Business ranks as the most trusted institution globally, with trust even higher at the workplace level, according to the latest Edelman Trust Barometer. The data points to a broader shift in where individuals place confidence—moving closer to employers and personal networks.
Respondents report high levels of confidence in their own employers, pointing to a shift in where individuals look for information, leadership, and stability. Trust is increasingly concentrated in “my employer” and close personal networks, rather than broader institutions.
More broadly, trust is becoming more localized—and in some cases, more limited. The survey found that 7 in 10 people globally say they are hesitant or unwilling to trust individuals who hold different views, rely on different information sources, or come from different backgrounds.
That shift is reflected in how trust is formed. Trust has increased most within individuals’ immediate circles—including coworkers and CEOs—reinforcing the move toward more localized sources of trust.
At the same time, there is a growing focus on bridging divides, with employers standing out as a trusted and reliable source and viewed as performing more strongly than other institutions in building trust—reflecting the close, day-to-day connection they have with employees.
Economic conditions are also shaping perceptions. Concerns about rising costs, job security, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence are contributing to a more cautious outlook. The report also points to widening trust gaps between income groups, affecting how individuals view opportunity and long-term stability.
In this environment, the workplace is playing a larger role in how individuals interpret change, with employers often seen as a source of steady leadership.
The 26th annual Edelman Trust Barometer surveyed more than 33,000 adults across 28 countries to measure trust and credibility across institutions.
View the full report here.