Originally published: Focus on Business, 21 August 2025
Research1 covering some of the world’s largest firms reveals 92% of board directors believe stringent legislation around AI and robotics is preventing their companies from capitalising on the technologies’ full potential. This is according to a new study commissioned by fund manager Robocap.
More than four-fifths (84%) of directors surveyed at FTSE 250, S&P 500 and DAX 40 companies say restrictive regulations surrounding AI and robotics will adversely impact their company’s global competitiveness.Â
Consequently, nearly all (98%) directors participating in the survey say companies will choose to list in countries or markets where legislation is more supportive of AI and robotics, or move existing operations to jurisdictions with positive regulatory regimes.
Two-thirds of survey respondents say their strategy for AI and robotics is very important to their current share price, while 34% say it is quite important.Â
Looking to the next three years, 60% of board directors surveyed say their AI and robotics strategy will be very important and 40% say quite important.Â
Jonathan Cohen, Founder and CIO at Robocap, said: “A robust AI and robotics strategy is seen as material to the success, growth and profitability of today’s leading companies. It is essential that policymakers support these businesses by creating long-term plans that help them achieve their full potential. At a time when countries are competing to attract the biggest and most successful businesses, it makes sense to have progressive legal frameworks in place.”
[1] Robocap commissioned independent research company Pureprofile to interview 50 board directors of FTSE 250, S&P 500 and DAX 40 companies. The research was conducted during March 2025 using an online methodology.
