Young Graduates Increasingly Pursue Finance Careers
Emerging trends reveal that finance is becoming one of the most attractive career options for new graduates. According to the CFA Institute’s 2025 Graduate Outlook Survey, 37% of respondents identified finance as the most promising career path. This marks a significant rise from 30% in 2024 and 24% in 2023, highlighting a clear upward trajectory in interest toward the industry.
The global survey gathered insights from over 9,000 participants aged 18-25 who are either currently completing or have recently completed their undergraduate or postgraduate education. The findings point to a growing enthusiasm for finance, positioning the sector as a leading destination for top talent.
What New Graduates Want: Salary, Flexibility, and Purpose
While compensation remains a key motivator—58% of graduates cited salary as the primary driver in their career decisions—other factors are becoming increasingly important. Nearly half (49%) of respondents said that flexible and favorable working arrangements play a crucial role when evaluating job offers.
“This position of privilege for the finance industry should not be taken for granted,” emphasized Margaret Franklin, president and CEO of the CFA Institute. “Employers must listen to the priorities of new career entrants and make necessary adjustments to attract and retain top talent.”
Franklin also highlighted the desire among graduates to make a meaningful societal impact. According to the survey, 90% of U.S. graduates said they want their careers to contribute positively to society. This signals an opportunity for finance firms to spotlight roles in areas like financial planning and sustainability, which align with these values.
Technology and AI Training Are Key to Recruitment
Another factor driving job preferences among young professionals is access to technology and training in emerging fields. The survey found that 66% of U.S. graduates are more inclined to pursue roles that offer artificial intelligence (AI) training.
“Graduates don’t want to work for companies that will be left behind,” Franklin explained. “They are eager to develop their skill sets in AI and expect employers to provide the resources and environment to make that possible.”
Companies that invest in robust AI programs and foster innovation-friendly cultures are likely to have an edge in attracting top-tier talent.
Leadership Transitions Reflect Industry Dynamics
Several notable leadership changes underscore the evolving landscape of corporate finance. Marc D. Graff has been appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Ciena Corporation, effective August 1. Graff brings nearly three decades of experience, having previously served as SVP and CFO at Altera Corporation and held executive roles at Intel across various business units.
Meanwhile, Tim Karaca has been promoted to SVP and CFO of SolarWinds effective June 16. Karaca has been with the company for three years, overseeing strategic finance and investor relations. His broader career includes finance leadership positions at AIG, Microsoft, and Bridgewater Associates.
Finance Leaders Brace for Tariff-Driven Inflation
Grant Thornton’s Q2 2025 CFO survey reveals growing concern among finance leaders over the U.S. economy. Over 75% of respondents expect rising tariffs to lead to inflation and increased prices. However, companies are proactively implementing strategies to mitigate these effects.
Key measures include adjusting supply chains (46%), conducting frequent scenario planning (42%), adopting cost-reducing technologies (39%), and raising prices (35%). The survey polled 260 finance leaders from organizations generating more than $100 million in annual revenue.
Federal Reserve Maintains Interest Rates
In related economic developments, the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady and reiterated its forecast for two rate cuts later in 2025. Although concerns about the economy persist, Fed Chair Jerome Powell pointed to data indicating continued strength. “Uncertainty about the economic outlook has diminished but remains elevated,” the Fed noted in a recent statement.
Blockchain and Institutional Finance Innovation
In a notable move within the fintech space, JPMorgan Chase announced a pilot program for a new digital currency called JPMD, developed in partnership with Coinbase. Unlike a stablecoin, JPMD will function as a deposit token—essentially a digital representation of a bank deposit managed through blockchain technology.
“This pilot combines the credibility of both JPMorgan and Base to help bring institutional money into a more global economy,” said Jesse Pollack, VP of engineering at Coinbase.
This article is inspired by content from Fortune. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.