Forecasting geopolitical developments has always been difficult, and managing their consequences is now a strategic necessity. Over the past few years, companies have faced profound disruption from trade reconfiguration, economic fragmentation, policy volatility and the weaponization of technology and supply chains. What once seemed exceptional has become a defining feature of global business. This white paper, Building Geopolitical Muscle: How Companies Turn Insights into Strategic Advantage, is the third edition in a series developed by the World Economic Forum in collaboration with IMD Business School and Boston Consulting Group. The first paper explored how firms understood geopolitics and examined the costs of deglobalization; the second explored how firms strengthened their geopolitical radar. Here the focus is on execution, examining how leading companies are institutionalizing geopolitics within their organizations and building the capability to sense, plan and act amid uncertainty. Drawing on more than 55 executive interviews across industries and geographies, the paper offers a practical guide for leaders seeking to translate awareness into action. It is intended for geopolitical officers and executives with a geopolitical role, as well as for board members and senior business leaders reflecting on their own organization and strategies. The paper also brings interesting perspectives for government officials and policy- makers who want to understand how the private sector is adapting to this new era of persistent geopolitical disruption.David Bach President and Nestlé Professor of Strategy and Political Economy, IMD Business School Maroun Kairouz Managing Director, World Economic Forum Aparna Bharadwaj Global Leader, BCG Global Advantage Practice; Managing Director and Senior Partner, Boston Consulting Group Building Geopolitical Muscle: How Companies Turn Insights into Strategic AdvantageJanuary 2026 Foreword Building Geopolitical Muscle: How Companies Turn Insights into Strategic Advantage 3

Building Geopolitical Muscle 2026