Citi Commercial Bank 2024 Global Industry Insights Report

Inflationary pressures and staffing difficulties—both of which have been seemingly immovable obstacles in the past few years—are beginning to ease. That’s allowing businesses to shift their focus from short-term survival to longer-term growth strategies. Of course, that’s truer of some industries than others but even so, many companies report increased satisfaction with their financial progress and a renewed interest in expanding their global footprint. AI has emerged as a theme across industries on a scale commensurate with the extent to which it looms over broader society, withmore businesses seeing its potential to reshape operations and unlock efficiencies. While uptake rates have varied—Consumer and more analog industries have beenmore cautious than those working with professional processes and digital technology— its transformative impact is undeniable. That said, cost and institutional knowledge may drag on further uptake, underlining the need for thoughtful investment in this space. CONCLUSION Some trends have persisted: inflation continues to cast a long shadow as well as the impact of geopolitical uncertainty. That’s particularly the case for industries that rely on international supply chains. Nevertheless, following the pandemic and its aftermath, business has regained its appetite for global expansion, with mid-sized companies increasingly recognizing the importance of balance and resilience. Asia remains a key focus for many firms, alongside new opportunities in North America and Europe, reflecting a diversified approach to growth in a fragmented world. As businesses chart their course through these complexities, agility and innovation will remain central to their success. By leveraging new technologies, optimizing operations, and deepening relationships with trusted financial providers, Citi Commercial Bank’s clients and others can position themselves to surmount the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities that 2025 brings. The findings in this year’s Global Industry Insights Report reflect a global business landscape that, while still presenting challenges, is steadily moving toward stability.