CFA survey shows 70% graduates fear AI will hurt job prospects

A recent survey conducted by the CFA Institute reveals that more than 70% of graduates believe Artificial Intelligence (AI) will make it more challenging to land their ideal jobs. However, 92% of respondents also felt that developing skills in AI or automation tools would improve their career prospects.

The CFA Institute—a global organization of investment professionals—published its Global Graduate Outlook Survey 2025 on Thursday. The report is based on feedback from over 9,000 recent graduates, including 1,250 from India, and explores career outlooks, confidence levels, and industry preferences.

Notably, Indian graduates are more likely than their global peers to believe that AI and automation will hinder their ability to secure their desired roles, Indian Express reported.

According to the CFA Institute’s latest findings, just over half of recent graduates are confident in their ability to use AI effectively, while 56% believe that possessing AI skills—alongside essential soft skills—can provide a competitive advantage in the job market.

Interest in AI-related careers is also on the rise, increasing from 59% in 2024 to 63% in 2025, signalling a clear shift toward future-aligned fields. The report highlighted that this trend is being fueled by growing awareness and adaptability among graduates.

A senior representative of the CFA Institute in India, Arati Porwal, noted that for today’s generation, AI is viewed as a critical component of professional development rather than a mere option. She pointed out that graduates recognize the importance of acquiring AI-related skills for their career growth.

The report also emphasized that, for the third year in a row, the finance sector remains the most preferred career path among graduates, with 38% expressing the highest level of confidence in it. IT and education follow closely, at 32% and 21% respectively. This ranking is unchanged from the previous year’s survey.

The report highlights a notable rise in confidence among graduates regarding career prospects in the finance sector, with 38% now viewing it positively—up from 30% in the previous year.

Among those optimistic about careers in finance, 23% see it as a stable and appealing path, while 26% regard it as the most rewarding sector for building a career.

At the report’s launch event in Mumbai, Dr Archana Singh, a professor at D Y Patil University, observed that the finance industry is undergoing a transformation.

The survey also revealed that 40% of graduates are looking to secure employment immediately after completing their studies. Furthermore, there is a growing preference for certifications over traditional postgraduate degrees.

Around 68% of respondents believe certifications provide better career advancement opportunities, signalling a shift toward more flexible, outcome-oriented learning paths. Supporting this trend, 85% of Indian graduates reported that certifications have had a direct, positive impact on their employability or income.