The world is constantly advancing toward new heights of technology. The way we work, communicate, and solve problems is evolving faster than ever. Among these innovations, Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands out as one of the most transformative. AI is no longer tomorrow’s technology, it has become today’s workplace tool, just like Excel or Word.
Many of today’s professionals began their careers long before AI entered the mainstream. For them, this evolution feels new, having gained real momentum only in the past three to four years. Some struggle to accept the change, while others adapt quickly.
But here’s the truth, “adaptability is a skill”. Change is not optional; it’s inevitable. In every field, embracing change is essential to stay relevant. Just as accounting standards like IFRS are constantly updated to meet the needs of modern businesses, professionals must evolve their skills to align with technological progress. The conclusion is clear: those who adopt and learn new technologies will lead the future of business, while those who resist will gradually become less relevant.
In today’s world, many tasks once performed by humans are now delegated to AI. From routine operations to complex decision-making, AI is becoming a trusted partner across industries. Following are some examples:
Everyday Productivity
- Writing emails and drafting opinions with speed and precision.
- Performing routine tasks like reconciliations, freeing professionals to focus on strategy.
Smarter Decision Making
- Supporting judgments with algorithms and real-time data.
- Predictive AI models assessing emerging risks; regulatory, cyber, credit, and even ESG indicators — faster than ever.
- AI-driven forecasting engines producing highly accurate cash flow, revenue, and cost projections.
Risk & Compliance
- Real-time fraud detection solutions monitoring transactions and patterns to instantly flag anomalies.
- Machine learning models proactively detecting unusual patterns and preparing draft audit trails, reducing audit risk and cost.
Strategic Finance
- Integrated scenario modeling platforms running millions of risk-adjusted simulations autonomously, enabling professionals to evaluate strategies for Mergers and acquisitions, expansion, or cost containment in minutes, not weeks or months
- Generative AI and predictive analytics embedded into ERP suites, recommending optimal suppliers, negotiating contracts autonomously, and forecasting price fluctuations.
End to End Automation
- AI chatbots managing vendor queries.
- Smart workflows handling exceptions seamlessly.
The examples above highlight only a fraction of the tasks AI is already performing. Importantly, AI is not replacing humans, it is supporting human judgment and decision-making. Used thoughtfully, AI gives us more time to think, question, and add value. And that’s something our profession has always needed more of.
The right starting point for AI? Consistent use, embed AI into routine tasks, approach it with curiosity and evaluate outcomes critically. This disciplined approach reflects the adaptability that has long defined finance professionals.
⚠️ Cautions: AI is not perfect. AI generated outputs should be reviewed, confidentiality of data must be respected, and judgment, ethics, and accountability remain firmly human responsibilities. These aren’t reasons to avoid AI, they are reasons to use it responsibly.