Potential dangers of AI seen as major business risks for 2024

Davos, Switzerland — Thdfe potential dangers of AI, particularly its influence on upcoming elections and the escalation of military conflicts, is being seen as one of the major risks for businesses in 2024.
This was underscored by a panel of CEOs from leading global companies, including Amazon’s Andy Jassy, Intel’s Pat Gelsinger, and others, at a recent Fortune dinner in Davos.
The CEOs discussed a spectrum of concerns, ranging from the impact of AI on society to geopolitical tensions and misinformation.
They underscored “The biggest risk is today’s AI’s impact on society and its potential to influence elections and escalate military conflict,” one executive expressed.
Elections emerged as a focal point of discussion. With 3 billion people across 40 countries, representing 60 percent of global GDP, set to vote this year, the threat of misinformation undermining societal trust was a significant concern. “Misinformation can destroy trust through an election and undermine society at large,” said another CEO.
Geopolitical risk was unanimously recognized as a paramount concern. “The different wars going on and the potential for expansion make geopolitical risk the most important risk in 2024,” a participant noted. The Taiwan election was cited as a crucial event that has already taken place, highlighting the interconnected nature of global politics.
The disconnect between science and society was another topic of concern, with a CEO stating, “The biggest risk is the separation between what science is saying and society’s belief in it.”
The discussion also touched on the potential destabilization of America and its global implications. “Normalization of geopolitical conflict, especially with the uncertainties surrounding the American political landscape, could be a major issue,” a CEO pointed out.
Other risks highlighted included the ongoing threat of terrorism, driven by disparities in societies, the dangers posed by asteroids, and the deceptive capabilities of AI and deep fakes.
The roundtable at Davos provided a sobering overview of the challenges and risks that global leaders perceive as most critical in the coming year, underlining the need for proactive and collaborative solutions.