Category: Latest Articles
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The CFO role shifts from scorekeeper to strategic systems architect
The role of the chief financial officer is evolving rapidly as private markets grow more complex, data-rich and investor expectations rise. Once centred on reporting and controls, finance leaders are increasingly expected to be forward-looking, investor-facing and strategic, providing real-time insights, forecasting and clarity from vast volumes of data. Advances in automation and AI are…
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Apple posts record iPhone sales but warns on rising component costs
Apple has reported first-quarter revenue of $143.76bn, driven by a 23% surge in iPhone sales to $85.3bn, fuelled by strong demand for the iPhone 17, particularly in China. The three months to December 27th saw Mac revenues total $8.39bn, iPads $8.6bn, wearables and accessories $11.49bn, and services hit $30.01bn. Net income came in at $42.1bn,…
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Starbucks sees U.S. sales rebound, but margin concerns linger
Starbucks has reported its first U.S. sales growth in two years, with comparable North America sales up 4% in the first quarter, driven by chief executive Brian Niccol’s “Back to Starbucks” strategy – although operating margins fell 290bps due to past tariffs and store investments. Revenues in the three months to December 28th rose 6%…
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Finance chiefs ramp up investor relations as AI transforms investment research
As artificial intelligence becomes a powerful tool for investors conducting research, CFOs are increasing their focus on investor relations, according to Gartner. In a survey of 146 finance leaders, 43% said they spent more time preparing for earnings calls in 2025, with time on other key activities – such as social media engagement and rapid…
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Clear compliance writing and responsible AI use are ‘key to managing financial risk’
Writing for Reuters, attorney Ola M. Tucker emphasizes that financial institutions must prioritize plain-language compliance writing and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) to reduce regulatory risk. Effective compliance programs require clear, actionable documentation that employees can understand and implement – especially under increasing regulatory scrutiny. Recent enforcement actions, such as the $1.3bn fine against…