The intelligence era: Accounting’s shift to AI and insights

A future-ready accounting firm operates as a connected platform: cloud as the backbone, integration to reduce rework, and responsible AI embedded where work happens. The goal is faster answers, tighter compliance, and proactive advice grounded in reliable data. This operating model expands capacity, strengthens client trust, and turns insight into measurable outcomes across tax, audit, and advisory.

In 2025, accountants need to blend data literacy, AI fluency, and system integration know‑how with client-facing and consulting skills: communication, problem framing, and change leadership. Soft skills like critical thinking, adaptability, and client communication remain vital as firms shift toward advisory-first models. Upskilling on workflow automation and secure data practices is equally critical as firms shift from efficiency to intelligence‑driven service delivery. The most successful professionals will be those who blend technical and strategic skills to interpret data, deliver insights, and guide clients through complex decisions.

AI is now a core capability for U.S. accounting firms. In 2025, 70% of U.S. firms use AI at least weekly for tax research, document summarization, and workflow support, and 78% plan to increase their investment. High‑growth firms are leading with predictive insights and compliance monitoring, using integrated data to reduce manual work, relieve burnout, and elevate advisory quality.  As trust in AI grows, firms are embedding it into strategic planning and client engagement, making it a key driver of operational efficiency and competitive advantage.

Preparing for digital transformation starts with aligning technology, strategy, and people. Successful U.S. firms are modernizing the foundation: moving core workflows to the cloud, connecting disconnected tools via APIs, and fixing handoff bottlenecks. They are embedding AI in day-to-day tasks (intake, research, summarization), strengthening governance and security, and investing in skills that turn data into client-ready guidance. Key steps include assessing current infrastructure, training staff in digital tools, and streamlining workflows through automation. Firms that prioritize digital maturity and build agile teams are better equipped to meet client expectations and regulatory demands.

The Future Ready Accountant report is designed for leaders shaping the future of the profession. It’s ideal for anyone looking for evidence-backed strategies to scale performance: practice managers and directors;, tax, audit, and accounting firm partners; advisory and client service leaders; and technology and operations executives. The Report combines global benchmarks and deep U.S. analysis from over 2,700 professionals across 14 countries, helping firms to benchmark performance, identify growth opportunities, and build resilient, future-ready strategies.

Private equity is accelerating transformation across the accounting industry. In the U.S., 32% of firms received private equity funding in the past three years, and many are planning future PE, M&A, or partnerships endeavors. These investments are driving innovation, expanding service offerings, and enabling faster adoption of cloud and AI technologies. Investors value tech maturity – cloud, integration, data readiness – because it speeds scale, standardizes workflows, and boosts margins. While PE offers access to capital and scale, firms must balance growth with cultural alignment and client trust.