Citizens Financial Group Inc. has released its third annual AI Trends in Financial Management Survey, revealing a significant acceleration in artificial intelligence investment among middle market companies and private equity firms. The survey found that 82% of middle market businesses plan to increase AI spending over the next five years, a substantial rise from 58% in 2023 and 69% in 2024. Companies are reporting tangible benefits, including an average 35% return on investment and notable improvements in financial process efficiency. Fraud prevention remains a top AI use case, with nearly half of middle market firms already leveraging AI for fraud detection and 62% of private equity firms identifying it as a key short-term benefit. Additionally, nearly all private equity respondents view a strong AI strategy as an attractive trait in acquisition targets, underscoring AI's growing influence on company valuations and investment decisions.