A recent survey by The CFO Pulse Alliance reveals a significant shift in the mindset of CFOs as they prepare for a challenging year ahead. According to the April 2025 CFO Pulse Survey, more than half of emerging and midmarket CFOs report a decline in forecast confidence. Specifically, 54% of respondents describe the current impact of global sentiment and policy risks as moderately negative, while 19% say it is significantly negative. In response to these pressures, CFOs are taking a cautious approach. Nearly 30% have delayed capital investments or expansion plans, and 19% are accelerating nearshoring or reshoring initiatives to manage supply chain risks and avoid potential tariffs. These actions reflect a clear shift towards risk mitigation, with only 11% of CFOs aggressively adjusting pricing models. This indicates a prioritization of stability over revenue growth, with many opting to absorb tariff costs instead of passing them onto customers.
Nick Araco Jr., CEO and Founder of The CFO Alliance, noted, “While headlines continue to focus on large enterprises tearing up forecasts and scrambling to recalibrate, midmarket and emerging enterprise CFOs are demonstrating a very different mindset, one rooted in proactive planning, operational discipline, and strategic flexibility.” Additionally, CFOs are placing significant emphasis on improving operational efficiency. The survey reveals that 40% of CFOs prioritize scenario planning and financial modeling, while 29% focus on liquidity and working capital management. Looking ahead, nearly 50% of CFOs expect U.S. trade and tariff instability to persist for at least six months. Furthermore, 69% are still assessing their 2025 talent strategies. As CFOs navigate this uncertain environment, the key to success lies in a balance of prudent risk management and forward-thinking strategies. This approach will help maintain profitability and foster growth despite external challenges.
