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Corporate World Adapts to New Risk Paradigm: Resilience Supplants Traditional Risk Management

In today’s fast-paced and increasingly volatile business environment, companies are rethinking their approach to risk management. Gone are the days of relying solely on traditional methods; instead, corporate leaders are embracing a new paradigm that prioritizes resilience over mere risk mitigation.

Caution and Preparation in Today’s Business Environment


At a recent conference of global CFOs, the prevailing sentiment was one of caution and preparation. Companies are recognizing the need for early warning systems and increased resilience to withstand future shocks. This shift in thinking is driven by the realization that traditional risk management approaches are no longer sufficient in today’s rapidly changing world.

Blind Spots Abound


One major area of concern is identifying blind spots that could lead to unexpected risks. Boards and executive teams must have timely reporting that allows for critical evaluation of their organization’s risk profile, including key drivers and evolving trends. Unfortunately, many existing reporting systems are inadequate, providing too much extraneous detail or lacking focus on important messages.

Transformations Pose Unique Risks


Another challenge is managing the risks associated with transformations, such as cost-cutting initiatives or digital technology adoption. These changes can bring new risks that traditional ERM processes may not be equipped to handle.

Derisking Strategy: A New Approach


To succeed in this new landscape, companies must adopt a derisking strategy that goes beyond mere planning exercises. This involves stress-testing strategies against shorter timelines and accounting for a broader range of potential outcomes. Banks and corporates alike can benefit from developing dynamic capabilities, such as foresight and informed action, to anticipate disruption.

Lessons for Banks


The experience of leading corporations provides valuable lessons for banks looking to improve their approach to nonfinancial risk management. By embedding risk management in the front line and elevating strategic resilience questions to the executive team and board, banks can develop a more advanced approach that incorporates the full spectrum of nonfinancial risks.

Conclusion


As companies navigate this new era of uncertainty and disruption, adopting a resilience-focused approach is crucial for survival. By recognizing blind spots, managing transformations, and derisking strategies through dynamic capabilities and structural assets, organizations can build a stronger foundation for success. As banks look to improve their nonfinancial risk management, they would do well to heed the lessons from leading corporations and develop a more advanced approach that prioritizes resilience.