AI Surge Takes Center Stage in 2025 Earnings Calls

CEOs and CFOs Emphasize AI Surge in 2025 Earnings Calls CEOs and CFOs of S&P 500 companies have made it clear that artificial intelligence (AI) is a top priority, with the term being cited on a record 306 earnings calls from September 15 through December 4, according to a FactSet analysis. This marks the highest number of S&P 500 earnings calls on which AI has been cited over the past 10 years, surpassing the previous record of 292 in Q2 2025. The surge in AI mentions on earnings calls is not only a reflection of the growing importance of AI in the business world but also a testament to the increasing adoption of AI technologies by S&P 500 companies. The information technology (95) and communication services (95) sectors have the highest percentages of earnings calls citing AI for Q3, indicating that these industries are at the forefront of AI adoption. A closer look at the data reveals that S&P 500 companies that cited AI on their Q3 earnings calls have seen a higher average price increase since December 31, 2024, compared to those that did not. The average price increase for companies that mentioned AI was 13.9% since December 31, 2024, compared to 5.7% for those that did not. Similarly, the average price increase for companies that mentioned AI was 8.1% since June 30, 2025, compared to 3.9% for those that did not. The trend of increasing AI adoption among S&P 500 companies is a significant development in the business world. As AI continues to transform industries and create new opportunities, companies that are early adopters are likely to reap the benefits. However, the increasing reliance on AI also raises concerns about job displacement and the need for workers to develop new skills. In contrast to the growing emphasis on AI, the term "uncertainty" has seen a decline in mentions on S&P 500 earnings calls. According to FactSet's analysis, the number of earnings calls citing "uncertainty" has decreased by 25% compared to the same period last year. This decline is likely a reflection of the growing confidence among CEOs and CFOs in their companies' ability to navigate the challenges of the business world. The shift towards AI and away from uncertainty is a significant development in the business world. As companies continue to invest in AI technologies, they are likely to see significant benefits in terms of increased efficiency and productivity. However, the increasing reliance on AI also raises concerns about the need for workers to develop new skills and the potential for job displacement. In conclusion, the surge in AI mentions on S&P 500 earnings calls is a significant development in the business world. As companies continue to invest in AI technologies, they are likely to see significant benefits in terms of increased efficiency and productivity. However, the increasing reliance on AI also raises concerns about the need for workers to develop new skills and the potential for job displacement.