Three Out Of Four UK CFOs Say AI Will Improve Businesses Despite Global Uncertainty, Report

Artificial

intelligence has often drawn global attention from the world leaders because of the job loss risks it brings along with the increased productivity. Now it is becoming a reason for confidence in Britain. A new survey from Deloitte shows that most finance chiefs in the UK now believe AI can help improve business performance, even as companies continue to deal with global tensions, rising costs and economic uncertainty.

AI Optimism Reaches A New High

The survey first highlighted by Reuters found that finance leaders across major UK companies are becoming more positive about the role of AI in business. According to the survey, 73 per cent of chief financial officers (CFOs) believe AI will improve their companies’ performance. This marks a sharp rise from 59 per cent at the end of 2025 and 39 per cent two years ago, showing how quickly confidence in the technology has grown. The findings suggest that AI is now being viewed as a practical business tool rather than just an emerging technology. Many companies expect it to improve efficiency, support decision-making and strengthen overall business operations.

Geopolitical Concerns Ease Slightly

While global tensions remain a concern, finance executives appear to be less worried than they were earlier this year. On a scale of 0 to 100, the average level of concern about geopolitical risks fell to 68, down from 79 at the beginning of 2026. The report suggests that businesses have become somewhat more comfortable navigating international uncertainty, although risks have not disappeared completely. The survey found that concerns about the UK’s weak productivity and lack of competitiveness remained largely unchanged, with an average score of 63. At the same time, worries about rising energy prices and possible disruptions to energy supplies eased. The concern level dropped to 60, compared with 70 in the final quarter of 2026. This survey paints a picture of finance leaders who are still watching global risks closely but are increasingly placing their faith in AI. While global organisations, including the UN flags various AI risks, big tech continue to accelerate their pace in AI adoption.