The pace of change inside companies has accelerated significantly over the past year, according to the study Leading without a landing, conducted by the strategic consultancy H Advisors in partnership with the research company YouGov. The report analyses how organisations are adapting to a business environment marked by volatility, technological transformation and increasing complexity.
In Portugal, the results show a clear trend: three out of four business leaders say the pace of change accelerated during the last year, and more than 80% expect to increase the scale of transformation initiatives in the coming months.
This environment of continuous change affects not only operations, but also planning, reporting, investment decisions and the way companies manage risk.
Companies are changing faster than their sectors
According to the study, 75% of business leaders in Portugal say their organisations experienced a faster pace of change in the last year, while 82% expect transformation initiatives to intensify over the next 12 months. In addition, 74% believe their company has changed more than the sector where it operates.
The report suggests that companies are no longer dealing with isolated adjustments, but with multiple changes happening at the same time.
Among the main drivers identified by executives are:
- Technological developments
- Artificial intelligence
- Economic conditions
- Increasing customer expectations
These factors are forcing organisations to adapt more quickly and to make decisions in shorter timeframes.
Faster change increases the need for financial clarity
When companies operate in an environment of continuous transformation, access to reliable financial information becomes more important.
Expansion, restructuring, new investments or entry into new markets require:
- Updated accounting records
- Regular financial reporting
- Cost and profitability analysis
- Tax impact evaluation
- Clear visibility over obligations
Without structured accounting and reporting, it becomes difficult to understand the real impact of business decisions.
For companies operating in Portugal, this is particularly relevant, as local accounting and tax rules must be followed even when management decisions are taken abroad.
Technology is driving change, but organisation remains essential
The study identifies technological developments, especially artificial intelligence, as one of the main factors accelerating change inside organisations. However, the report also highlights that transformation depends on leadership, communication and internal organisation.
Differences in perception between management roles show that while CEOs tend to be more optimistic about their company’s ability to adapt, other executives are more cautious about the real level of preparedness.
The report also points out that unclear strategy, weak communication and lack of preparation can become major obstacles during periods of transformation.
Reporting and structure become more important in uncertain environments
In a context where companies are required to adapt more frequently, weaknesses in internal processes become more visible.
Common issues include:
- Lack of updated financial information
- Delays in reporting
- Poor visibility over costs and margins
- Difficulty preparing for audits or inspections
- Uncertainty about tax and regulatory obligations
Structured accounting and regular reporting allow companies to respond more quickly and make decisions with greater confidence.
This is particularly important for international companies operating in Portugal, where local reporting requirements must be aligned with group-level decisions.
A changing environment requires stronger financial organisation
The study shows that companies are operating in a context of continuous transformation, driven by technology, economic pressure and rising expectations from clients and investors.
In this environment, accounting and reporting are no longer limited to compliance. They play a key role in supporting planning, monitoring performance and ensuring that companies can adapt to change without losing control over their financial position.
Businesses operating in Portugal should ensure that their accounting and reporting framework is properly organised, especially when dealing with growth, restructuring or international activity.
For further clarification on accounting, reporting or compliance obligations, you can reach out through our contact page.
