Board agendas should continue to evolve in 2018 as the game-changing implications of technology/digital innovation, scrutiny of corporate culture, growing demands to address environmental and social issues, and investor expectations for greater board engagement and diversity and long-term performance all drive a sharper focus on positioning the company for the future. Combined with uncertainty around trade and infrastructure policies, and geopolitical tensions at precarious levels, the year ahead will require a careful balance of near-term focus, agility, and long-term thinking.

Drawing on insights from their work and interactions with directors and business leaders over the past 12 months, KPMG highlighted six items for boards to consider in their 2018 agendas—on the critical challenges at-hand and on the road ahead.

• Help the company keeps its eye on the ball: long-term value creation.
• Expect disruption to continue full-force with technology and “digital” at its core.
• Be particularly sensitive to risks posed by the tone at the top and culture throughout the organization.
• Learn to live with cyber risk and refine boardroom discussions about cyber risk and security.
• Promote effective shareholder engagement, including engagement with activists.
• Focus on building a board that is fit for purpose looking forward, recognizing that diversity and healthy turnover are key.

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