Irish CFOs Face Growing Uncertainty – But Smart Investment Still Leads the Way

The latest CFO Spring Survey 2025 from Deloitte paints a complex picture for Irish businesses. On one hand, CFOs are facing mounting pressure from geopolitical risk, economic headwinds, and margin squeeze. On the other, Irish companies continue to show resilience through strategic investment, particularly in capital spending, talent, and sustainability.

At BusinessLoans.ie, we see this dual reality play out every day. SMEs are cautious, but not standing still. Many are pushing ahead with plans for growth – especially those investing in digital tools, improving efficiency, or preparing for regulatory shifts. Here’s what you need to know from the survey, and how flexible finance can support your business through 2025.

📉 Risk Appetite at Historic Lows

According to Deloitte, 86% of Irish CFOs say it’s not a good time to take more risk – up sharply from last year. Uncertainty has surged, with 60% now reporting high levels of concern about external disruption.

Key risks flagged by Irish finance leaders:

  • Economic outlook (83%)

  • Geopolitical instability (80%)

  • Cyber threats (74%)

  • Skills shortages (51%)

  • Increasing regulation (46%)

This mirrors what we hear from SMEs: there’s a clear caution around borrowing, especially longer-term or inflexible debt. That’s where alternative finance solutions can make a difference.

⚙️ Despite Headwinds, Investment Continues

Here’s the good news: Irish CFOs are still planning to invest – more so than many of their European peers. According to the survey:

  • 36% plan to increase capital expenditure (above the EU average)

  • 40% are increasing spending on digital transformation

  • 40% are investing in ESG and sustainability

  • Less than 14% plan to reduce headcount, compared to 35% across Europe

This aligns with a clear message from Deloitte’s Tom Hynes:

“Ireland still presents opportunity. A significant number of CFOs believe there’s more scope to grow foreign direct investment... But the slower pace of digital transformation in Ireland is a concern. This is an area where companies need to act now to remain competitive.”

💡 Smart Finance for Strategic Moves

At BusinessLoans.ie, we work with growing businesses across sectors – from tech and manufacturing to hospitality and retail – who are investing in:

  • Equipment upgrades and automation

  • Refurbishment and energy efficiency

  • Talent acquisition and training

  • Marketing and digital transformation

We know that traditional lenders aren’t always equipped to support businesses during times of high uncertainty. That’s why we partner with a range of alternative finance providers to offer:

  • Fast unsecured business loans up to €500,000

  • Flexible repayment terms up to 5 years

  • Bridging and asset finance for CAPEX investments

  • Non-bank funding for businesses with seasonal cash flow or complex credit histories

🔮 Looking Ahead

Deloitte’s report calls on CFOs to remain “future-focused” and to balance short-term cost control with long-term investment. The companies that do both will come out stronger.

If you're planning to upgrade, expand, or adapt in 2025, but need a funding partner who understands today’s challenges, talk to us at BusinessLoans.ie. We’ll help you secure the right finance – fast, flexible, and fit for your future.

Let’s turn uncertainty into opportunity. Call the BusinessLoans.ie team on 01 55 636 55 or APPLY HERE.