CFOs and CEOs facing financial issues may first look to cut expenditures on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and environmental, social and governance (ESG), according to new research by Gartner Inc.
The consulting firm recently surveyed 128 BFOs and CEOs across several U.S. industries, asking them to identify the top two areas they would consider targeting first for budget cuts if the economic landscape forces them into action.
Respondents cited cuts in M&A the most (41%), followed closely by investments to improve ESG (39%), the consulting firm survey found. For comparison, CEOs rated ESG as a top strategic priority for the first time in 2022. Learn more.