The economic climate in the first half of 2025, characterized by significant policy uncertainty, market volatility, and inflationary pressures, presents a demanding test for corporate leadership. The reflexive response towards austerity and an inward focus, while understandable, carries profound long-term strategic risks.

Evidence clearly shows: companies that succumb entirely to defensive measures risk stagnation and decline, while those that strategically invest in innovation position themselves for significant outperformance during the inevitable recovery.