Businesses and governments face growing challenges in 2025, from supply chain disruptions to cybersecurity threats, according to the 2025 Global Risk Report released today by J.S. Held. The report examines five critical risk areas and offers insights aimed at helping organizations adapt and thrive in an uncertain landscape.
The Jericho, N.Y.-based consulting firm identified sustainability investments, supply chain resilience, cryptocurrency regulation, artificial intelligence (AI) governance, and cybersecurity as the most pressing issues facing businesses this year. Greg Esslinger, Executive Vice President and Global Investigations Practice Leader, said the report’s 25 contributors analysed these risks individually and in relation to each other to provide actionable insights.
“These curated insights help clients navigate risks and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the year ahead,” said Esslinger.
One key finding examines the challenges of meeting evolving environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. The report highlights how businesses can drive innovation while aligning with new regulatory requirements across jurisdictions.
Supply chain vulnerabilities also emerged as a central concern, with disruptions driven by geopolitical conflict and climate change. The report explores how companies can improve resilience by integrating sustainability into supply chain strategies.
On the technology front, AI and cybersecurity dominate the landscape. As AI systems transform industries, companies face mounting ethical, operational, and regulatory challenges. The report outlines strategies for adopting AI responsibly while staying competitive. Cybersecurity concerns, including AI-powered attacks and evolving data protection laws, underscore the need for robust safeguards to protect operations and maintain customer trust.
J.S. Held’s CEO Jonathon Held described the report as a tool for organizations grappling with complexity. “In a world where uncertainty is the only constant, there is a need for something solid you can hold onto,” he said.
The company draws on five decades of experience across industries and geographies to provide risk assessment and mitigation strategies. “Agile, collaborative, and creative client-centric teams provide solution-forward advisory to our clients across the globe, no matter the scope or complexity of a project,” said Lee Spirer, J.S. Held’s President and Chief Operating Officer.
