PwC recently released the results of our 2024 Global Investor Survey, which was conducted to better understand investor expectations and concerns about corporate reporting and the evolving business landscape. The annual survey results highlight the importance of transparency in technology use, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the need for companies to adapt to global threats, climate change, and regulatory developments.

This week, host Heather Horn is joined by Nadja Picard, PwC Global Reporting Leader, to break down the results and discuss the sometimes differing expectations between companies and investors. They also address how companies can better meet investor expectations through both action and communication.

In this episode, we discuss:

• 01:31 – Purpose of the 2024 global investor survey and demographics of survey participants
• 05:11 – Highlights from the global investor survey, including what surprised our Global Reporting Leader most
• 10:19 – Expectations to continue investing in AI, while upskilling the workforce
• 14:09 – How investors are thinking about climate adaptation and transition
• 19:41 – How investors evaluate trust and communication year over year
• 25:15 – Cybersecurity ranks number one threat
• 33:28 – Executing well and communicating well to address investor concerns
• 36:29 – Advice for companies navigating a challenging reporting landscape

Looking for the latest developments in sustainability reporting? Follow this podcast on your favorite podcast app and subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay in the loop for the latest thought leadership on sustainability standards.

Nadja Picard is PwC’s Global Reporting Leader. In this role, she leads PwC’s global initiative to help clients transform their corporate reporting to meet investor and stakeholder demands for trusted and assured reporting beyond financial reporting. Nadja also advises companies on the accounting, corporate reporting, and investor relations requirements in advance of capital markets transactions, especially IPOs.

Heather Horn is the PwC National Office Sustainability and Thought Leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting, financial reporting, and sustainability matters. In addition, she is part of PwC’s global sustainability leadership team, developing interpretive guidance and consulting with companies as they transition from voluntary to mandatory sustainability reporting. She is also the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to [email protected].

Did you enjoy this episode? Text us your thoughts and be sure to include the episode name.