Pune: The accounting profession is on the cusp of a major transformation, with artificial intelligence – AI in accounting poised to redefine how finance professionals work, according to the newly released ACCA AI Monitor Report by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
According to the report, AI in accounting will automate routine and repetitive tasks, enabling accountants to focus on higher-value work such as advisory, risk management, and strategic planning.
While AI promises increased efficiency, ACCA stresses the importance of retaining human oversight, especially in areas involving compliance, ethics, and judgment.
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AI in Accounting: Four Emerging Trends
The report highlights four emerging work trends in the accounting sector:
- Decline in routine processing due to task automation;
- Growth in strategic and advisory roles;
- Evolution of mid-level positions, demanding stronger interpersonal and analytical skills;
- Emergence of hybrid responsibilities at the intersection of accounting, AI, and business strategy.
Md Sajid Khan, Director – India, ACCA, stated: “Professionals who are adaptable, demonstrate sound judgment, and are open to continuous learning will not only survive but thrive in an AI-driven workplace. The accountancy profession has always adopted new technologies intelligently — AI will be no different.”
AI to Complement, Not Replace, Human Intelligence
Despite widespread narratives around job displacement, ACCA affirms that AI in accounting will complement — not replace — human professionals. The emphasis will shift from task execution to managing AI systems, interpreting AI outputs, and ensuring accountability.
The report also notes that AI integration will require new governance frameworks, ethical standards, and skill development programs. ACCA’s own qualification framework has already begun evolving to include emerging technologies and sustainability, aligning the future workforce with tomorrow’s demands.
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Alistair Brisbourne, Head of Technology Research at ACCA, added: “Although AI adoption is still in its early stages, we expect rapid acceleration. Our data shows increasing investments in AI, and widespread cloud infrastructure is already laying the foundation for broader AI integration in finance.”
A Future Built on Value and Outcomes
ACCA projects that organizations will move toward outcome-focused workflows, where AI adoption is measured not just by task automation but by the quality, compliance, and value delivered.
While full-scale AI adoption may take longer than anticipated, the momentum is clear. The report concludes with a call for accountants to stay engaged, ethical, and proactive as they navigate the evolving landscape of AI in accounting.
Read How is AI reshaping finance and accounting work? https://stories.accaglobal.com/how-is-ai-reshaping-finance-and-accounting-work/index.html
