AI is the biggest riser in this year's annual survey. It jumps from tenth to second place after cyber issues, highlighting the emerging risks for companies in almost all industry sectors. Confronting cyber and AI risks and threats is a strategic issue for corporate boards and an operational concern for business executives.

Human, eco-system and planetary health are inter-related. Pollution of the environment, biodiversity loss and climate change are also important drivers of the emergence and spread of disease. Life forms adapt in differing ways and at varying speeds. We can learn from species with whom we have a common ancestry.

The financial awareness expected of company directors is one aspect of a broader perception needed to ensure the future success of entities on whose boards they serve.

Investigations of insolvencies can reveal deficiencies in the attention given to basics such as monitoring cash flows and critical trends or anticipating pressure points on the ability to meet financial commitments as they fall due.

The current era of great power politics in an anarchic, uncertain and militarised world should have been foreseen. The steady accumulation of power and influence by certain leaders of powerful states has been clear, although overlooked or ignored by some.

Many directors face a dilemma. They may feel they are endeavouring to be socially and environmentally responsible. A company might have CSR and/or ESG policies, invest in pollution reduction initiatives and appear to satisfy legislative and regulatory requirements in jurisdictions in which it operates.

Many boards are vulnerable. The experience, expertise and development of their members, and their attitudes, assumptions and expectations, often derive from a previous era.

Events are more difficult to foresee and prepare for. Shifts underway are causing a rethink of what constitutes responsible leadership and represents business excellence. Systems, processes and infrastructures may all reflect previous estimates of what could or might happen, projections of past trends, and assessments of possible developments.

After relevant preparation, leaders in various arenas with differing career aspirations were often presented with distinct challenges and opportunities. These are now more inter-related. Key decision makers in multiple arenas currently face similar issues and shared global risks.

Recognise global risks and existential threats and address realities. Do not hide your head in the sand, deflect or avoid responsibility.