CFOs Prioritize Technology Transformation for Finance in 2026 Deloitte Survey

CFOs Focus on Technology Transformation for 2026

A recent survey conducted by Deloitte, the Q4 2025 CFO Signals report, reveals that technology transformation is high on the agenda for Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) as we approach 2026. The survey reflects a significant shift in priorities, with the digital transformation of finance being reported as the top priority by 50% of North American CFOs.

The Rise of Automation

CFOs are increasingly recognizing the importance of automating processes within their finance departments. A staggering 49% of respondents indicated that freeing up employees from mundane tasks to focus on higher-value work is crucial for talent management in the coming year. With the landscape of finance evolving, automation appears to be the answer to improving operational efficiency and performance.

Artificial Intelligence Takes Center Stage

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expected to play an essential role in the finance departments of organizations in 2026. According to the survey results, an impressive 87% of CFOs believe that AI will be either extremely or very important to their operations. This signifies a growing trust in AI as a means to enhance financial processes and decision-making.

Moreover, over half (54%) of CFOs indicated that integrating AI agents into finance departments is a primary focus for their transformation strategies. These advancements are expected to streamline workflows, allowing finance teams to adapt to changing market dynamics quickly.

Adapting to Changes in Customer Behavior

In addition to technological advancements, the report highlights a need for CFOs to address evolving customer behaviors and demographics. Nearly 48% of CFOs said changes in these areas would likely impact their companies' financial performance in the near future. This awareness indicates that CFOs are not only managing internal processes but are also keenly aware of external influences affecting business outcomes.

Leveraging Internal Talent

To manage labor costs effectively, about 49% of CFOs plan to promote talent from within their organizations in 2026. This strategy not only helps in cost management but also fosters employee development and loyalty within the company.

Interest in Mergers and Acquisitions

The climate for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) looks promising, with 63% of CFOs showing a keen interest in pursuing more deals in 2026 compared to 2025. This trend reflects optimism in the market, as CFOs are looking to capitalize on growth opportunities during this transformative period.

A Renewed Confidence

Deloitte's survey also recorded a rise in CFO confidence, with the CFO Confidence Score increasing to 6.6 in Q4 2025, a peak not seen since late 2021. This increased confidence is accompanied by a higher willingness among CFOs to embrace risks, with nearly 59% expressing that now is a favorable time to take calculated risks.

Key Insights

Steve Gallucci, U.S. leader of Deloitte's CFO Program, emphasized the importance of advanced technologies like AI in enabling companies to respond swiftly to changing market dynamics. He suggested that uncertainty could continue to be a theme in 2026; however, CFOs who prepare accordingly will be well-positioned to leverage emerging opportunities.

In conclusion, the Deloitte Q4 2025 CFO Signals report paints a compelling picture of the strategic landscape CFOs will navigate in 2026. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the demands and priorities of finance leaders, making this an exciting period of transformation within the field.