The World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland is underway, bringing together billionaires, business executives, and global leaders to discuss pressing issues that will shape the future. While President Trump’s appearance and tariff policies dominate headlines, artificial intelligence remains a critical focus for the 2025 gathering.
This year’s AI conversation at Davos represents a significant shift from 2024. Last year, “agentic AI” was the buzzword capturing attendees’ imagination as companies explored autonomous AI systems capable of independent decision-making. In 2025, however, the discussion has matured considerably, with three letters taking center stage: ROI (Return on Investment).
The AI industry has witnessed unprecedented investment over the past year, with tech giants and enterprises placing massive bets on AI infrastructure, models, and applications. Now, business leaders gathering in the Swiss Alps are asking the hard questions: What tangible returns are companies seeing from their AI investments? How is this technology actually performing in real-world business applications?
Beyond financial returns, AI’s impact on workforce headcounts is expected to generate substantial discussion at the forum. As companies deploy AI tools across operations, the technology’s effect on employment levels has become impossible to ignore. Business leaders, policymakers, and labor advocates will likely debate how organizations can balance AI adoption with workforce stability and the broader societal implications of AI-driven automation.
The Davos gathering also features other major topics, including President Trump’s scheduled appearance on Wednesday, where he plans to focus on affordability issues. Trump previously delivered a controversial virtual address in 2024 after skipping the in-person event. California Governor Gavin Newsom is also attending to challenge Trump’s economic agenda.
Tariffs remain another key discussion point, particularly Trump’s threats against countries opposing his Greenland acquisition plans. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has framed the Greenland issue as a conflict-avoidance strategy.
The convergence of global leaders, tech executives, and AI industry stakeholders at Davos provides a unique opportunity to assess where AI stands in its evolution from experimental technology to business-critical infrastructure, and what that transformation means for workers worldwide.
Key Quotes
Last year, the word of the conference was ‘agentic AI.’ This year it feels like three letters will be top of mind: ROI.
This observation from Business Insider’s coverage captures the fundamental shift in AI discourse at Davos 2025, highlighting how the conversation has evolved from exploring AI capabilities to demanding measurable business returns on massive AI investments.
The bets have been placed, and they are big, but what is AI doing for companies?
This statement encapsulates the central question facing business leaders at Davos, acknowledging the enormous capital deployed into AI while questioning whether these investments are generating proportional value for organizations.
Also expect some chatter about how the tech is affecting workforce headcounts.
This preview of Davos discussions signals that AI’s impact on employment will be a significant topic, reflecting growing concerns about automation’s effect on jobs as companies scale their AI deployments.
Our Take
The Davos AI narrative shift from “agentic AI” to “ROI” reflects a healthy maturation of the industry. After years of breathless hype and astronomical valuations, stakeholders are rightfully demanding proof that AI investments translate into business value. This accountability moment could actually benefit the AI sector long-term by separating genuinely transformative applications from overhyped solutions.
The workforce discussion is particularly crucial. Companies that successfully integrate AI while maintaining workforce stability—through reskilling, redeployment, or thoughtful transition strategies—will likely emerge as models for responsible AI adoption. Conversely, organizations that pursue AI-driven headcount reduction without considering broader implications may face regulatory backlash and reputational damage. The Davos conversations could establish important norms around ethical AI deployment that balance innovation with social responsibility, ultimately shaping how AI transforms work globally.
Why This Matters
This Davos AI discussion marks a critical inflection point for the artificial intelligence industry. The shift from discussing “agentic AI” capabilities to demanding concrete ROI signals that AI has moved beyond the hype cycle into accountability phase. Companies have invested hundreds of billions in AI infrastructure, and stakeholders now expect measurable business outcomes.
The workforce impact conversation is equally significant, as it addresses one of society’s most pressing concerns about AI adoption. How companies navigate AI implementation while managing employment levels will set precedents for responsible AI deployment globally. These Davos discussions could influence corporate policies, government regulations, and investment strategies for years to come.
For the broader AI ecosystem, this represents a maturation moment. The industry must demonstrate that AI delivers real value beyond impressive demos and pilot projects. The outcomes of these conversations will likely affect AI funding, development priorities, and adoption rates across industries, making this a pivotal moment for determining AI’s practical role in the global economy.
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Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/bi-newsletter-davos-trump-tariffs-newsom-what-to-watch-2026-1