Two days at the Global Corporate Venturing Symposium in London confirmed something I have believed for years: the biggest barrier to innovation in investment, defence, and deep tech is not the technology. It is the risk-averse culture inside the institutions that should be accelerating it. Here is what the signals said, and why it matters now.

Two landmark global studies published this month reveal something the AI industry is not yet ready to hear. Public trust in AI is falling in the markets that matter most, and the information environment through which people form their opinions about it is in crisis. This is not a communications problem. It is a strategic one. Julio Romo draws on data from the Ipsos AI Monitor 2026 and the Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2026 to examine what the signals mean for AI companies, governments, and investors, and why tactical communications is making the trust deficit worse, not better.

The US just switched off Anthropic's most powerful AI models for the world. Here is what that means for every nation betting on AI for growth.

Six signals for 2026 that leaders in government, technology and investment should act on now. A strategic view of geopolitics, trust and reputation as operating constraints.

Tech IPO valuations are soaring as SpaceX, OpenAI and Anthropic reshape markets. We need to think whether ambition, narrative and AI hype are driving sustainable value or a growing bubble.

The UK’s 2025 Budget raised taxes to historic highs but failed to reduce regulatory friction or unlock investment. Here is why these risks pose a long-term growth and why the narrative will impact how UK businesses see the benefit of investing.

Spain is transforming from a tourism-led economy to a European innovation powerhouse. Learn how its growth, strategy, and global perception are attracting investors, tech leaders, and governments worldwide.

AI is transforming consulting, but leaders still need human judgment and expertise. This is why strategists skilled in perception, reputation, and trust are essential to harness AI that builds confidence that drives growth.

Brent Hoberman’s question—“How good is the data that governments use to make choices?”—spotlights a deeper issue: it’s not just about the data, but the people and culture behind it. In this article I explore how risk aversion, silos, and bias hinder policy impact—and what leaders can do to fix it.