Generative artificial intelligence (gen AI) has emerged as the most critical future skill for Southeast Asian finance professionals, with 39% identifying it as a top priority over the next five years, according to a joint study by ACCA and CA ANZ. Other in-demand capabilities for the region include data visualization (34%), process automation (29%), executive communication through data storytelling (27%), real-time dashboard creation (25%), and predictive analytics (24%).
In contrast, traditional technical competencies such as database management (16%) and programming (11%) received significantly lower priority. Commenting on the findings, ACCA Chief Executive Helen Brand highlighted that finance departments are transitioning from backward-looking reporting functions into strategic drivers of enterprise-wide insights, making responsible AI adoption and upskilling essential for finance leadership.
Despite this recognized demand, a widespread skills gap persists. Globally, 72% of surveyed finance professionals report having only basic or zero proficiency in gen AI, prompting 41% to pursue self-directed training outside of work. The research underscores that while gen AI is the highest-ranked skill among Southeast Asian finance workers, it is also the area suffering from the greatest deficit in formal training and current expertise.
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