CFOs Back AI for Finance Transformation, But Trust Gap Widens, New Kyriba Survey Shows

A new global survey from treasury and finance technology provider Kyriba underscores a striking dichotomy in how finance leaders view artificial intelligence: while optimism about AI’s impact on the profession continues to grow, concerns about security and privacy are limiting full-scale adoption.

According to findings published this week by Kyriba, 77 % of global CFOs cite security and privacy risks as critical concerns in their AI adoption strategies — even as nearly two-thirds say AI will be the most transformative force in finance over the next five years. The research, based on Kyriba’s newly introduced OPR (Optimism, Preparedness, Risk) Index, surveyed 1,400 chief financial officers across eight countries to better understand finance leaders’ confidence as they navigate technology investments and economic pressures.

The OPR Index, which measures a composite of CFO sentiment and readiness on a 0-200 scale, yielded a global score of 93.28 — described by Kyriba as “measured confidence.” Respondents reported a relatively strong positive business outlook and operational readiness, but persistent concerns over external pressures such as market volatility and data vulnerabilities dampened overall confidence.

“What we’re seeing in 2026 is a perfect example: CFOs are highly optimistic about AI’s transformative potential, yet they’re approaching implementation with strategic caution around security and privacy,” said Monica Green Boydston, Chief Product Officer at Kyriba. “True confidence isn’t just about feeling positive — it’s about being ready to act decisively even amid uncertainty.”

Despite the high level of concern, the survey highlights that AI adoption is underway. Kyriba’s report indicates 47 % of CFOs have already integrated AI into some business processes, though only about 45 % say AI is used in the majority of decision-making functions. CFOs also prioritized other operational goals for the year ahead, including improved data reliability and enhanced fraud prevention.

Geographically, confidence and adoption patterns varied. Markets such as Singapore, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States posted higher OPR scores and lower perceived risk, while France, Italy, Spain, and Japan showed more cautious profiles, according to the Kyriba findings.

The survey’s results arrive at a time when CFOs are under pressure to balance innovation with governance. For SAP finance leaders in particular, the message is clear: while AI holds potential to reshape forecasting, liquidity management, and financial reporting, successful deployment will hinge on strengthening security frameworks and earning stakeholder trust.