A majority of CFOs are prioritising technology investments in 2025, with 77% planning to increase spending, according to a new survey from Gartner. The study, conducted between September and October 2024, surveyed 301 senior finance executives.
The survey found that 47% of respondents expect to raise technology budgets by 10% or more, while another 30% anticipate moderate increases of 4% to 9%. Meanwhile, 14% foresee a slight decrease, and 6% expect to cut IT spending by 10% or more. The findings highlight a continued shift towards digital transformation, as organisations invest in automation, AI-driven decision-making, and cloud infrastructure to enhance operational efficiency and long-term scalability.
Despite increased technology investments, CFOs are slowing compensation growth. The survey indicates that 50% of finance leaders plan to raise average employee pay by 4% to 9%, while only 11% expect increases of 10% or more, a decline from 16% in 2023. Meanwhile, 37% of respondents anticipate no change in employee pay, reflecting a more cautious approach to salary adjustments.
“The continued focus on technology aligns with developments in traditional and generative AI, which promise to drive new offerings, enhance decision-making, and boost productivity,” said Gartner Finance practice research distinguished vice president Randeep Rathindran. “Although the cooling labour market gives organisations more negotiating power on compensation, CFOs should remain sensitised to the potential risks of attrition and low engagement as prices for household necessities remain stubbornly high.”
Beyond technology and compensation, CFOs are adjusting budgets in other operational areas. In cost of goods sold (COGS), 24% of finance leaders expect to increase spending by 10% or more, while 36% anticipate a 4% to 9% rise. Another 29% foresee no change, while 12% expect reductions. Staff headcount plans reflect similar trends, with 24% of CFOs preparing to expand their workforce by 10% or more, 31% expecting a 4% to 9% increase, and 29% maintaining current levels. However, 16% anticipate workforce reductions, with 7% planning cuts of 10% or more.
Spending on external services remains mixed, with 25% of finance leaders increasing budgets by 10% or more, while 27% plan moderate increases. However, 23% anticipate reducing these expenditures, signalling a potential shift towards in-house solutions or cost-cutting measures. Contractor and facilities budgets face downward pressure, with 22% of CFOs raising contractor spending by 10% or more, while 16% expect to reduce these costs by the same margin. Meanwhile, 15% of respondents plan to cut facilities budgets by 10% or more, while 16% foresee major increases.
CFOs’ commitment to technology investment reflects a broader trend of sustained digital spending. In 2024, 50% of finance leaders had planned to increase IT budgets by 10% or more, and 43% had done so in 2023. The ongoing shift towards AI, cloud computing, and automation underscores the role of technology in driving business resilience and efficiency.
CFOs to take measured approach to AI and digital investments in 2025
While technology spending remains a priority for CFOs in 2025, a Bridgepoint Consulting survey highlights a cautious approach to AI adoption. Nearly 46.3% of the surveyed CFOs across the US see generative AI benefiting the workforce, but 43.9% remain uncertain. CFOs plan modest increases in ERP, cloud solutions, and business intelligence, selectively investing in technologies that meet immediate business needs while evaluating long-term return on investment (ROI). Operational efficiency and slight cost reductions are cited as primary drivers of AI adoption rather than direct revenue impact. Companies are also prioritising staff training to ensure employees can effectively leverage new digital tools.
Private equity deal-making remains slow, with only 14% reporting increased activity, reflecting a focus on stability. Bridgepoint Consulting’s findings suggest that CFOs should run AI pilot programmes, prioritise digital infrastructure, and strengthen existing investments before expansion. A measured approach to AI and cloud adoption is expected to enhance efficiency while maintaining financial stability in the evolving market.
Read more: 98.4% of organisations to expand AI and data investments in 2025
