Only 7% of Companies Achieve Full Compliance Amid Global Expansion
A new study by CSC reveals that only 7% of organizations report full compliance across their global entities as businesses accelerate international expansion in 2026. The report, titled 'General Counsel Barometer 2026,' surveyed 350 general counsels and senior legal professionals across Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific. It highlights significant challenges in navigating complex regulatory environments, with 47% of respondents identifying beneficial ownership rules as the biggest risk to legal operations. Additionally, 44% lack confidence in meeting cross-border data security requirements, and 37% struggle with delivering consistent global services. While most companies report partial compliance, the accelerating pace of regulatory change, including frameworks like DORA and evolving AI laws, complicates efforts to maintain control. In response, legal teams are prioritizing technology upgrades, automation, and improved data transparency. Although 35% of organizations are already using AI for compliance, concerns regarding data quality, legacy systems, and regulatory uncertainty hinder wider adoption. Consequently, 83% of respondents rely on multiple external corporate service providers to manage fragmented global networks, signaling a shift toward centralized approaches and the recognition that technology alone is insufficient for maintaining compliance.
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Only 7% of Companies Achieve Full Compliance Amid Global Expansion
A new study by CSC reveals that only 7% of organizations report full compliance across their global entities as businesses accelerate international expansion in 2026. The report, titled 'General Counsel Barometer 2026,' surveyed 350 general counsels and senior legal professionals across Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific. It highlights significant challenges in navigating complex regulatory environments, with 47% of respondents identifying beneficial ownership rules as the biggest risk to legal operations. Additionally, 44% lack confidence in meeting cross-border data security requirements, and 37% struggle with delivering consistent global services. While most companies report partial compliance, the accelerating pace of regulatory change, including frameworks like DORA and evolving AI laws, complicates efforts to maintain control. In response, legal teams are prioritizing technology upgrades, automation, and improved data transparency. Although 35% of organizations are already using AI for compliance, concerns regarding data quality, legacy systems, and regulatory uncertainty hinder wider adoption. Consequently, 83% of respondents rely on multiple external corporate service providers to manage fragmented global networks, signaling a shift toward centralized approaches and the recognition that technology alone is insufficient for maintaining compliance.
Financial Post