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The accounting landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace with emerging technologies, shifting workforce dynamics, and new operational demands—all of which impact the way accounting teams operate, and businesses achieve growth goals.
Based on the data found in the Office of the CFO reports from Piper Sandler, we’ve compiled the top trends shaping the future of accounting that organizations must embrace to stay competitive:
1. The CFO as a Strategic Leader
Gone are the days when the CFO’s role was limited to being a “scorekeeper.” Today, CFOs are no longer working in silos or scrambling to provide retroactive financial reports. They’re driving business strategy, innovation, and growth, and are at the forefront of the tech-revolution for finance. In 2025, this shift will deepen as CFOs rely on real-time financial data, AI-driven insights, and integrated tools to make informed decisions. Companies—regardless of size or industry—must make this shift to achieve growth and stay competitive. And, finance teams need to align to a more strategic vision to create value beyond the balance sheet.
2. Rising Labor Costs and Talent Shortages
With 75% of the CPA workforce nearing retirement and a shrinking pool of new talent entering the field, accounting leaders face a critical challenge. Rising labor costs are prompting businesses to invest in automation to maintain productivity while still seeking to attract younger accounting talent. Upskilling current employees, fostering a culture of flexibility, and leveraging advanced tools will be essential to bridge the talent gap.
3. The AI Revolution is Here
Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept for the world of accounting. In fact, accounting and finance is predicted to be one of the top areas impacted by AI in 2025. From touchless financial closes to predictive analytics, AI is enabling teams to streamline processes, reduce errors, and focus on strategic tasks. However, organizations must navigate challenges like data integrity and siloed software solutions to maximize AI’s potential while minimizing risks.
4. The Great Rebundling
Siloed systems are becoming a thing of the past as companies adopt unified platforms that consolidate financial tools. This “Great Rebundling” simplifies operations, eliminates inefficiencies, and enhances data accuracy. By integrating systems like accounting, CRM, and spend management, organizations can create a seamless flow of information that empowers better decision-making.
5. The Rise of Embedded Finance
Embedded finance is changing the way businesses manage their operations. By integrating financial services like payments, invoicing, and cash flow forecasting directly into software platforms, companies can reduce friction and improve collaboration between accounting, operations, and sales teams. In 2025, embedded finance is expected to play a central role in improving processes and driving faster collaboration between departments.
What should you do now?
These trends aren’t just shaping the future—they’re already here. To stay ahead, accounting leaders must embrace these shifts, invest in the right technologies, and foster a culture of innovation within their teams. By doing so, they can turn challenges into opportunities and position their organizations for success in 2025 and beyond.
To help you make the most out of 2025, here are a collection of our top resources:
- Data Accuracy: Stop Questioning, Start Actioning
- The Guide to AR Automation: Save 52 hours every month
- The Guide to AP Automation: Spend 80% less time paying bills
- Is your accounting data AI-ready?
To take a deeper dive, watch our on-demand webinar, “Accounting and AI trends for 2025 and beyond.”
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