Global spending on identity and access management (IAM) services is projected to increase by 55% to US$40.5 billion by 2031, as businesses strengthen security controls to address the growing risks and opportunities associated with artificial intelligence (AI) adoption.
This is the findings of a recent study by Juniper Research, highlighting how the rising use of AI agents to access corporate systems is prompting organisations to rethink traditional identity management approaches, shifting towards more continuous and adaptive access controls to manage both human and non-human identities.
For CFOs, this is a matter of consideration as identity and access management (IAM) is increasingly becoming a financial risk management and governance issue, not just an IT security concern.
As businesses expand their use of AI agents and automate workflows, CFOs must ensure that access to financial systems, sensitive company data and critical business applications is properly controlled.
Among the considerations include:
1. Protecting financial data and systems – AI agents accessing enterprise systems could create vulnerabilities if their permissions are not properly managed. CFOs need to ensure that financial platforms, payment systems, payroll records and accounting data are protected against unauthorised access.
2. Managing cybersecurity-related financial risks – Weak identity controls can expose businesses to fraud, data breaches and operational disruptions, potentially resulting in financial losses, regulatory penalties and reputational damage.
3. Evaluating technology investments – With global IAM spending projected to reach US$40.5 billion by 2031, CFOs will increasingly be involved in assessing the business case, costs and potential returns of investments in identity security solutions.
4. Strengthening internal controls and governance – CFOs are responsible for financial accountability and effective internal controls. IAM can help enforce segregation of duties, restrict access to sensitive financial information and establish accountability for actions performed by employees and AI agents.
5. Preparing for AI-driven enterprise risks – As AI agents become more integrated into finance operations, CFOs must consider how these systems receive, use and retain access privileges, particularly when handling autonomous transactions and financial workflows.
