Post by Oliver Wyman

CFOs are taking on a more central role in how companies drive growth, allocate capital, and deliver results. The Oliver Wyman Forum's inaugural CFO Agenda 2026, in collaboration with the NYSE, draws on insights from nearly 500 CFOs globally to understand how the role is changing. A few key takeaways: • CFOs are moving deeper into strategy. 70% rank strategy and transformation among their top-most important mandate. • Growth and discipline are now one agenda. 64% prioritize growth, while 60% rank cost management among their top three priorities. • AI is a priority, but is not yet scaled. 80% are focusing on AI and data, yet only 8% have deployed it at scale in finance. • Transformation is accelerating. 69% are investing in planning and business advisory capabilities, alongside AI and efficiency. • The finance workforce is shifting. 64% expect to move away from junior roles, as demand for analytical and strategic capabilities grows. The challenge for CFOs now is disciplined execution as they seek to turn large-scale investment and ambitious strategic goals into measurable outcomes. Explore what the CFOs at some of the world's largest organizations are prioritizing in the coming year. Read the CFO Agenda 2026: https://owy.mn/4cB2ali