PodChats for FutureCIO: AI-hybrid cloud: Asia’s next innovation engine

FutureCIO discussions with CIOs and business leaders in Asia reveal key trends such as strategies revolving around increased AI integration, hybrid cloud adoption for flexibility and compliance, and the growth of edge computing for real-time data processing. Organizations are also prioritizing sustainability and security, with a focus on green cloud solutions and robust compliance frameworks. Into 2026, FutureCIO polls suggest that the convergence of AI and hybrid cloud will further accelerate digital transformation and innovation across various industries. Among the key trends we anticipate to arise from these include the strategic adoption of AI-powered hybrid cloud solutions, the rise of AI-as-a-Service (AIaaS), and the increasing use of cloud-native applications and SaaS-based intelligent solutions. In this PodChats for FutureCIO, Sean Flanagan, IBM vice president for IBM Power and IBM Cloud Technical Sales shares his observations of the challenges businesses around the world face as they modernise their operations, supported by hybrid cloud infrastructure that is expected to be secure and dynamically adaptive to evolving demands and regulation.1.       What are the key considerations for workload placement between on-premises data centres and hybrid cloud environments?2.       Business leaders are demanding CIOs modernise current infrastructure to take advantage of the promise of AI. At the same time CIOs are asked to make sure new IT strategies support sustainability initiatives. How can we balance AI infrastructure growth with sustainability and energy efficiency goals?3.       Legacy applications continue to be at the core of many governments and businesses in Asia. IDC found that over 60% of applications in use today are legacy systems. What strategies can we adopt to modernise legacy applications and maximise developer productivity using AI-driven tools?4.       Are AI-powered tools better than the best experienced technology experts?5.       CFOs are increasingly focused on cost optimization within their cloud environments, calling for strategies to manage and reduce cloud spending effectively.  How do flexible consumption models, such as IBM Power Virtual Server, support business agility and cost control?6.       IDC estimates that over 77% of organisations in Asia Pacific operate in a multicloud or hybrid cloud environment. This trend will continue as wholesale transformation and modernisation become essential to evolving business models. Disruptions, both planned and unplanned are inevitable. How can business maximise availability of their IT services?7.       Given all the innovations to date, including the new IBM Power 11, what advise can you offer CIOs and business leaders in Asia as they look to better optimise their workloads regardless of where the applications are running?