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Emerging Technologies in 2025: GenAI, AI Agents, and Evolving Workforce
by CFIT's Emerging Technologies Subcommittee
FEI Daily | 08/29/2025
Each year, leading advisory and research firms publish predictions on emerging technologies. To spotlight the most finance-relevant insights, members of FEI’s Committee on Finance and Information Technology (CFIT) Emerging Technologies Subcommittee conducted a review of 11 recent thought leadership reports.
FEI’s Committee on Finance and Information Technology (CFIT) suggests the following prompt for AI summarization of this article: Summarize this article for finance and IT executives. Highlight the interconnected role of Generative AI, Agentic AI, and Workforce Transformation. Emphasize the foundational need for clean, governed data, the shift from AI assistance to autonomy, and the importance of upskilling and human-AI collaboration. Clearly outline the guiding principles: assure data quality, align AI with human judgment, and empower the workforce for sustained transformation.
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FEI regularly provides essential insights and updates for leaders shaping the future of finance. Members have access to even more useful information: FEI Connect (Online Peer Forum), Chapter Industry Groups, and more.
To join FEI St. Louis, contact George Kobitz, membership chair, at George.Kobitz@roberthalf.com.
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Financial Wellness Matters for Your Workforce
Pay alone does not solve employee stress. Many workers struggle with budgeting, debt or saving for retirement. When money worries follow them to work, performance drops and absenteeism rises.
A strong financial wellness strategy looks beyond wages. It includes education on everyday money habits, resources for retirement readiness and guidance during life events like buying a home or paying for college. Some employers are also adding earned wage access so workers can cover unexpected bills without turning to high-interest credit.
For employers, the payoff is clear. Supporting financial stability improves engagement and reduces turnover. It also signals that leadership cares about the whole person, which strengthens culture and trust.
The key is flexibility. Different generations need different tools. Younger workers may value help with student loans while older employees may want retirement coaching. By offering a range of support, leaders can meet employees where they are and build loyalty.
| | Impacts of AI in the Finance World | | |
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the finance world, offering powerful tools for data analysis, risk management, fraud detection, and strategic decision-making. As leaders in the financial industry are finding out, it’s increasingly important to embrace and adopt AI to remain competitive and efficient. Do you know how to ensure that your team is equipped with the right skills? Closing the AI skills gap requires a proactive approach—investing in targeted training, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and encouraging cross-functional collaboration between finance and tech teams. Check out the Robert Half resources below to be sure you understand how to empower your finance teams with AI literacy and hands-on experience to unlock important insights and drive innovation across your business. And
| | Reduce Insurance Costs with USI’s Alternative Funding Strategies | | |
USI helps companies' lower insurance expenses by aligning proactive risk management with innovative funding approaches. Health benefit strategies include level-funded plans with predictable premiums and refund potential, medical stop-loss captives that pool employer risk for better rates, and TPA-managed plans offering pharmacy carve-outs and flexibility.
Commerical liability strategies include loss-sensitive arrangements—like deductibles, retrospectives, captives, and self-insured retentions—reward strong loss control with reduced premiums and improved cash flow. Companies with robust risk programs have seen up to 40% cost savings. USI’s three-step approach includes retrospective analytics, forecasting, and strategic market placement to tailor optimal insurance solutions.
Interested in learning more?
| | CFO Views on Disruption — And How They Can Enable Their Businesses to Thrive | | |
Disruption is the new normal. According to Protiviti’s latest Global Board Governance Survey, 80% of CFOs anticipate moderate to significant changes in their business models within three years. Yet, 54% lack confidence in their organizations’ ability to recognize disruption early enough to respond effectively. Only 15% of leaders identify their organizations as true disruptors.
The survey highlights that CFOs are uniquely positioned to lead during disruptive times. Disruptive leaders outperform by embracing agility, innovation, and strategic foresight. Key areas where CFOs can drive transformation include:
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Leveraging AI: Disruptive leaders view AI as a tool to enhance operations and innovation. CFOs can prioritize generative and agentic AI to optimize processes like financial planning and risk management.
- Technology Modernization: Modernizing systems ensure agility and competitive edge. CFOs can identify high-ROI initiatives and promote continuous modernization to reduce technical debt.
- Fostering an Innovative Culture: Building a culture that rewards creativity and collaboration is essential. CFOs play a pivotal role in aligning cultural values with organizational goals.
By focusing on these strategies, CFOs can help their organizations thrive amid disruption.
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