Nicolas de Bellefonds, BCG’s global AI leader, unpacks the myths, challenges, and real potential of AI agents. They can transform how work gets done if companies stop chasing shortcuts, rethink outdated processes, and prepare for the costs and complexity that come with real change.  Learn More:  Nicolas de Bellefonds: https://on.bcg.com/4lr0Dkh  BCG’s Latest Thinking on AI: https://on.bcg.com/3Y1NHaq  The CEO’s Workout for Peak AI Performance: https://on.bcg.com/44opFtV  From Potential to Profit: Closing the AI Impact Gap: https://on.bcg.com/3XZBGSL  Chapters: [0:25] Nico’s So What [1:16] What Are Agents? [3:57] What Problems Do Agents Solve? [5:56] How Do Agents Affect Processes? [7:50] What Should Leaders Focus On? [9:06] How Do You Start Improving Data and Infrastructure? [10:24] What Are the Biggest Challenges? [13:48] What Is Next? [14:49] How Close Are We to AGI? [15:43] What Are the Risks? [17:13] Now What? This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

 By the year 2035, we will likely be able to utilize AI to crunch complex data sets and produce far more accurate predictions of the future, for everything from stock market fluctuations to consumer trends. Already, meteorologists are using AI to improve weather forecasting—for instance, by more accurately predicting when a hurricane will make landfall. But BCG’s Alan Iny says this does not mean that business leaders will be able to dispense with planning for multiple scenarios. Predictions will never be perfect—and everyone will have access to the same tools—so strategic planning will remain critical even as it evolves in new ways.    Learn More:  Imagine This: https://lnk.to/imagine-this-general-show09 Alan Iny: https://on.bcg.com/4fCNDo5  Are Leaders as Prepared for Strategic Risks as They Think They Are?: https://on.bcg.com/3AXqw8J  BCG on Corporate Finance and Strategy: https://on.bcg.com/496c3Ek  CEO Moments of Truth: https://on.bcg.com/ITMoT   This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Karin von Funck, BCG’s global lead for zero-based transformation, explains why great cost transformation goes beyond spreadsheets. The best companies don’t slash expenses. They have a deep understanding of what drives value, a rigorous approach to spending, and a culture that supports smart decision making. Quick cuts may deliver short-term relief but can erode long-term growth—as well as the trust of employees.   Learn More:  Karin von Funck: https://on.bcg.com/4iBZXqn  BCG Latest Thinking on Cost: https://on.bcg.com/4iU0RhB  Cost Management Remains an Executive Priority in 2025: https://on.bcg.com/41VTsYm  This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp