⏵︎ ⏵︎ ⏵︎ Charting the Future: How CFOs Are Navigating Change with Technology and Foresight Dive into the results of the 2025 Global Finance Trends Report 5 min read Finance leaders around the world are meeting the challenges of economic and geopolitical volatility head-on by leveraging advanced technologies, especially AI, and strengthening their financial planning and analysis strategies. Our latest Global Finance Trends Survey reveals that CFOs are prioritising data security, cross-functional collaboration, and agile decision-making to help their organisations remain resilient and responsive in a fast- changing landscape.The survey highlights how finance teams are optimising processes through automation, refining forecasting with real-time data, and confidently steering their enterprises through uncertainty. With an expanded set of responsibilities and a growing reliance on innovative tools, today’s CFOs are setting new standards for transparency, strategic vision, and organisational agility. Download report Watch webinar series View infographic Agile finance leaders are redefining resilience with technology Key Findings Key Themes Economic Stability Accelerating AI FP&A Optimisation Technology Enablement Cybersecurity Challenges Economic Stability Economic stability amid tariffs, volatility Finance is the voice of reason Finance teams are navigating ongoing economic uncertainty and shifting tariffs with improved FP&A and strategic planning capabilities, skills sharpened during the global pandemic. CFOs remain confident in their ability to adapt quickly to new challenges affecting profitability and reporting.The adoption of automation, AI, and technology has driven better cost management and forecasting, while data security and privacy continue to be top priorities. These innovations empower finance leaders to make agile decisions and collaborate more effectively, fostering transparency and resilience. As organisations embrace new tools, finance stands at the center of modern business, driving innovation and setting fresh standards for responsiveness in a volatile environment. Accelerating AI Accelerating AI AI use in finance has risen dramatically AI adoption in finance is soaring, with 72% of leaders now using AI tools—up from 34% last year. Modern finance teams are applying AI for automation, forecasting, risk management, and compliance, quickly evolving from early trials to clear strategies that deliver results.Generative and agentic AI are transforming the field, enabling autonomous goal planning and smarter decision-making. By using advanced methods like task mining and process heat maps, CFOs are boosting efficiency and strategic value. This rapidly changing landscape is setting a new standard for holistic AI integration, positioning finance leaders at the forefront of innovation and business transformation. FP&A Optimisation FP&A optimisation is job one FP&A capabilities continue to deliver increasing value Finance teams are upgrading FP&A capabilities to meet the need for agile, data-driven decisions. With automation and cloud technology, cost savings are clear, but the real ROI comes as AI tools mature. CFOs are transforming FP&A from isolated tasks to collaborative, tech-powered processes that use quality data for smarter forecasting and dynamic scenario planning.Predictive analytics are now at the heart of strategy, supporting innovation across procurement and supply chains. As economic uncertainty continues, these advances help finance leaders optimise costs, boost resilience, and drive long-term growth. The future of finance is connected, strategic, and ready for any challenge. Technology Enablement Technology enablement is foundational Technology enablement is paying dividends A robust technology foundation is essential for finance organisations to remain agile and resilient, enabling insight and strategic action. Cloud solutions and automation are driving impressive gains in cost savings and efficiency, while early-stage AI and machine learning are just beginning to show results. Upgrading outdated systems is essential—legacy tech slows progress and racks up technical debt.Forward-thinking CFOs are embracing cloud migration, advanced analytics, and better data quality to keep pace with business changes. Technology enablement underpins smarter operations and strategic decision-making, helping finance leaders excel in today’s complex environment. Modernisation isn’t just an upgrade—it’s the key to unlocking operational excellence and future growth for finance organisations. Cybersecurity Challenges New challenges on the cybersecurity front Security and privacy of data remains the top priority CFOs are making data security and privacy a top priority amid rapid technology modernization, especially as AI adoption accelerates. The adoption of AI brings new cybersecurity challenges, such as sophisticated threats and risks from cybercriminals using AI tools. With growing and evolving regulations from agencies like the SEC and EU, finance leaders are working closely with security teams to manage third-party risks and keep up with compliance requirements. Recent data shows that many cybersecurity incidents involve outside partners, making strong governance and oversight critical.As technology advances, quality data and robust regulatory awareness are essential for protecting organizations and building long-term resilience. Keep pace with the dynamic world of finance Key links Additional Insights Key links Download the report Join our webinar series Finance Transformation Services CFO Insights Explore our AI Studio CFO Top Risks Additional Insights Navigating New Tarriffs ERP Whitepaper Agentic AI Cost Optimisation Public Company FAQs AI Pulse Survey ✕ Scroll to top Overview Key Findings Key Themes Key Links Leadership Scott Bolderson Scott leads the Business Performance Improvement solution in the UK. Prior to this Scott was a part of the Protiviti Technology Consulting solution and spent over 15 years helping to grow this solution.Scott joined the firm in 2004 to help launch the UK business, prior ... Learn more Charlie Newman Charlie Newman is Managing Director for Protiviti and a member of Protiviti UK's senior leadership team. Charlie has extensive experience working with a variety of client organisations to enhance their business performance through creation & delivery of successful ... 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