AXA 2026 Future Risks Report [pdf] (www-axa-com.cdn.prismic.io)

AXA's 2026 Future Risks Report reveals a significant shift in risk perception, with experts now ranking artificial intelligence (AI) and big data as their top concern, surpassing climate change for the first time. This year's report highlights the complex interplay among various global threats, emphasizing that risks such as geopolitical instability, cyber threats, and energy tensions are deeply interconnected. The findings indicate a growing societal awareness of AI as a structural risk, with 95% of experts and 94% of the general population acknowledging an increase in crises over recent years. However, there is a stark contrast in perceived preparedness for these emerging threats, particularly related to AI, with only 9% of experts feeling that public authorities are adequately prepared. This report is significant for the AI/ML community as it underlines the urgent need for proactive risk management and collaboration between tech, governance, and insurance sectors to mitigate these risks. With enthusiasm for preventative measures being widely shared—85% of respondents believe risks like those posed by AI could potentially be avoided through such actions—there is an opportunity for the community to address societal concerns and develop fair, transparent systems that navigate the complexities of these interconnected risks. The report also brings attention to the generational divide, revealing that many young people fear they will face a declining quality of life, stressing the importance of intergenerational cooperation in resilience-building efforts.