In a shifting economic landscape, finance teams are demonstrating greater preparedness to navigate uncertainty compared to the tumultuous days of 2020, according to the 2025 Economic Sentiment Survey conducted by AvidXchange, Inc.
The survey, which polled 709 finance professionals, highlights a significant evolution in how finance departments are leveraging technology to enhance agility and strategic decision-making amid persistent challenges like inflation, supply chain disruptions, and market volatility.
Released this month, the report underscores a growing confidence among finance leaders, with 67% feeling better equipped to handle economic uncertainty than they were five years ago, largely due to increased investments in digital tools and hard-earned experience from the pandemic era.
The findings reflect a market still grappling with a “post-Covid hangover,” as 86% of finance professionals express concern about the current state of the economy.
Notably, 50% are “very concerned” about the likelihood of a recession, with 22% anticipating one within the next 12 months.
Inflation remains a significant hurdle, with 83% of respondents reporting supplier cost increases, and nearly one in three organizations passing these costs onto customers.
Additionally, 52% note that tariffs are impacting financial forecasts, adding another layer of complexity to strategic planning.
In response, nearly half of the surveyed professionals are cutting discretionary spending, signaling a cautious yet proactive approach to financial management.
Technology has emerged as a cornerstone of this resilience.
The survey reveals that 70% of finance professionals view technology as critical to adapting to changing economic conditions, with 72% reporting that tools implemented during the early stages of the pandemic are yielding dividends today.
A significant 49% are prioritizing investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to address ongoing uncertainty.
Top areas of focus include AI and machine learning (48%), data security and compliance tools (44%), and collaboration and workflow solutions (36%).
These investments are not merely about cost-cutting but are enabling faster, smarter decision-making, positioning finance teams as partners within their organizations.
This shift in perception—from operational support to strategic leadership—is a key takeaway from the report.
Nearly 30% of finance teams are engaging in scenario planning and financial modeling, while 27% are focusing on strengthening supplier relationships, indicating a proactive, future-focused mindset.
AvidXchange, a provider of accounts payable (AP) automation software and payment solutions for mid-market businesses, has been focused on enabling this transformation.
With 25 years of industry experience, the company enables over 8,500 businesses, processing payments to more than 1.3 million suppliers through its proprietary payment network over the past five years.
Its AI-enhanced software integrates with existing accounting systems, streamlining AP workflows and enhancing visibility and control.
This has been invaluable for businesses navigating economic volatility, allowing them to manage spend and compliance without sacrificing efficiency.
Despite the optimism, challenges persist.
The report notes that while finance teams are more confident, the anticipated volatility through 2026 underscores the need for continued investment in practical solutions.
AvidXchange’s offerings, particularly in AI and automation, are positioned to support this need, helping organizations maintain agility in an unpredictable market.
As finance professionals take on expanded roles in data analytics and strategic advisory, the reliance on technology to mitigate risks—such as cybersecurity threats, with 76% of finance departments reporting recent cyberattacks—will only grow.
The AvidXchange survey paints a picture of a finance function in transition, balancing cautious optimism with strategic foresight.
By doubling down on technology, finance teams are not only weathering uncertainty but also reshaping their role as drivers of business growth.