CFOs Double Down on AI and Cybersecurity as Tariffs Emerge as Major New Threat

Core Insights - The 2025 CFO Priorities Annual Survey indicates that tariffs and trade barriers have become a significant concern for CFOs, with 66% anticipating negative impacts on their organizations, a notable shift from previous years [1][5][6] - Profitability remains the top priority for CFOs at 34%, followed closely by cybersecurity and economic uncertainty, both at 27% [5][6] - The survey highlights a decisive shift in CFOs' focus towards technology adoption, particularly AI and cybersecurity, as they seek to enhance operational efficiency and resilience [3][6] Profitability and Strategic Priorities - Profitability is the primary concern for CFOs, holding steady at 34%, while cybersecurity and economic uncertainty are tied at 27% [5] - On board agendas, profitability dominates at 63%, with technology transformation at 38% and competitive advantage at 37%, indicating a shift from previous focuses on digitalization and staff retention [5] - Two-thirds of CFOs expect negative impacts from tariffs, a significant increase from the previous year's focus on inflation [5] Tariffs Create New Complexity - Only 29% of CFOs report having the necessary skills and processes to comply with new tariff regulations, while 43% are still developing internal solutions [5] - The rising complexity due to tariffs is reshaping financial strategies and priorities among CFOs [6] Headcount Growth Returns - Nearly half of CFOs (45%) plan to increase finance headcount in the next quarter, marking a 19% rise from 2024, with 65% expecting growth over the next 12-24 months [5] - The expanding role of finance and increased focus on risk management are driving this hiring momentum [5] AI Acceleration and the Shift to Execution - AI has transitioned from exploration to execution, with 96% of organizations now engaging with AI, and 42% using it operationally [5] - There is a significant increase in the number of CFOs seeking external support for AI implementation, rising from 17% in 2024 to 59% [5] Cybersecurity: Rising Engagement Amid Growing Threats - Nearly three-quarters of CFOs (73%) are now involved in cyber strategy, with half deeply engaged in both strategy and response [12] - Confidence in cyber prevention and mitigation has declined to 43%, reflecting a shift in focus from prevention to response readiness due to unpredictable cyber threats [12]