From AI transformations to upskilling in the job market, McKinsey thought leaders are regularly asked to weigh in on the issues shaping today’s business landscape. We’ll occasionally land in your inbox with timely coverage from global media—alongside related McKinsey insights—to help you stay informed, respond with agility, and lead with confidence.
A playbook for unlocking value. Private-equity-owned companies outperform their counterparts, and the principles behind their success can be valuable in other contexts. McKinsey’s Marla Capozzi, Sacha Ghai, and coauthors share six tactics leading private equity firms have applied to build successful businesses.
“What every company can learn from private equity” [Harvard Business Review, November–December 2025]
Also read: “Global Private Markets Report 2025: Braced for shifting weather”
Change management requires humility. AI initiatives have flooded the workplace, and every aspect of the business—from corporate strategy to day-to-day operations—is evolving. McKinsey’s Alex Singla and Delphine Zurkiya emphasize that to lead AI transformations effectively, executives need to be open and communicative, especially if the technology could change an organization’s value proposition.
“How boards and executives can work together on AI” [Forbes, September 22]
Also read: “Reconfiguring work: Change management in the age of gen AI”
A different way to measure success. Tech leaders are exploring alternatives to ROI when measuring the success of their AI pilot, including a top-down method and readiness to scale. McKinsey’s Lareina Yee notes that significant productivity gains are difficult to achieve at the pilot or unit level, and that organization-wide scale is needed before gains can be measured.
“Stop worrying about AI’s return on investment” [The Wall Street Journal, September 16]
Also read: “The change agent: Goals, decisions, and implications for CEOs in the agentic age”
Mixed messages for job seekers. In the AI age, upskilling courses and hard-earned certifications may no longer be so effective in helping job seekers land higher-paying jobs. McKinsey’s Nora Gardner says that the key to being a stand-out candidate is showing how the new skills and knowledge are being put into practice.
“Does upskilling even work?” [Fast Company, September 30]
Also read: “What the labor market isn’t telling you—yet”
The biggest thing in sales since CRM. Generative and agentic AI have the potential to transform B2B sales. While it’s still early, companies are exploring their use across sales functions, including lead generation, engagement, and retention. McKinsey’s Candace Lun Plotkin, Jennifer Stanley, Maria Valdivieso, and coauthors discuss examples and emphasize the value of greater collaboration between tech and humans.
“How successful sales teams are embracing agentic AI” [Harvard Business Review, September 15]
Also read: “Five fundamental truths: How B2B winners keep growing”
Headwinds ahead for the United States. The US economy faces rising uncertainty, as both the labor and housing markets are weakening. These pressures could lead to reduced consumer spending, lower corporate profits, and higher unemployment. McKinsey’s Shelley Stewart III discusses the direct impact that limited housing access has on the labor market.
“US economy braces for twin housing, labor market headwinds” [Reuters, September 15]
Also read: “Mapping the US affordable housing crisis and unlocking opportunities for economic mobility”