#ceos

#ceos

At the start of a new year, it's human nature to want a crystal ball: What lies ahead, and how will it affect us? This feeling is particularly acute in times of uncertainty, when the ability to engage in meaningful foresight can feel elusive at best. And whether the world is objectively more volatile, it certainly feels that way to CEOs: Based on our analysis of earnings calls, 2025 saw a significant spike in discussions about uncertainty, with little sign of abating in 2026.

There's a lot of mystique around the CEO's morning routine; each business leader has their own habit to start the day off right, whether that's cold plunges or 5 a.m. runs before work. But many top executives start their days just like everyone else: shutting off their alarms and rolling over to check their phones. Even CEOs leading billion-dollar companies peruse through apps first thing in the morning.

Retail is a tough industry where top brands post massive revenue figures, employ hundreds of thousands of people, and chase relatively tight profit margins. And while retail CEOs don't usually see the same rockstar treatment that tech execs enjoy, they are still in high demand. Leaders of these large retail chains are often paid eight-figure compensation packages for managing this complexity, based on Business Insider's analysis of proxy filings over the past year.

CEOs like OpenAI's Sam Altman have recently shared what TV shows their watching. Mike Wirth of Chevron shared his thoughts about the Paramount+ series "Landman" in February. Here's what TV shows CEOs say they are into these days.

Starbucks ended its remote work policy for corporate headquarters staff in 2023, drawing criticism for granting its new CEO a remote work arrangement during a time where in-office expectations are growing.

Stepping into the CEO spot is a psychological event that can trigger anxiety and confusion, as new leaders grapple with their shifting identity and responsibilities.

Many CEOs, including Ted Pick, emphasize that the term 'pause' signals a need for careful reflection before significant business decisions are made, highlighting the tension in the current economic climate.