Finance transformation in the age of AI

Jun 12, 2025

Join Adam Kennedy, a consumer markets finance expert at PwC, and Edward Ponagai, a partner specializing in back office transformations, as they discuss the evolving landscape of finance amid AI advancements. They explore the concept of 'terminal value' and how finance functions are shifting from mere cost-cutting to creating value. Discover the transformative potential of agentic AI in finance workflows, the need for reskilling professionals, and strategic priorities CFOs must embrace for successful digital transformation.

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INSIGHT

Finance Hits Terminal Value on Cost-Cutting

Top finance functions have hit a limit in cost-cutting, nearing what's called "terminal value."
The future value lies in shifting focus from cost reduction to generating business insights.

ADVICE

Incorporate Data and AI Skills

Rethink the finance operating model to include data as a core component along with people, process, and technology.
Decide whether to build or rent scarce AI capabilities based on your transformation strategy.

ADVICE

Leverage Agentic AI in Finance

Use agentic AI to automate complex finance workflows by connecting systems and learning from data.
Teach AI to handle tasks like invoice processing and revenue recognition to increase efficiency and reduce manual work.

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In this special episode, we explore whether top-performing finance functions have reached a “terminal value” in their cost-cutting journey – and what comes next. As technologies like AI and advanced analytics evolve, finance leaders are shifting focus from efficiency to insight – rethinking operating models, talent strategies, and what it means to create value in a digital era.

In this episode, we discuss:

1:18 – What “terminal value” means in finance and why top-performing functions may be approaching the limits of traditional cost-cutting
4:57 – How evolving finance operating models are incorporating new approaches to data, talent, and technology
9:07 – The rise of agentic AI and how autonomous agents are beginning to impact finance workflows
18:51 – Key leadership priorities for finance organizations navigating AI adoption and long-term transformation

For more insights, read our publication Have top performing finance functions reached terminal value in the age of AI?

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About our guests

Adam Kennedy is a PwC consumer markets finance leader focusing on business process improvement and finance effectiveness for Fortune 500 companies with an emphasis in retail, hospitality, and gaming. Adam provides consulting services on technology-driven finance transformation, end-to-end revenue stream management, merger integration support, financial analysis and reporting, risk management, and process improvement.

Edward Ponagai is a PwC partner who leads large-scale back office transformations and merger integrations. He helps CFOs think through their organization’s big picture vision and purpose and drill down to address organizational challenges, operational processes, and technological innovations.

About our guest host

Guest host Diana Stoltzfus is a partner in the National Office who helps to shape PwC’s perspectives on regulatory matters, responses to rulemakings and policy development, and implementation related to significant new rules and regulations. Prior to rejoining PwC, Diana was the Deputy Chief Accountant in the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) at the SEC where she led the activities of the OCA’s Professional Practices Group.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com