Audit partners concerned about AI risks

Technology disruption and AI-related competitive pressures rank among the top risks facing companies, according to a new survey of audit firm partners by the Center for Audit Quality.

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The survey, released Wednesday by the CAQ, found investment in AI remains a key priority for companies as they focus on practical implementation and integration across process automation, customer support and predictive analysis. As AI adoption expands, organizations are working through complex governance, oversight and risk management challenges linked to such emerging technologies. Nearly 90% of the survey respondents characterized the maturity of AI governance at their largest client as either “developing” or “early stage.” Audit partners indicated that companies continue to balance innovation with controls, emphasizing long-term value alongside responsible deployment.

The survey also asked audit partners about their perceptions of the economy. Their overall sentiment toward the U.S. economy remains largely unchanged from the previous survey in the fall of 2025, with neutral and cautiously optimistic views continuing to dominate. While the respondents’ sentiment has stabilized, the persistence of neutrality reflects ongoing uncertainty as companies weigh a wide range of economic and geopolitical risks, the CAQ noted. Audit partners reported their companies are advancing with targeted investments in new technologies and strategic decision-​​​​​​making, and not remaining static.

“This edition of our Audit Partner Pulse Survey highlights a shift from holding steady to moving forward with greater intent, even as uncertainty remains,” said Amy O’Connor, vice president of public affairs at the Center for Audit Quality in a statement. “That perspective can serve as a useful guide for investors, policymakers, and business leaders making decisions in a complex environment and reflects what makes assurance so valuable: audit partners bring a broad, cross-industry perspective grounded in real-time engagement with companies.”