NTT DATA has released its 2026 Global AI Report, revealing how a small group of high-performing organisations are turning AI investment into meaningful financial returns while many others remain stuck in pilot mode. The study shows that the top 15 per cent of companies—classified as “AI leaders”—are 2.5 times more likely to record revenue growth above 10 per cent and more than three times more likely to achieve profit margins of 15 per cent or higher from their AI deployments.
The report, based on a survey of 2,567 senior executives across 35 countries and 15 industries, analyses how these AI leaders differentiate through strategy, execution and cultural readiness. Only 15 per cent of surveyed organisations met the criteria for leadership, defined by clear AI strategies, mature operating models and a disciplined focus on execution.
“AI accountability now belongs in the boardroom and demands an enterprise-wide agenda,” said Yutaka Sasaki, President and CEO of NTT DATA Group. “Our research shows that a small group of AI leaders already are using AI to differentiate, grow and reinvent how humans and machines create value together.”
The report outlines several characteristics defining the strategic approach of top performers. Leaders treat AI as a core growth engine rather than an experimental technology. They tightly align AI with business strategy, focus on high-value domains that unlock outsized economic benefit, and rebuild core applications with embedded AI instead of relying on superficial add-ons. These organisations also benefit from a flywheel effect, where early success accelerates further investment and growth.
Execution plays a critical role in separating leaders from the broader market. According to the study, these organisations invest in scalable and secure AI infrastructure, including private and sovereign AI capabilities. They emphasise expert-first design, using AI to amplify the productivity of skilled employees. Leaders also view adoption as a whole-of-company transformation program and formalise governance, often through dedicated Chief AI Officers who manage risk, oversee standards and ensure alignment across the organisation. Strategic external partnerships and outcome-driven collaborations further accelerate value.
“Once AI and business strategies are aligned, the single most effective move is to pick one or two domains that deliver disproportionate value and redesign them end-to-end with AI,” said Abhijit Dubey, CEO and CAIO of NTT DATA, Inc. “Supporting this focused, end-to-end approach with strong governance, modern infrastructure and trusted partners is how today’s AI leaders are turning pilots into profits and pulling ahead of the market.”
The survey, conducted between September and October 2025, included C-suite and senior executives from technology, manufacturing, banking, financial services, healthcare, consumer and other sectors. NTT DATA says the findings are intended to serve as a playbook for organisations striving to scale AI responsibly while maximising business impact.
You can read the full report here.
