CFO profit optimism at record high, survey finds

Grant Thornton’s third-quarter 2026 CFO Survey found record optimism about corporate profits despite continued uncertainty surrounding the U.S. economy, tax policy and trade.

Among nearly 230 U.S. finance leaders surveyed, 80% expect their organization’s net profit to grow over the next 12 months — the highest level recorded across 18 quarters — while 35% anticipate growth exceeding 10%.

Confidence in artificial intelligence is helping to fuel that optimism, with 84% saying returns on AI investment are meeting or exceeding expectations. However, only 33% reported enhanced revenue as a benefit.

Transformation efforts also remain strong, with 84% saying progress is meeting or exceeding expectations, despite budget constraints and competing priorities. See more findings.