- 67% of finance professionals feel better prepared for economic uncertainty compared to 2020.
- 86% express concerns over the current economic climate, with 50% very worried about a recession.
- 83% face supplier cost increases due to inflation, prompting increased focus on technology investments.
AvidXchange (AVDX, Financial) has released its 2025 Economic Sentiment Survey, showcasing that 67% of finance professionals report being better prepared for handling economic uncertainty now than in 2020. This improved readiness is largely attributed to increased technology adoption and hard-earned experience over recent years.
Despite this growing confidence, 86% of respondents remain concerned about the state of the economy, with 50% expressing strong worries about the possibility of a recession. Moreover, 83% of finance professionals have reported experiencing supplier cost hikes driven by inflation, and 52% note that tariffs have significantly impacted their forecasts.
To counter these challenges, finance teams are actively investing in technology. The survey indicated that 48% are focusing on AI and machine learning, 44% are prioritizing security and compliance tools, while 36% are investing in collaboration solutions. These investments are crucial as finance teams transition from operational support roles to strategic leadership positions.
The survey sheds light on how, amid ongoing economic volatility expected to continue into 2026, finance professionals are shifting from a reactive stance to a more proactive one. By leveraging technology, they are not only cutting costs but also enhancing the speed and intelligence of business decisions, with 72% acknowledging the positive return on investment from pandemic-era technology tools.
Ultimately, as finance leaders embrace their roles as strategists, the focus has broadened to include scenario planning and strengthening supplier relations, indicating a proactive mindset that could steer businesses through future uncertainties effectively.
