Why would I become a CA(SA) in 2025 when AI is taking over the world?

Why become a CA(SA) in 2025, in a world being reshaped by AI? A question that might be asked by many prospective CAs, and rightly so. We are seeing the drastic rise of artificial intelligence, and it is changing the way we do business, analyse data and even write simple emails.

I can’t remember the last time I scrolled through LinkedIn or Instagram without coming across posts created by AI; and in the more professional context of LinkedIn it appears that we might be heading in the direction of AI conversing with AI. I can’t help but wonder where this is going and how it might reshape the entire job market?

And before you read any further, I know what you are thinking – “did he just use AI to come up with everything I have seen on this page so far?”. The aim of this blog, just like the Future CA E-Book and our career coaching platform is to empower future CAs through knowledge. My goal is to do this through the lessons that I have learned in my career thus far, along with doing research on topics that will benefit the finance professional of the future. My own experiences can of course not be emulated by artificial intelligence. The data used and the research conducted will of course be a combination of internet sourced information along with artificial intelligence in order to formulate constructive arguments. I therefore could not have come up with a better first article than this – using artificial intelligence to enhance and evolve our day-to-day tasks, not replace them.

As a CA(SA), whichever career path we might end up choosing, our day-to-day revolves around analysing, evaluating, reconciling, strategizing and problem-solving. To name just a few of the verbs dominating our colourful world of finance. In this article I will look at a number of arguments defending the CA profession’s position in a job market where AI is rising. Making it clear why being a Chartered Accountant will retain its strong position as a career path within the world of finance, and AI being a useful tool to be used by humans – not replace them.

Why AI can’t replace Chartered Accountants?

1. Because CAs Don’t Just Do the Numbers – They Think Through Them

AI is incredibly powerful at automating repetitive, rules-based tasks – like reconciliations, data extraction, and drafting basic reports. But even the most advanced algorithms fall short when it comes to human judgment and strategic thinking. Here is what AI can’t do – at least not well:

• Apply judgment in grey areas of financial reporting.
• Strategically advise based on context, business goals, and ethics.
• Manage risk, interpret nuance, or lead complex negotiations.

The modern CA(SA) is no longer just a number-cruncher. They are: a trusted advisor to business leaders, a strategic thinker who translates data into decisions, and a tech-enabled professional who partners with AI – rather than competes with it.

 2. Because AI Needs Oversight – and That’s Where You Come In

AI is a powerful tool – but like any tool, it’s only as good as the person guiding it. While AI can process and analyse vast amounts of financial data, it lacks context, accountability, and ethical judgment. That’s where Chartered Accountants step in. CAs will play a critical role in auditing and validating AI-driven systems and outputs, ensure regulatory compliance in fast-changing financial environments, make ethical decisions when automation falls short, and take responsibility for outcomes – something AI can’t legally or morally do.

As AI becomes more deeply embedded in financial processes, I expect regulators and boards to start demanding greater assurance that these systems are being used responsibly. The CA’s role is therefore not disappearing, but rather evolving. The CA of the future will be critical in evaluating AI generated information, and assess these machine-generated results in line with financial reporting requirements.

3. Because Financial Leadership Is More In-Demand Than Ever

No matter how advanced AI becomes, it can’t lead a business, build trust, or steer strategy. In a world flooded with data, companies need financial professionals who bring clarity, confidence, and direction. That’s where CA(SA)s stand out – not as back-office number crunchers, but as frontline decision-makers. Every business from fintech startups to ESG-focused firms needs financial leadership that understands:

• Financial strategy
• Regulatory frameworks
• Sustainable business models

As a CA(SA), you’re trained not just to analyse, but to lead, advise, and drive business value. That’s not going away – if anything, it’s becoming more valuable.

4. Because You’ll Be Future-Proof – Not AI-Proof

The goal isn’t to become AI-proof – that’s a losing battle. The goal is to be future-proof. And that’s exactly what the CA(SA) designation offers. In a rapidly changing world, being a CA(SA) gives you credibility, adaptability, and a competitive edge – no matter how technology evolves.

The CA(SA) designation gives you:

• Global mobility and credibility: The CA(SA) designation is respected across industries and borders
• Career agility: Move between roles in finance, consulting, tech, entrepreneurship, or leadership
• In-demand expertise: From sustainability reporting to AI auditing, new opportunities are emerging daily
• High earning potential: Specialized, strategic finance professionals will always command strong compensation

Final Thought:

AI might be the engine, but CAs are still the navigators. If you learn to work with AI – not against it – you’ll be part of the next generation of professionals who are smarter, faster, and more valuable than ever. Here’s the truth: the CA(SA) designation is more relevant and powerful than ever – because of AI, not despite it.

 

Arrie van der Schyf CA(SA)

CA2BE - Founder