As the RSAC 2025 Conference approaches, key themes are emerging that are set to dominate the world’s largest cybersecurity gathering. Industry dynamics are shifting rapidly – from AI enabling higher velocity threats, an intensified platform consolidation debate, high-profile M&A, rising interest in AI agents (with somewhat tepid adoption in cyber), and shifting security budget priorities.

Our research shows that though cybersecurity remains a top priority for information technology leaders, it is not immune from macroeconomic headwinds. Moreover, geopolitical tensions have heightened perceived and actual threats, causing a large portion of customers to change their spending habits. On balance, cybersecurity remains the most challenging sector in tech, where 100% success is virtually unattainable; and failure can cripple a firm’s brand.

In this Breaking Analysis, we dig into Enterprise Technology Research’s Annual State of Security Research (free download). We’ll examine the macro picture in cybersecurity, share the shifting spending patterns and priorities exposed in the research, examine the hype and realities of platform consolidation, and share which companies chief information security officers feel are helping them innovate to fight the fight.