Research Report
January 15, 2026
CIO — Wave of Change™ ANZ 2026
After two years of rapid AI acceleration, ANZ technology leaders enter 2026 with confidence — but the data reveals a widening set of gaps between ambition and value.
After two years of rapid AI acceleration, ANZ technology leaders enter 2026 with unmistakable confidence. But beneath the optimism, the data reveals a more complex reality: a widening series of gaps standing in the way of scale and value.
Confidence is high — readiness is uneven
82%
of CIOs expect to grow technology investment in 2026
55%
say their operating model is ready to scale AI
71%
cite data foundations as the top blocker
Prioritised digital and AI investment is lifting bullishness for business growth. Yet fewer than half believe their organisation is structurally ready to capture the return.
AI is the centrepiece of 2026 strategy
86%
rank AI among their top three priorities
78%
are scaling at least one GenAI use case
32%
have moved beyond pilots to measurable value
The gap that matters
Skilling alone is failing to build readiness. The winners in 2026 will pair capability with the operating model, data foundations and governance to actually use it.
The optimism reverberating across the C-suite does not yet align with what teams on the ground feel about their readiness to deliver.
— Factor — Wave of Change™, ANZ 2026
The human AND AI factor will define success
Leaders who invest equally in people and platforms — closing the sentiment, adoption and infrastructure gaps — are the ones converting AI conviction into compounding advantage.