C-suite optimism remains high, but implementation readiness, ROI proof, and governance challenges temper enterprise adoption

Mindbreeze, a leading global provider of AI-based knowledge management solutions, today announced the results of its 1H 2026 GenAI Confidence Index Report. The study reveals a pivotal shift in how global enterprises view Generative AI: from early enthusiasm toward disciplined, execution-focused adoption. While senior executives continue to express confidence in GenAI’s long-term strategic value, the report shows that organizations are increasingly cautious about their ability to implement these technologies at scale and translate pilots into measurable business outcomes.

“Enterprises are no longer debating whether GenAI matters. That question has been settled,” said Daniel Fallmann, CEO and founder of Mindbreeze. “What’s changed in 2026 is that leaders are demanding proof. Confidence now hinges on execution: data readiness, governance, integration, and demonstrable ROI and ability to scale.”

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Insight: Mid-Range ROI Expectations Expand

• Mid-tier ROI ratings (4–6) increased from 14 percent to 35 percent over the same period.
• This indicates a shift from optimistic certainty toward conditional and use-case-specific ROI expectations.

Insight: Operations Emerges as the Primary Value Target

• Operations-related benefits rose from 7 percent in 2H’25 to 25percent in 1H’26, the largest increase among all functions.
• Organizations are refocusing GenAI on efficiency, cost control, and internal productivity rather than experimentation.

Insight: Perceived Lack of Benefit Declines Sharply

• Respondents citing “Don’t see a benefit” fell from 12 percent to 4 percent.
• The market broadly accepts GenAI’s potential, with hesitation centered on execution and economics rather than usefulness.

Methodology

The 1H 2026 GenAI Confidence Index survey was conducted online within the United States and Europe between November 17, 2025, and February 6, 2026, among a U.S. sample of 12,156 managers and executives who indicated they participate in business strategy discussions for their company. Of the 12,156 sample size, 1,758 respondents completed the survey.

All sample surveys and polls, whether or not they use probability sampling, are subject to multiple sources of error, which are most often not possible to quantify or estimate, including sampling error, coverage error, error associated with nonresponse, error associated with question wording and response options, and post-survey weighting and adjustments.

About Mindbreeze

Mindbreeze is a global leader in AI-powered enterprise intelligence, with headquarters in Europe and the US. Mindbreeze InSpire redefines how organizations access and utilize information. Powered by advanced AI, it transforms complex data into actionable insights, seamlessly connecting and analyzing information across systems.

Learn more at www.mindbreeze.com or follow us on LinkedIn and X @Mindbreeze.

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