63% of U.S. entrepreneurs are planning to exit their businesses. A new UBS report explains why

Core Insights - The world's top entrepreneurs are exhibiting unprecedented optimism and are preparing for a significant wealth transfer, with plans to capitalize on business opportunities over the next decade [1][5] Entrepreneurial Sentiment - A survey of 215 elite founders with a combined annual revenue of $34.3 billion reveals that 68% of entrepreneurs are optimistic about their business prospects for the next 12 months, with the highest confidence levels in Switzerland (83%) and Europe (74%) [2] - Entrepreneurs are not retreating but are instead focusing on reinvention and growth, demonstrating remarkable resilience [3] Workforce Expansion Plans - 80% of entrepreneurs globally plan to increase their workforce over the next five years, with 37% intending significant increases [4] - 45% of entrepreneurs are considering international expansion or relocation to tap into new customer markets [4] Technological Adoption - 61% of entrepreneurs view artificial intelligence as their greatest commercial technology opportunity, indicating a strong commitment to improving efficiency and margins [4] Wealth Transfer Dynamics - Nearly one-third (32%) of global entrepreneurs are actively considering exiting their businesses within the next five years, with this figure rising to 57% for those aged 65 and over [6] - American entrepreneurs are leading this trend, with 63% planning an exit, compared to 38% in Europe and 18% in Asia-Pacific [6]