In this unpredictable situation, intelligence gathering is more important than ever. Conditions can change on short notice, which requires that management has a high degree of preparedness in order to be able to take rapid decisions and perform continuous adjustments to business models, operational processes and strategic plans.
For Swedish companies, it is therefore essential to keep their intelligence gathering alive and integrated into both corporate strategy and operational work. We have listed three areas that are particularly important to prioritise - and which should be included in every company's intelligence gathering analysis.
To effectively manage sudden changes, you need a clear overview and understanding of your company's contracts. By inventorying and analysing your contracts, you should gain clarity on whether you are responsible for costs and risks in the event of changing conditions, such as currency fluctuations, rising commodity prices or new trade barriers.
When conducting such a contract review, it is important to identify and understand the meaning of the following contract clauses in particular:
However, it is not enough to recognise the existence of the clauses. You will also need to understand how these clauses are applied in practice. This includes knowing when and how clauses can be invoked, whether formal notification is required, and what documentation is needed to demonstrate the right to apply the clause.
Another area where rapid change can have a major impact is the management of personal data transferred to the United States. As the regulatory framework for these transfers can change rapidly in the current environment, it is important to identify exactly which of your company's personal data is being transferred and what safeguards are in place.
In order to minimise the risks of sudden changes, we recommend that you consider alternative solutions with immediate effect, such as binding corporate rules. This may provide more control and stability in case of future changes. Above all, it is important to have a clear and flexible action plan to be able to adapt quickly to regulatory changes.
In addition to contracts and personal data, corporate supply chains are another area where change can quickly create challenges. In a climate where protectionist tendencies are on the rise and trade relations are rapidly changing, it is essential to have full control over transaction flows.
Accordingly, Swedish companies should actively survey their transaction chains and ensure that the right skills are in place to deal with export controls, customs and licensing requirements. Proactive and structured work on these issues provides a clear competitive advantage and reduces the risk of trade disruptions.
By integrating intelligence gathering into your operations, you create a more solid foundation on which to stand - even in an uncertain and rapidly changing world where conditions can change from one day to the next.
