CFOs Are Eager to Accelerate AI Investments

Finance leaders are increasingly viewing artificial intelligence as a cornerstone of financial transformation. In a recent global survey of 400 senior finance executives, 78% expressed plans to boost their AI investments within the next 12 to 18 months.

However, this enthusiasm comes with conditions. Nearly half (48%) of respondents noted that any AI initiative failing to deliver measurable ROI within a year could jeopardize its continuation.

Operational Gains and Strategic Focus

The survey, conducted by FT Longitude and commissioned by Basware, highlights the tangible benefits CFOs have already seen from AI. More than three-fourths (76%) reported reductions in operational costs since implementing AI tools.

Cost efficiency emerged as the leading objective in finance transformation, with 55% of respondents listing it among their top three priorities. For 32%, it was the foremost goal. Another 45% emphasized innovation and leveraging emerging technologies, demonstrating the dual focus on efficiency and forward-looking strategies.

Workforce Impact and AI Adoption

AI's influence extends beyond operational savings. Seventy percent of finance leaders stated that employees are eager for AI tools to alleviate administrative burdens, and 75% indicated that AI has freed their teams to concentrate on strategic initiatives.

Despite these benefits, obstacles remain. Two in five CFOs cited challenges with change management during complex transformations, while 33% pointed to insufficient capital. Additional barriers include outdated legacy systems, compliance hurdles, and difficulty in proving ROI for AI investments.

The ROI Imperative

The emphasis on ROI is shaping how CFOs approach AI adoption. Without clear and measurable financial benefits, organizations are hesitant to sustain AI projects. As such, companies are prioritizing use cases with the greatest potential for cost reduction and operational gains.

Basware’s report notes that financial leaders are well-versed in evaluating investment opportunities, tracking costs, and measuring returns. Proving ROI early on lays the groundwork for securing future investments, enabling organizations to tackle more ambitious AI projects.

Proven Areas of Success

AI’s impact is already evident in core finance functions. The most significant returns have been achieved in areas such as financial planning and analysis, accounts payable, and accounts receivable.

Basware CFO Jason Kurtz highlighted the maturity of AI in these domains. “There’s so much buzz around AI right now that people think it’s new, but it’s actually been around for years, with use cases built into software that can add value in many different ways,” he explained.

Strategic Outlook

CFOs are optimistic about AI’s potential to drive financial transformation, but their investment strategies remain pragmatic. By focusing on measurable outcomes and overcoming implementation challenges, finance leaders can position AI as a lasting driver of value and innovation.