The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, representing AICPA & CIMA, recently hosted two flagship events in Bengaluru, bringing together finance leaders, accounting professionals, educators, policymakers and business executives to discuss the future of the profession and the evolving role of finance in a rapidly changing business environment.
Held at The Ritz-Carlton, Bengaluru, the engagement commenced with the CFO Summit themed “What Accounting and Finance Will Do Differently.” The summit featured discussions on how finance leaders are navigating business transformation, managing evolving stakeholder expectations, strengthening governance frameworks and contributing to long-term organisational growth. Sessions highlighted the expanding role of finance teams in driving strategic decision-making and supporting businesses through changing market dynamics.
The following day, AICPA & CIMA hosted RISE2040 under the theme “Reimagining the Profession for the Next Generation.” The conference brought together professionals, educators, students and industry stakeholders to explore the future of accounting and finance, with discussions centred on emerging skills, professional development, workforce readiness and the changing expectations of employers.
Participants examined the importance of analytical thinking, ethical leadership, business acumen, adaptability and technology-enabled capabilities in preparing future finance professionals. The event also underscored the need for continuous learning and stronger collaboration between industry and academia to ensure talent development remains aligned with evolving business requirements.
“RISE2040 highlighted the importance of preparing finance professionals for a future defined by continuous change. While technology continues to transform business operations, leadership, ethics, governance and strategic thinking remain at the core of the profession. These conversations are critical in helping build a workforce that is equipped to create value, drive growth and support organisations in an increasingly complex global environment,” said Venkkat Ramanan, Regional Vice President, Asia Pacific, AICPA & CIMA.
The events reinforced India’s growing importance as a global hub for finance talent and professional capability development, while emphasizing the role of collaboration in shaping the future of the profession.
