on the other, reality like Italy and Spain appear less confident. “
If 81% of executives consider crucial technology for international competitiveness, trust in their position varies considerably. United States (92%) and United Kingdom (81%) are perceived at the forefront, followed by France and Germany (76%). Italy, with only 64% of optimistic executives, shows less trust in their technological skills. To ensure competitiveness, interviewees focus on qualified personnel (45%), investments in R&D (44%) and international reputation (43%). United States and France, in particular, underline the importance of international collaboration. Also in the adoption of new technologies, USA (87%) and UK (82%) are perceived as a leader, while Italy (44%) accredited a significant delay. France, with 71%, however recorded a growth of over 10 points compared to 2024.
The lack of qualified personnel (41%) and the resistance to change (39%) are seen as the main obstacles to innovation. In the United States, regulatory compliance and data protection worries (50%). Despite its potential, technology brings concerns with it. 77% of Executives fear the invasion of privacy and the spread of fake news. Privacy is a theme heard in all countries, especially in the USA (83%) and Spain (90%), while Germany and Italy appear less worried. To deal with these risks, 9 out of 10 companies have implemented information measures. Over half involve greater complexity in data management in the future.
The environmental impact of technology worries 70% of interviewees, in particular startups and scaleups (47% very worried). The United States show a growing sensitivity to the theme (74%). Despite concerns, 90%of Executives see technology as a solution to social challenges, in particular in the context of education (45%) and the fight against disinformation (42%). 81% believe that the Tech ecosystem promotes diversity and inclusion. In conclusion, Viva Technology’s “Confidence Barometer” paints a complex picture of the global technological sector. The IA is confirmed as an innovation engine, but Europe, and Italy in particular, must face significant challenges to fill the gap with the United States and fully exploit the potential of digital transformation.