Deloitte CFO Survey: 2026 Q2

The quarterly Deloitte CFO Survey has been gauging sentiment and balance-sheet strategies among the UK’s largest businesses since 2007.

Key findings

• CFOs are increasingly optimistic that AI will materially improve business performance 

• Investment in digital technology is expected to rise

• The survey reports an easing in perceptions of external uncertainty

• Cost control is biggest dampener to graduate hiring

Debapratim De, chief economist at Deloitte UK, said: “The global economy has, so far, weathered the shock from the conflict in Iran better than many had feared. Corporate sentiment is responding to this relative resilience. 

“However, concerns over geopolitics and domestic competitiveness remain elevated. CFOs continue to prioritise cost reduction and cash control in this environment.”

Darren Graves, Deloitte UK CEO, added: “It is encouraging to see growing optimism about the positive impact AI can have on productivity and business performance.

“With a new prime minister and cabinet in office, businesses will be keen to hear how the Government plans to boost growth, competitiveness, and deliver a clear economic strategy that supports the UK's position as a leading global destination for business and investment."

Explore the data

Download the PDF to access all the historical data series from the Deloitte CFO Survey. Data from the CFO Survey is also hosted on LSEG Datastream, Bloomberg, Factset and Macrobond. Please feel free to use any of the data series in your documents or presentations.

Email Thomas Avis to receive a copy of our spreadsheet containing our CFO Survey data.