What's Happening?
Protiviti's recent international study reveals that data security and privacy, along with strategic planning, are the top priorities for CFOs and senior finance leaders in 2026. This trend continues from previous years, reflecting the increasing importance of responsible data management in a digital world fraught with cyber threats and regulatory challenges. The study also notes the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in finance, with 72% of finance departments now utilizing AI technologies. Despite this, AI ranks only thirteenth in priority for CFOs, who are more focused on data governance and strategic planning. The research, which surveyed nearly a thousand finance professionals globally, underscores the need for robust data governance to mitigate
risks associated with AI, such as data bias and privacy breaches.
Why It's Important?
The emphasis on data security and strategic planning highlights the evolving role of CFOs as strategic partners in business. As digital transformation accelerates, the ability to manage data responsibly becomes crucial to maintaining operational resilience and compliance with regulations. The findings suggest that while AI adoption is growing, its integration into finance functions is still in the early stages, with many organizations experimenting rather than implementing comprehensive AI strategies. This cautious approach reflects the broader challenges CFOs face, balancing technological advancements with regulatory compliance and long-term planning. The focus on strategic planning also indicates a shift towards more proactive financial management, aiming to enhance decision-making and profitability.
What's Next?
As organizations continue to adopt AI, the focus will likely shift towards developing more integrated AI strategies that align with broader business goals. This may involve scaling AI applications beyond process automation to areas like financial forecasting and risk management. CFOs will need to navigate the complexities of AI implementation while ensuring data security and compliance with evolving regulations. The ongoing emphasis on strategic planning suggests that finance leaders will increasingly collaborate with other business units to drive growth and innovation. As AI maturity varies across organizations, those that successfully integrate AI into their operations may gain a competitive edge in the market.
