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!
The average life insurance premium in 2026 sits at about 26 dollars per month for a healthy 40-year-old seeking a 20-year, 500,000 dollar term policy, according to recent industry data. Rates continue to be influenced by factors like age, health, and risk class, while certain personal details—such as marital status or number of beneficiaries—have no impact on pricing. With term, whole life, and no-exam options showing wide cost differences, professionals in real estate, insurance, mortgage, and finance can benefit from understanding how underwriting works. This knowledge not only helps with personal financial planning but also supports advising clients effectively in these interconnected industries.
AI is becoming a powerful partner for real estate agents, helping automate repetitive tasks like lead responses, follow ups, marketing content, and paperwork so you can focus on clients and closing deals. From 24/7 chat assistants to AI enhanced visuals and predictive analytics, agents using these tools are gaining a competitive edge without needing technical skills.
Florida’s housing market continues to outpace national growth, with several cities experiencing sharp jumps in home values driven by high demand and limited inventory. New data from Zillow highlights where price acceleration is strongest—from luxury enclaves like Golden Beach and Lake Buena Vista to more affordable markets such as Old Town. For real estate professionals, these insights spotlight emerging opportunities, shifting buyer behavior, and areas of rising investment interest across the state.
Baltimore is moving to close key loopholes in its rental licensing system after thousands of unlicensed and unsafe units came to light. A new city proposal would strengthen enforcement, increase audits, and protect tenants from negligent landlords. With nearly half of rentals still unlicensed, the reform highlights why compliance and ethical property management remain essential across the real estate industry.
Florida lawmakers have taken a major step toward helping homeowners understand rising insurance costs. The Florida House voted 114-0 to approve HB 767, a bill that would require insurers to publicly share more of the data behind their rate increases. While the bill doesn’t limit premiums, it aims to give consumers, real estate professionals, and analysts clearer insight into how insurance companies set their prices as it now heads to the Senate for consideration.
A rising public‑radio journalist walked away from the career she worked years to build after a spontaneous trip to Spain made her question what she truly wanted from life. Trading stability for a teaching visa and a slower pace in Seville, she faced financial uncertainty, culture shocks, and doubts about her future—yet also gained safety, freedom, and a renewed sense of self. Her journey is a reminder that major career shifts, whether abroad or at home, can open the door to unexpected possibilities.
