In today’s digital era, the rapid advancement in technologies such as digital currencies, blockchain, and the burgeoning fintech sector are transforming the financial landscape. Coupled with increasing cybersecurity threats and heightened customer expectations for personalized services, these changes are leading to increased competition and complexity.
Gartner Finance, through a survey of 250 CFOs and finance leaders during “The Top Priorities for CFOs in 2025” webinar, uncovered that slower top-line growth and talent retention are perceived as the most pressing challenges for enterprise performance by 2025. The evolving financial landscape necessitates CFOs to proficiently communicate data-driven insights and adopt new technologies.
According to Alexander Bant, Chief of Research at Gartner Finance practice, CFOs are endeavoring to streamline their finance functions to finance two emerging skill sets needed for the future. The ongoing digital integration across various sectors has led to a shortage of specialized talent in data analytics, technology, and finance, thereby exacerbating retention issues for CFOs.
The pandemic-driven transition to remote and hybrid work models has intensified the competition for top talent. To combat these challenges, CFOs are urged to devise strategies to improve employee development, work-life balance, engagement, and compensation.
Key Survey Insights on Enterprise Performance Challenges in 2025
Slower top-line growth: 19%
Talent retention: 18%
Strategic alignment and execution gaps: 17%
Rising costs: 15%
Data quality: 14%
AI strategy and implementation: 9%
Political and regulatory shifts: 8%
To safeguard top-line growth, CFOs are advised to embrace five core practices outlined by Gartner:
Cycle discipline ensures resilience during market fluctuations.
Eradicating growth anchors that inadvertently divert resources.
Cultivating an environment that fosters overperformance.
Balancing cost-cutting measures without stifling growth.
Simplifying product offerings to enhance efficiency.
Emphasizing revenue innovation and workforce development is crucial for CFOs to navigate future challenges. Organizations are encouraged to pursue digital transformation, data-driven decision-making, and foster a culture of innovation to remain adaptive and competitive.
As highlighted by Arjun Mahajan, Chief of Client Partnerships at AND Digital, attracting talent skilled in data analysis enables finance teams to streamline functions and generate actionable insights. Financial institutions must adopt a people-centric innovation approach, focusing on equipping staff with essential digital skills to withstand market pressures and enhance overall productivity.
Explore the latest edition of FinTech Magazine and join the conversation at our global conference series, FinTech LIVE. Secure your tickets and participate in upcoming events to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving financial sector.
More Articles
Getting licensed or staying ahead in your career can be a journey—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Grab your favorite coffee or tea, take a moment to relax, and browse through our articles. Whether you’re just starting out or renewing your expertise, we’ve got tips, insights, and advice to keep you moving forward. Here’s to your success—one sip and one step at a time!
After nearly 20 years under uniquely harsh lending rules, Florida may finally see its condo market freed from a 25% down payment requirement imposed only on the state. Industry leaders say Fannie Mae could announce changes as early as December—potentially restoring the standard 10% down payment used everywhere else in the country. Experts believe the shift would boost maintenance funding, improve affordability, and stabilize Florida’s condo market after years of strain.
Phoenix’s commercial real estate market is shaking off years of uncertainty as broker optimism hits its highest level since interest rates began climbing. The latest ASU Commercial Broker Sentiment Index soared to 62.7, signaling strong confidence across multifamily, retail, office, and capital markets. With population growth accelerating, interest rates easing, and AI boosting industry efficiency, Phoenix is positioning itself for a powerful run into 2026—offering meaningful opportunities for both new and seasoned real estate professionals.
Michigan’s House Rules Committee heard testimony on a proposal that would let licensed professionals complete all required continuing education online. Supporters say the change would modernize outdated rules, reduce costs, and improve access for rural and busy workers. The state licensing department backs the measure, and lawmakers noted it could reshape CE options across industries from real estate to insurance and healthcare.
Florida homeowners are now paying an average of $5,838 per year for insurance — nearly $3,000 above the national average — making it one of the most expensive states in the country. As premiums continue to triple for some residents, many are being forced into tough decisions, from delaying home improvements to dropping coverage altogether. With more than 40% of claims closed with no payment and lawmakers pushing for aggressive reforms, the crisis is reshaping Florida’s housing market and placing growing pressure on real estate, mortgage, and insurance professionals statewide.
Griffin Funding has elevated John Jones to Senior Vice President of Growth and EOS Integrator, marking a major step in the company’s long-term expansion strategy. Already a key operational leader since April 2025, Jones will now drive performance optimization, market expansion, and leadership development as the lender pursues an ambitious goal of reaching $3 billion in annual non-QM loan volume by 2030. His promotion underscores Griffin Funding’s commitment to scaling strategically while strengthening its position in the fast-growing non-QM space.
Despite recent Federal Reserve rate cuts, commercial real estate remains frozen. Long‑term Treasury yields continue to climb, keeping borrowing costs high and preventing the relief investors expected. With nearly $1 trillion in commercial loans coming due, refinancing at today’s elevated rates is squeezing owners, slowing transactions, and creating a widening gap between buyers and sellers. For patient, well‑capitalized investors, this period of recalibration may offer some of the strongest opportunities in years.
