In recent years, the rise of remote working and digitisation has transformed the accountant’s role. As we move into 2025, accounting firms must keep up with the industry’s technological progress to help them stay competitive.
However, technology is not the only thing shaping accounting trends, changing client expectations, regulatory shifts and the emphasis on continual skills development is also impacting accounting practices.
With that in mind, this article will outline some key accounting industry trends to look out for in 2025 and beyond. Read on to learn more.
Increased AI Adoption and Automation
Accounting firms will continue to embrace AI and automated technologies in 2025, with market experts predicting AI investment will increase by a 42.5% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) through to 2027.
Generative AI can be used to mimic human intelligence, helping accountants with key tasks like client communication and data analysis. Additionally, automated technologies enable accounting firms to create rules-based workflows that can handle repetitive tasks like data entry and reconciliation.
These technologies combined can enhance an accounting firm’s capabilities for identifying and mitigating fraud, streamlining financial reporting and gathering data-driven insights to spur business growth.
Rise in Client Advisory Services
Beyond traditional bookkeeping and tax compliance, more and more accounting firms will expand their Client Advisory Services (CAS) in 2025. According to survey findings from Accounting Today, 80% of accountancy firms are seeing increasing client demand for financial planning, business strategy and technology consulting services this year.
This may be due to economic uncertainty and the rising cost of doing business. It may also be due to the emergence of new technologies, with brands looking for savvy solutions to boost productivity or explore new revenue streams to help them stay competitive.
Sustainability Reporting Becoming More Vital
Environmental protection awareness is growing in the business world, making sustainability reporting a high-priority accounting industry trend in 2025.
Accountants will need to develop proficiency in environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting standards, including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB).
These initiatives help businesses measure, report and improve their sustainability performance in line with evolving regulatory requirements. For example, companies will soon be required to take active steps to reduce their carbon footprint, invest in circular economy initiatives and improve working conditions across their supply chain.
Accountants will play an increasingly vital role in this movement by developing data collection processes, ensuring accuracy in reporting and communicating these developments with investors and customers.
Continuous Learning to Keep up with Accounting Trends
In light of many of these accounting industry trends, firms will be required to refresh their skills and knowledge throughout 2025. This might involve developing in-house training on new technologies or consulting with environmental experts to create practical sustainability reporting standards.
According to 2024 findings from Sage, 41% of accountants want to dedicate more time to improving their skills over the next year. Automating repetitive tasks can go a long way in freeing up accountants’ day so they can focus on professional development.
INAA: Keeping up with Accounting Industry Trends
The INAA is your global partner in navigating evolving accounting trends.
With our membership base spanning 50 countries, we provide events, resources and one-on-one networking opportunities to help accounting and auditing professionals position themselves for success in this dynamic business environment.
Visit our member benefits page to find out what we can do for you, and sign up with us today.