Finance Leaders Share 2025 Economic Outlook and What’s Next for Financial Teams
As we inch closer to 2025, finance teams across industries are rethinking their game plans. With the economy showing signs of change, and digital tools transforming how finance operates, many professionals are asking: What should we focus on next year? If you’ve been wondering the same, you’re not alone.
According to a recent report from Prophix, a whopping 78% of finance leaders expect the economy to stay the same or improve by 2025. That’s good news! But with this optimism comes a new set of challenges — and opportunities.
So, What’s the Outlook for 2025?
Let’s start with the big picture. The study shows that most finance professionals expect a steady or slightly better economy in the coming year. Compared to the past few years — marked by inflation, supply chain problems, and global uncertainty — that’s a refreshing change.
But here’s the catch: Only 25% of finance leaders feel “very prepared” to handle what’s coming. That means there’s still a lot of uncertainty when it comes to managing rising costs, data overload, and shifting business priorities.
Why the Optimism?
Part of the positive outlook comes from how finance teams have adapted over the past few years. Many have become more resilient, agile, and digitally savvy. They’ve gotten smarter about forecasting, budgeting, and scenario planning. In short, they’ve leveled up.
Still, challenges like managing costs and staying efficient haven’t disappeared. If anything, they’ve become more urgent.
Top Challenges Financial Teams Expect to Face in 2025
So, what exactly are finance leaders keeping a close eye on as 2025 approaches? According to the report, some common themes have emerged:
- Managing costs: Staying profitable while prices are rising and competition is intense.
- Improving efficiency: Streamlining workflows and removing bottlenecks in daily operations.
- Accessing better data: Getting reliable, real-time insights for smarter decision-making.
- Planning for risk: Being ready for surprises — from market shifts to unexpected expenses.
Have you ever tried driving in a fog with low beams on? That’s what it can feel like trying to plan a budget or make investment decisions without the right data. That’s why more financial leaders are focusing on improving visibility and data accessibility.
Main Priorities for CFOs and Finance Leaders in 2025
To stay ahead, finance professionals are prioritizing three key areas:
1. Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) Is the New MVP
For those unfamiliar, FP&A involves tasks like budgeting, forecasting, and analyzing financial performance. It’s how companies make informed choices about spending and investments.
In 2025, FP&A isn’t just important — it’s essential. More than 50% of finance leaders say they’ll be putting greater emphasis on strategic planning and scenario modeling. This means running through “what-if” situations to prepare for different financial outcomes.
Think of it like weather forecasting for your business: the more data you have, the better you can prepare for storms.
2. Embracing Automation and AI
Imagine if a few clicks could save your finance team hours of grunt work. That future is here, and top-performing finance departments are seizing it.
Many are turning to automation and artificial intelligence (AI) to cut down on repetitive tasks. We’re talking about:
- Automated data entry
- Real-time reporting
- Smart forecasting
- Error detection
The result? Teams gain time for higher-level thinking. Instead of chasing numbers, they’re now interpreting trends and advising business strategy.
However, the report notes a gap: while many organizations want to use AI, fewer are actually doing it well. This highlights a need for better training and clearer strategies for rolling out new tech.
3. Building Cross-Team Collaboration
Money impacts every part of a business — from sales to HR to operations. That’s why it’s no surprise that finance teams are putting more effort into working closely with other departments.
In the past, finance might have been seen as the team with spreadsheets tucked away in the back office. But in 2025, they’ll be more visible than ever — helping teams align their goals and make data-driven decisions.
This shift also means helping non-financial teams understand the numbers better. Communication will be just as important as calculation.
Key Traits of High-Performing Finance Teams
So what separates the best from the rest? According to the report, top finance teams tend to have a few things in common:
- Modern tools: They use cloud-based solutions that connect data and make reporting easier.
- Strong leadership: Their CFOs are strategic, communicative, and tech-savvy.
- Agile planning: They quickly adapt when conditions change – without hitting the panic button.
- Actionable insights: They don’t just gather data — they use it to make smart choices.
It’s kind of like comparing a flip phone to a smartphone. Both technically work, but one is going to make your life way easier.
What Can Your Team Do to Prepare?
If you’re in finance, or work closely with a finance department, 2025 doesn’t have to be scary — it can actually be exciting. Start by asking yourself a few questions:
- Do we have the right tools for forecasting and analysis?
- How much time are we spending on manual tasks we could automate?
- Are we using our data effectively?
- How well do different departments collaborate with finance?
Then, take small, smart steps toward improvement. Adopt a new FP&A system, invest in training, or try pilot programs for automation. Even modest changes can have a big impact over time.
Final Thoughts: Finance’s Role Is Evolving
One thing is clear: finance teams are no longer just number-crunchers. In 2025 and beyond, they’re strategic partners driving growth, guiding innovation, and planning for the unexpected.
With the right mindset and tools, financial leaders are well-positioned to turn challenges into opportunities.
So, is your team ready for the future?
Now’s the time to take action — because tomorrow’s success starts with today’s preparation.
Looking Ahead
For more insights into how financial teams are preparing for 2025, check out Prophix’s full report on their blog. Whether you’re a CFO or just getting started in finance, it offers valuable recommendations that can guide your strategy.
And if you found this blog helpful, don’t forget to share it with your team — or better yet, start a conversation about how your organization can prepare for the financial road ahead.
