Despite the uncertainties, CFOs maintain growth expectations with a focus on digital transformation and cost optimization, research shows

According to Grant Thornton's research, even amid uncertainties, 79% of the Chief Financial Officer (CFOs) or Chief Financial Officer (Financial Officer) expect earnings growth in the next 12 months, while 66% plan to increase investments in information technology (IT) and digital transformation to strengthen competitiveness. The study conducted with 230 finance executives shows that, in parallel to confidence in innovation areas, there is an increasing focus on cost optimization: 64% of them indicated that this is one of the main priorities 230 index of the last 10 quarters.

Andre Sanseverino, managing partner of MyABCM, a company specialized in cost and profitability management systems, notes that this combination of greater investment in technology with cost optimization reflects a strategic stance in a highly complex scenario. “ CFOs recognize that to sustain growth, it is necessary not only to invest in areas of innovation, but also to apply a well-founded cost management. By prioritizing cost optimization, businesses are able to reallocate resources to sectors that drive competitiveness, such as IT and product development, maximizing efficiency and” results.

Sanseverino also points out that with 42% of CFOs less confident in cost control, careful planning becomes essential to avoid waste and ensure that investments made in these areas of interest generate the desired return. “In this volatile environment, cost management is a foundation that allows CFOs to strengthen organizations, ensuring flexibility to respond to external challenges”. 

The survey also points out that, with 61% of executives attentive to the impacts of the US elections, a data-driven management strategy will be fundamental to maintain financial resilience and responsiveness to possible market variations. “In a scenario of confidence in growth, but focusing on efficiency and accuracy, strategic cost management offers the necessary balance for these initiatives to reach the expected numbers without compromising the financial health of the company”, concludes the executive.