The CEO Business Barometer 2025 survey, conducted by Deloitte Greece and published in late September 2025, shows high levels of business confidence among Greek CEOs, driven by a stable and maturing economic environment.

According to the findings, 58% of Greek CEOs express optimism regarding the prospects of the Greek economy. This generally positive outlook is even more pronounced as 84% of Greek CEOs expect improved performance for their own company, while optimism for their specific industry or sector stands at 62%.

Despite this confidence, Greek CEOs are also acutely aware of external pressures that can affect their business over the next 12 months. Geopolitical instability is cited as the most significant external risk by 68% of respondents. Closely following this is the lack of skilled labor that concerns 45% of Greek CEOs. 38% also believe that AI and the regulatory framework will also impact their business strategy.

In response to volatility and technological shifts, core strategic priorities for Greek businesses are centered on decreasing costs and improving efficiency (53%), expanding into new markets (51%), as well as in innovating in products and services (42%). Attracting and retaining talent (39%), integrating AI (37%), mergers and acquisitions (37%), and digitization (23%) are also important priorities for Greek CEOs.

Interestingly, the survey highlights limited interest in long-term sustainability. Integration of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and environmental issues now appears to be of lower strategic priority compared to previous surveys. This is evidenced by the fact that only 7% of CEOs prioritize the integration of ESG into their business. Achieving resilience through the diversification of supply chains is also a low priority, cited by only 9% of respondents.

Conversely, 88% of CEOs believe AI will increase their company’s productivity and reduce their operating costs through enhanced automation and resource management.

61% of Greek CEOs also believe that AI will accelerate and facilitate the development of new systems for their business. This shift is also viewed as benefiting human capital, as 56% of respondents also expect AI to facilitate the transition of their employees toward higher-value activities.