At the Milken Institute Global Conference 2026, Dan Costa speaks with Andrea Guerzoni, Global Vice Chair of EY-Parthenon, about why global CEOs remain surprisingly optimistic — even as geopolitical tensions, tariffs, and economic uncertainty continue to rise.
While headlines focus on instability, Guerzoni explains why M&A activity is accelerating, why corporations are embracing AI faster than expected, and why many business leaders believe resilience now matters more than efficiency.
The conversation explores:
- Why global M&A activity is surging despite geopolitical uncertainty
- How AI is reshaping corporate strategy and dealmaking
- Why CEOs are rethinking efficiency, resilience, and growth
- The real impact of tariffs and shifting global trade policies
- Why companies are using acquisitions to secure AI capabilities
- How AI is speeding up due diligence and transforming transactions
- The growing disconnect between market optimism and geopolitical risk
- Why fears of an “AI labor apocalypse” may be overblown
Guerzoni also explains why today’s business leaders are no longer waiting for uncertainty to disappear — they’re learning how to operate inside it.
A fascinating conversation about AI, global markets, corporate strategy, and the future of business in an increasingly unpredictable world.
Participants
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