By Lyle Malander, CEO & Founder | Malander Advisory
Published: November 26, 2025
As 2025 draws to a close, the global business landscape stands at a defining crossroads. The year has been one of recalibration of strategy, technology, and leadership. The organisations that have endured the volatility of the last decade are those that learned not just to adapt, but to anticipate.
Looking toward 2026, the competitive edge will belong to companies that operate with foresight and flexibility, combining strong financial governance with a human approach to leadership and transformation. At Malander Advisory, our engagements across regions and sectors have surfaced five strategic shifts that will shape business success in the year ahead.
- AI-Driven Insight Becomes the New Boardroom Currency
The AI revolution is no longer an abstract idea; it is now an operational imperative. The most successful organisations in 2026 will not be those that simply adopt technology, but those that integrate it intelligently into decision-making.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning are changing the speed and accuracy of strategic planning, forecasting, and reporting. The key differentiator is not access to data — it’s the ability to turn that data into actionable intelligence.
Boards are increasingly demanding real-time visibility into business performance and market trends. In 2026, we expect CFOs and CEOs to work side by side in transforming data into strategy, ensuring that AI doesn’t replace human judgement but enhances it.
- Sustainable Growth Models Will Move from Compliance to Core Strategy
Sustainability is no longer a corporate checkbox; it’s a measure of long-term resilience.
Investors, regulators, and clients are now holding organisations accountable not only for financial returns, but for the impact they create. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles have shifted from reporting requirements to strategic drivers.
The next evolution will focus on integration, embedding ESG considerations into capital allocation, supply chain decisions, and even product design. Businesses that treat sustainability as a growth strategy rather than an obligation will lead the market in both performance and reputation.
- Cross-Border Agility Will Define Global Competitiveness
In 2025, we saw an acceleration of cross-border expansion as companies sought growth beyond saturated domestic markets. However, with expansion comes complexity. Regulatory environments, tax obligations, and cultural nuances can turn opportunity into exposure if not managed strategically.
In 2026, cross-border agility, the ability to navigate and adapt to diverse market conditions quickly, will separate successful global players from those stretched too thin.
At Malander Advisory, we are helping organisations design international growth strategies that are both compliant and dynamic, ensuring that global expansion supports rather than strains the business model.
- Financial Resilience Will Outweigh Pure Growth
Growth remains vital, but the coming year will test financial discipline more than ambition. Volatility in interest rates, currency fluctuations, and shifting investor sentiment have highlighted the importance of maintaining liquidity, balance sheet strength, and capital flexibility.
The organisations best positioned for 2026 are those that understand growth cannot come at the cost of resilience.
In an unpredictable economy, strong financial governance and scenario planning are no longer optional. Companies that prioritise sustainable profitability over short-term gains will be the ones that endure market turbulence and capitalise on emerging opportunities.
- Leadership Evolution: Emotional Intelligence as a Strategic Competency
Perhaps the most profound shift ahead is cultural rather than technical.
Leadership is evolving from command to connection. As the workplace continues to transform with hybrid models, diverse teams, and rapid change, emotional intelligence will become a defining leadership skill.
The ability to listen, empathise, and align teams around purpose will prove as critical as any technical competency. Leaders who can balance humanity with performance, and empathy with accountability, will foster loyalty, creativity, and innovation.
In 2026, leadership will not only be about driving results, but it will also be about building trust.
Looking Ahead: Strategy Built for What’s Next
The future is not uncertain; it is simply unfolding faster than many expect. The businesses that thrive in 2026 will be those that plan beyond their financial targets and think holistically about people, purpose, and adaptability.
At Malander Advisory, we continue to support organisations in preparing for what’s next. Our approach combines strategic foresight with financial precision, helping clients build models that are not just profitable, but sustainable.
The next era of business will belong to those who lead with clarity, agility, and intent. The question every organisation should be asking now is not “what will 2026 bring?” , but “how ready are we to lead it?”
About the Author
Lyle Malander is the CEO and Founder of Malander Advisory, a leading professional services and advisory firm headquartered in Johannesburg with an expanding footprint across the UK and Europe. He is passionate about financial strategy, governance, and leadership that drives sustainable business growth in a changing world.