Competitive advantage for Firms embracing AI
As 2025 gets underway, the themes we have seen emerging over the last few years continue to impact the accounting industry in significant ways. From developments around ESG reporting and the ongoing talent shortage, to the impact of wider economic and political changes globally, it will be interesting to see how the industry responds to these challenges over the year ahead. Against this backdrop, one theme that will impact all areas of the profession is the continued increase in the use of AI technology.
The Karbon State of AI in Accounting 2025 Report highlights AI as a crucial driver of efficiency and competitiveness in the accounting industry. With a significant decline in CPA candidates, firms are under pressure to maximise productivity. AI adoption is proving transformative, with firms leveraging it for automation saving an average of 18 hours per employee each month. However, despite 85% of professionals expressing optimism about AI, only 37% are investing in training, creating a risk of falling behind. Larger firms are leading adoption, and 56% of respondents believe firms not using AI will see a decline in value. Additionally, 79% see AI as a recruitment advantage, though data security concerns remain prevalent. Overall, AI is expected to save the industry nearly $1 trillion by 2030, reinforcing its long-term impact.
Looking to this issue, do read our summary of the International Accounting Bulletin World Survey 2025 results. Annually, our World Survey edition benchmarks the performance and growth of accounting organisations globally, with overall network and association rankings, as well as breakdowns by region, practice line, and staffing numbers.
Elsewhere in this issue, we hear from HLB International’s CEO, Marco Donzelli, on his priority areas for innovation, and there is a further case study by HLB’s Amy Spillard on ways to build deeper client relationships to enhance innovation; Praxity Alliance Chairman and FALK Managing Partner, Steffen Ahrens, shares his New Year Reflections and strategic growth plans, while, in a further case study, Praxity CEO Samantha Louis explains her commitment to The Praxity Charter for global collaboration; and Hetav Vasani, Transfer pricing specialist at KNAV, discusses transfer pricing compliance and risk mitigation considerations, while valuations experts at KNAV offer a case study on debt capacity.
In addition, GlobalData analysts Archie Sewell and Nimrah Sharif identify the key themes impacting the tech industry; ACCA’s Rachael Johnson discusses a report on Risk Cultures in Healthcare and The Role of Accountancy; David Trapp, CEO of ArmorPoint, advises on Preparing a Cybersecurity Plan for the 2025 Tax Season; Institute of Business Ethics CEO Lauren Branston highlights the need to embed ethical leadership in organisations; CPA partners Source Advisors’ Matt McKinney explains what accountants should know about The key US tax reforms; and Tielei Wang, CertiK Chief Security Scientist, shares his insights on blockchain as it gains traction as a trusted tool for businesses.
We look forward to your feedback and participation.
IAB & The Accountant’s upcoming supplements in 2025:
- May 2025 - Pioneers of ESG
- September 2025 - Leaders in Technology
- November 2025 - Authority in Audit
Daniel Moore
Business Development Representative
Email: daniel.moore@globaldata.com
Phone: +44 (0)20 7947 2797