From Risk to Resilience: Rethinking global finance for modern business
Australian businesses are navigating a profoundly complex global landscape, defined by economic volatility, compressed margins, and rapid technological disruption. In this challenging environment, the finance function is undergoing a critical transformation, moving decisively from traditional governance and reporting to becoming a strategic partner and driver of value creation.
From Risk to Resilience: Rethinking global finance for modern business is an AFR Insights report, authored by The Action Exchange and supported by Airwallex. The report reveals a sector in transition, exploring the cutting-edge strategies, digital investments, and leadership mindsets empowering CFOs to steer their organisations toward opportunity and embedded resilience.
The report explores how progressive finance leaders are building the future of their function. Key insights include:
Finance is a strategic driver: As margins tighten, CFOs are taking a lead role in scenario-planning, risk modelling, and growth strategy, ensuring resilience is at the core of business decisions.
Technology is the top enabler: AI and automation, paired with real-time data visibility, are ranked as the top two capabilities enabling business success. This technology is transforming daily workflows and boosting productivity.
Digital tools level the playing field: Digital investment is scaling rapidly, giving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) unprecedented access to sophisticated financial tools once only available to large global enterprises.
Global ambition demands agility: Nearly half (49%) of surveyed firms plan to expand overseas within two years, requiring fit-for-purpose processes and financial infrastructure that enables borderless transactions.
Culture dictates adoption: Successful transformation hinges on leadership and culture. Change-ready leaders are fostering experimentation and data fluency within their teams to embrace a mindset that sees AI as an enhancer, not a threat.
The finance leaders shaping this future are building cultures, not just spreadsheets.
Read the full report here.
