PwC India's Krishnan sees VUCA economics as opportunity

Sanjeev Krishnan, the Chairperson of PwC India, spoke at BT MindRush 2025 about the need for businesses to adapt in a world full of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity, known as VUCA. He emphasized that companies should view disruptions as chances to innovate rather than threats. Krishnan shared examples of successful companies, such as Airbnb and Uber, that emerged during challenging times. He also mentioned how Netflix transitioned from DVD rentals to streaming, highlighting the importance of adapting to changes. His insights led to a five-point framework for sustainable growth. He noted that success comes to those who can quickly respond to changes. For instance, Zoom's growth during the COVID-19 pandemic showed how making smart decisions and using data can turn challenges into opportunities. Leading companies often anticipate customer needs before they arise, creating new markets and changing expectations, as seen with India’s e-commerce platforms. Krishnan also discussed the importance of resilience. Businesses should use crises to gain long-term advantages by staying flexible and managing risks effectively. He pointed out that technology can be both a change agent and a solution, urging companies to embrace digital transformation for better efficiency and competitiveness. Additionally, he highlighted that future growth will require collaboration among businesses, government, and startups. India’s success with its digital infrastructure shows how these partnerships can drive progress. Krishnan concluded by stating that disruption should incentivize businesses to reinvent themselves, and leaders must recognize and seize new opportunities. He encouraged a proactive approach, emphasizing that the time for reinvention is now.