CFOs in 2024 seemed focused on preparing for interest rate changes, managing inflation, and the anticipation of a significant increase in capital markets activity, which didn’t really materialize.  So many now ponder what 2025 will bring?

As John C. Maxwell once said, “Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.”

I tend to agree with the quote and believe CFOs will spend most of 2025 focused on managing change. Interest rate policy appears to be stabilizing, and we have more clarity on the objectives of the new presidential administration. Questions remain about whether policy changes will tame inflationary pressures, deregulation will lead to continued economic growth, and clear the path for capital markets activity.

What are some of the items on the CFO’s change agenda for 2025?

• Navigating inflationary pressures
• Leveraging AI to support organizational objectives
• Managing AI investments
• Evaluating the impact of tariffs
• Capitalizing on deregulation
• Strategizing around tax policy changes
• Optimizing capital structures in the current interest rate environment
• Executing an M&A strategy in an active market
• Navigating changes in immigration policy

One could say there’s no time like the present to prepare for change.

Corporate chiefs spent much of the year concerned about inflation and the U.S. election and generally focused on how to wring more operational efficiencies out of their organizations. While 2025 brings more clarity ahead on many fronts, one constant remains: managing change.

https://www.wsj.com/articles/from-m-a-to-ai-how-cfos-are-mapping-out-the-year-ahead-9e0f73a9?mod=djemCFO