Survey: Firms least prepared in 10 years for volatility, as Brexit talks start

Companies are currently mired at their lowest level of risk and volatility preparedness for at least 10 years, a survey shows, just as Britain begins formal exit negotiations with the EU.

The latest annual study — by professional services giant Aon — found cyber crime, damage to brand reputation and disruptive technologies/innovation as the main risks facing global companies. However, just as pertinent to companies in Ireland and other parts of western Europe, risks from political events and uncertainties has jumped six places to number nine in the list of concerns.

Furthermore, developed nations that were traditionally associated with political stability — such as Britain and the US — are becoming new sources of volatility and uncertainty for companies.