Despite persistent macroeconomic headwinds, Chief Financial Officers are expressing cautious optimism about their companies' financial health, according to professional services firm RGP's newest survey CFO Perspectives: Risk, Growth and the Future of Finance.

Why it matters: The findings provide a clear roadmap of where large enterprises plan to focus their capital and strategic efforts in the coming year. For the consulting industry, this points to sustained demand in digital transformation, operational efficiency, AI implementation and M&A advisory.

The big picture: While 70% of CFOs feel positive about their organization's current financial state, that optimism is tempered by significant external risks. The survey reveals that tariff and trade policies are a major concern for nearly all financial leaders.

  • 94% of CFOs surveyed are concerned about tariff and trade policies.
  • 63% believe supply chain disruptions are likely within the next 12 months.
  • In response, 68% are planning proactive cost cuts in other areas, while 44% are focused on diversifying their supply chains.
Zoom in: To navigate the uncertainty, CFOs are directing capital toward internal improvements and technology. Digital transformation and operational efficiency initiatives are the top priorities for investment.

  • 57% of CFOs are allocating the most capital to technology and digital transformation.
  • 57% are also prioritizing operational efficiency projects.
  • AI is a significant focus, with 40% of CFOs planning to commit more than 10% of their capital budgets to AI initiatives in the next year.
  • Optimism around AI is high, with 84% of CFOs feeling positive about its potential impact on their business in the next 12 months.
What to watch: The survey signals a potential rebound in deal-making, with half of all CFOs anticipating M&A activity in the next six months. The focus will be on strategic acquisitions to gain technology and capabilities.

"While regulatory scrutiny and lingering uncertainty add to the complexity of potential M&A activity, CFOs recognize that the success of any acquisition will hinge on integration excellence and cultural alignment,” said Bhadresh Patel, Chief Operating Officer at RGP.

By the numbers: The survey polled 202 senior financial decision-makers, including 63 CFOs, from U.S. companies with more than $500 million in annual revenue.

SOURCE: RGP

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