A recent study by Salesforce reveals a major shift in how Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) approach artificial intelligence (AI) in their organizations. The research shows that CFOs are moving beyond viewing AI merely as a cost-saving tool and are now embracing it as a strategic investment that drives long-term business growth. Over the past five years, the number of CFOs with a cautious AI strategy has sharply decreased from 70% in 2020 to just 4% in 2025, indicating a significant increase in confidence around the benefits AI can bring to a business.

The study also highlights that more than 60% of CFOs are changing the way they measure return on investment (ROI) for AI projects. Instead of focusing only on immediate financial gains, many are incorporating broader impacts such as improved customer experience, faster decision-making, and enhanced innovation capabilities into their evaluation of AI’s value. This shift reflects a growing recognition that AI can contribute to competitive advantage and digital transformation in ways that go beyond cost reduction.

CFOs are increasingly integrating AI across various parts of their organizations. According to the report, AI technologies are widely used in financial planning and analysis, risk management, fraud detection, and gaining customer insights. These applications allow finance teams to better forecast market trends, spot opportunities earlier, and improve operational efficiency. Automation of routine and repetitive tasks is freeing up finance professionals’ time, enabling them to focus on higher-value strategic activities.

Despite the enthusiasm, CFOs acknowledge challenges that come with AI adoption. Issues such as finding the right talent, addressing data privacy concerns, and managing organizational change remain top of mind. However, the majority of CFOs are proactively investing in AI and experimenting with different approaches to harness its potential. Leadership commitment is crucial, and those CFOs who actively promote AI initiatives tend to report stronger business results and better alignment with their company’s overall goals.

This Salesforce research underscores the evolving role of CFOs as key advocates for AI adoption, which signals a wider trend across organizations toward embedding AI in core business strategies. Business leaders including CEOs and CIOs should take note, as the CFO’s growing emphasis on AI highlights its importance not just as a technology but as a driver of business growth and innovation. Companies that hesitate to invest strategically in AI risk falling behind in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

Salesforce has long been at the forefront of tracking technological trends, and this latest report offers valuable insights into how AI is reshaping financial leadership worldwide. As CFOs move from cautious adopters to committed investors, their organizations stand to benefit from accelerated innovation and enhanced competitive positioning. The message is clear: to succeed in today’s dynamic market, embracing AI as a core part of business strategy is essential.