In 2025, the integration of AI into the finance function in Asia has the potential to reshape operational frameworks and decision-making processes. Current industry research suggests that AI technologies are gaining traction among finance professionals navigating a complex landscape marked by rapid change.
At FutureCFO, we will likely see finance practitioners dabble in emerging technologies to enhance real-time decision-making, optimise invoice-to-cash and source-to-pay workflows, and allow CFOs to prioritise strategic initiatives over routine tasks.
Organisations that effectively harness these innovations expect to see marked efficiency improvements, facilitate more rapid adherence to evolving compliance regulations, and remain competitive in a fast-evolving market.
The growing importance of AI in finance
As we enter 2025, the recognition of AI as a pivotal enabler in the finance function is gaining momentum among CFOs and finance leaders in Asia. Charlie Cheah, managing director for Esker Asia, commented that 2024 has seen a marked increase in the adoption of AI, primarily due to its ability to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. However, the adoption rate varies significantly across the region, influenced by technological maturity and cultural attitudes towards innovation.
In more advanced markets, finance teams leverage AI to automate routine tasks, thus freeing up valuable time for strategic decision-making. Conversely, there remains a cautious approach in emerging markets, with many organisations still in the early stages of AI integration.
Despite these disparities, there's a consensus that AI will be crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.
Key trends shaping the future of finance
Cheah identifies several critical trends that CFOs should monitor to leverage technology effectively:
Autonomous finance: One of the most significant trends is the rise of autonomous finance, which aims to automate routine tasks such as reconciliation and reporting. This shift allows CFOs to focus on higher-value activities contributing to strategic decision-making. By reducing the burden of manual tasks, organisations can enhance their operational efficiency and responsiveness to market changes.
Predictive analytics: Predictive analytics is another essential component of this transformation. It empowers finance leaders to forecast financial trends, optimise cash flow, and improve capital allocation. As they collect and analyse data more effectively, organisations can make informed decisions that align with their strategic objectives.
AI-driven fraud detection: As scams and fraud become increasingly sophisticated, AI plays a vital role in enhancing fraud detection capabilities. By identifying anomalies and suspicious activities faster and more accurately than human oversight, AI helps organisations mitigate financial risks and maintain compliance with evolving regulations.
Streamlining processes with RPA
Integrating AI into robotic process automation (RPA) revolutionises key financial processes, such as invoice-to-cash (I2C) and source-to-pay workflows. Cheah emphasises that AI-driven RPA enhances data extraction, automates repetitive tasks, and provides predictive analytics to ensure smoother workflows.
He points out that at Esker, AI-powered solutions streamline processes like invoice matching and payment prioritisation. "By detecting anomalies in real-time, finance teams can reduce manual tasks and optimise working capital, ultimately strengthening relationships with vendors and customers. This proactive approach drives agility and scalability in today's fast-paced business environment," he elaborates.
Effective integration of AI technologies
Integrating AI into existing financial systems poses unique challenges for organisations. Cheah advocates for an incremental approach, starting with pilot programs that address specific pain points. This enables finance leaders to adapt to changes progressively while ensuring that AI tools align with legacy systems.
Collaboration between IT and finance departments is crucial to achieving successful integration. Organisations can empower employees to embrace AI technologies without fear by fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning. Regular upskilling opportunities will ensure that finance professionals are comfortable working with AI tools and understand their benefits in improving efficiency.
Futureproofing investments
As technological advancement accelerates, CFOs are increasingly concerned about futureproofing their investments in AI. Cheah advises finance leaders to evaluate AI investments based on scalability, integration capabilities, and tangible returns on investment (ROI). Choosing AI solutions that can evolve alongside emerging technologies is essential to ensuring long-term relevance.
Charlie Cheah
"In addition to traditional ROI metrics, CFOs should consider intangible benefits, such as AI's potential to reduce carbon footprints and enhance Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. By doing so, organisations can mitigate the risk of obsolescence and position themselves as leaders in sustainable finance practices." Charlie Cheah
Embracing autonomous finance
The concept of autonomous finance is reshaping traditional finance roles. With AI taking over manual tasks, finance teams can focus on higher-value activities that drive strategic insights and decision-making. Cheah emphasises the importance of reskilling finance professionals to navigate this shift effectively.
"CFOs must prioritise fostering a culture that embraces innovation and data-driven strategies. By leveraging AI tools, finance leaders can connect business problems to data insights, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making capabilities," he opines.
The time for action is now
Cheah posits that oOrganisations that hesitate to adopt AI technologies may be disadvantaged in 2025. The rapid evolution of AI in finance is not just a trend but a necessity for organisations seeking to maintain competitiveness. With the rise of e-invoicing compliance and other regulatory demands, the urgency for finance leaders to engage with AI technologies has never been greater.
"By embracing AI, finance professionals can streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and prepare for the challenges of an ever-changing financial landscape. The time to act is now, as those who wait may struggle to keep pace with their competitors in this new era of finance." Charlie Cheah
Click on the PodChat player to listen to Cheah discuss AI trends shaping the future of finance.
What do CFOs and finance leaders in Asia think about AI in the finance function as of the end of 2024?
What emerging trends in AI should CFOs be aware of to maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving financial landscape of 2025, particularly regarding compliance and risk management?
How do you see AI impacting robotic process automation (RPA) advancements to streamline invoice-to-cash and source-to-pay processes for finance leaders?
How can financial leaders effectively integrate AI technologies into their existing systems while fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability within their teams?
How should CFOs evaluate ongoing investment strategies around AI? Any suggestions on how to futureproof such investments?
What are the implications of autonomous finance on traditional finance roles, and how should CFOs prepare for these changes?
Allan is Group Editor-in-Chief for CXOCIETY writing for FutureIoT, FutureCIO and FutureCFO. He supports content marketing engagements for CXOCIETY clients, as well as moderates senior-level discussions and speaks at events.
Previous Roles
He served as Group Editor-in-Chief for Questex Asia concurrent to the Regional Content and Strategy Director role.
He was the Director of Technology Practice at Hill+Knowlton in Hong Kong and Director of Client Services at EBA Communications.
He also served as Marketing Director for Asia at Hitachi Data Systems and served as Country Sales Manager for HDS’ Philippine. Other sales roles include Encore Computer and First International Computer.
He was a Senior Industry Analyst at Dataquest (Gartner Group) covering IT Professional Services for Asia-Pacific.
He moved to Hong Kong as a Network Specialist and later MIS Manager at Imagineering/Tech Pacific.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Communications Engineering degree and is a certified PICK programmer.
