FII Institute Unveils Results Of The 2025 PRIORITY Compass Global Survey On Citizens' Concerns

The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute, in collaboration with Ipsos, has released the 2025 FII PRIORITY Compass survey results. This global study highlights the primary concerns and aspirations of citizens worldwide. The survey indicates that the cost of living is now the top concern for 50% of respondents, marking a significant 10-point increase over the past year.

The survey involved over 60,000 participants from 32 countries, covering 66% of the global population. It provides insights into public sentiment about personal lives, national issues, and global challenges. These findings are set to influence discussions at the ninth edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII9) conference in Riyadh.

Financial insecurity and social unease are prevalent worldwide, with inflation, job security, and access to affordable goods being major concerns. Unemployment and poverty follow closely behind as pressing issues. Additionally, there is a strong demand for technological sovereignty as artificial intelligence continues to impact economies and societies.

Globally, 77% of people believe their nations should develop their own AI systems rather than rely on foreign technologies. This aligns with FII9's focus on AI infrastructure and technology sovereignty. The survey underscores a global call for nations to build and control their own artificial intelligence capabilities.

Health and well-being remain critical priorities globally. Advancing longevity is important for 73% of respondents who desire longer, healthier lives. Mental health and access to affordable medical care are significant concerns, especially among younger individuals and those with lower incomes.

The data reveals a divide between optimism in developing economies and pessimism in advanced ones. Citizens in the Global South express confidence in technology's potential to improve lives. In contrast, those in developed regions worry about inequality, governance issues, and trust in institutions.

Personal Optimism Amid Global Challenges

Despite these challenges, 76% of people feel optimistic about their personal lives' direction. This suggests a fragile but growing sense of hope if global leaders address key issues effectively. The survey highlights a need for economic stability and digital security to foster this optimism further.

Richard Attias, Chairman of the Executive Committee and Acting CEO of the FII Institute, stated: "The data from this year’s PRIORITY Compass offers a clear signal to world leaders: citizens are crying out for economic, digital, and human security."

FII9 Conference: Addressing Global Issues

The release of the 2025 PRIORITY Compass coincides with FII9's opening in Riyadh. Over 9,000 global leaders, investors, policymakers, and innovators have gathered to discuss unlocking prosperity amid rapid changes worldwide. The conference aims to address real-world problems by merging ideas with capital investments.

"They want leaders to address cost-of-living pressures," Attias continued. "Invest in longevity, and ensure that AI serves humanity." These findings will guide discussions at FII9 as stakeholders seek solutions for pressing global challenges.

With inputs from SPA