Study predicts surge in Agentic AI projects as positive ROI trends continue

Around 62% of organizations are set to boost Gen AI investments this year. (Photo: GaudiLab/ Shutterstock)

New research suggests that AI projects are delivering positive returns on investment (ROI), with an average return of nearly 1.7 times the initial funding commitment. The study, conducted by Capgemini Research, indicates that about 30% of early adopters of generative AI (Gen AI) have already integrated AI agents into their operations and forecasts a 48% increase in agentic AI projects by 2025. The survey also notes that one in five organisations polled were currently utilising AI agents or multi-agent systems, contributing to significant cost savings and operational efficiencies.

“While the research suggests increased adoption of AI agents, organisations still face numerous barriers to implementation at scale,” said Capgemini Business Services CEO and Group Executive Committee member Oliver Pfeil. “Adopting a pragmatic approach, fostering trust in AI, and creating a strong data foundation will go a long way in transforming business services into a strategic powerhouse to fuel any enterprise.”

Wider adoption highlights Gen AI’s business value

The report also noted that while some businesses initially expressed concerns about achieving ROI from large-scale AI rollouts, these apprehensions are rapidly diminishing. Enterprises are experiencing substantial returns, which has prompted 62% of surveyed organisations to increase their Gen AI investments this year.

According to the survey, two in five organisations expect to see a positive return on their AI investments within one to three years. Currently, 36% of businesses have integrated Gen AI into their operations, up from 20% last year. Among these early adopters, approximately 30% have incorporated AI agents into their business processes. These AI agents are being used across various sectors, including high tech, industrial manufacturing, consumer products, energy, and healthcare.

To maximise ROI, the report advises organisations to prioritise strong leadership, governance, and AI readiness. Establishing these elements can lead to faster ROI, with some organisations achieving returns 45% quicker. However, the report notes that most enterprises lack strong leadership support for Gen AI, with only one in three leaders being strong advocates.

The report also notes that enterprises implementing automation and AI-based use cases have automated 30% of operational tasks over the past two years, with further automation expected. Upskilling, reskilling, and job role transitions will be crucial, as nearly two-thirds of employees anticipate changes to their job descriptions by 2028.

Capgemini Research Institute surveyed 1,607 executives from organisations with at least $1bn in global revenue. Respondents hailed from 15 countries and 13 industries, including supply chain, finance, customer operations, and AI ethics. The study also included interviews with 15 senior executives overseeing AI implementation in various sectors.

Read more: Agentic AI has arrived. Companies are still struggling to find out what it can do.