Outlook Report 2026
The Global State of Boards & Governance
Something is broken in the boardroom and the data proves it.
When 93% of executives want at least one director replaced, CEO turnover hits record highs, and two-thirds of board members lack the AI knowledge their companies need to compete, governance as usual is no longer an option.
This landmark report from the Global Board Institute synthesizes findings from over 20 major governance research programs, including PwC, Spencer Stuart, NACD, Russell Reynolds, and McKinsey — into a single, data-rich analysis of what's really happening in boardrooms worldwide.
Inside the report, you'll discover:
Data-driven insights into what's really happening in global boardrooms
Why board dissatisfaction has reached its highest levels ever recorded — and what’s driving it
The historic shift in CEO succession that every director needs to understand
How AI-literate boards outperform their peers by nearly 11 percentage points in ROE
The cybersecurity oversight gap that’s putting companies at risk of $10M+ breaches
Where director compensation stands despite dramatically expanded responsibilities
What leading boards are doing differently in composition, refreshment, and stakeholder engagement
Who this report is for
This research is essential for those shaping the next decade of boardroom leadership and governance
Board Directors
Navigate evolving governance challenges with data-backed insights
Governance Professionals
Stay ahead of trends and understand global governance evolution
Institutional Investors
Assess board effectiveness and governance quality of portfolio companies
Chairpersons
Lead board transformation with evidence-based best practices
Executive Leaders
Understand board expectations and strengthen C-suite relationships
Global Leaders
Shape the boards that will define the next decade of global governance
Download your complimentary copy today
Get immediate access to data-driven insights that are reshaping how boards operate globally
A comprehensive analysis synthesizing findings from over 20 major governance research programs to reveal what's really happening in boardrooms worldwide.
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