U.S. finance leaders are increasingly optimistic about their companies’ profit outlook, even as concerns about the broader economy, tariffs and geopolitical instability persist, according to Grant Thornton’s third-quarter 2026 CFO Survey.

The survey of 229 U.S. finance leaders, conducted Aug. 7–21, found that 80% expect their organizations’ profits to grow over the next 12 months, an all-time high for the survey. In addition, 35% anticipate net profit growth of more than 10%.

That optimism contrasts with a more cautious view of the overall economy. Forty-six percent of CFOs said they are optimistic about the U.S. economy, up from 37% in the second quarter but still below the survey’s 21-quarter average of 50%.

AI investment is emerging as one factor behind the stronger profit outlook. Eighty-four percent of finance leaders expect AI spending to increase over the next year, while 65% rate the performance and quality of AI technology as good or excellent. CFOs cited improved productivity (63%), better decision-making (45%) and greater workforce effectiveness (44%) among AI’s leading benefits.

The survey also found growing evidence that AI investments are producing measurable returns. Forty percent of respondents said AI returns have exceeded expectations, while another 44% said returns have met expectations.

For equipment finance companies, the findings point to continued investment in technology and business transformation, but with greater emphasis on measurable returns. Grant Thornton found that competing priorities and budget constraints were the top obstacles to transformation, each cited by 43% of respondents.

Economic pressures remain a concern. Sixty percent of CFOs said tariffs and trade-policy changes have harmed their businesses, compared with 26% who reported a benefit. At the same time, customer demand remains a relative bright spot, with 61% expressing a positive view and 15% a negative view.

Overall, the survey suggests finance leaders are balancing caution about the economy with confidence in their own businesses—and increasingly looking to AI and technology investments to support productivity, growth and profitability.

*This story was written with assistance from AI.