AI agents are becoming essential for businesses, but a survey of over 800 global data leaders reveals significant challenges. Trust, explainability, and strategic misalignments are hindering the impact of AI. Many leaders recognize that while AI has potential, current practices often fall short. The report highlights the urgent need for organizations to address these gaps to fully leverage AI's capabilities and improve performance by 2025. Specific risks identified include fragile foundations in AI implementation and a lack of coherent strategies that align with business goals. Leaders express concern that these issues may lead to misalignment between AI initiatives and organizational objectives. This disconnect can stall progress and reduce the measurable benefits that AI can provide. The report calls for a reassessment of current approaches to ensure that AI delivers real value. The findings suggest that without immediate corrections, businesses will struggle to harness AI effectively. The report serves as a wake-up call for organizations to re-evaluate their strategies and prioritize trust and transparency in AI systems. Addressing these fundamental issues is critical for data leaders aiming to maximize the potential of AI in their operations.