Artificial intelligence is changing how business valuation work is performed, but it is making informed professional judgment more important, not less. That was the central message of Future of Valuation: AI, Complexity, and the Skills That Matter Next, a leadership panel hosted by CBV Institute on 21 October 2026.
Moderated by Dr. Christine Sawchuk, MEd, EdD, CPA, CA, CBV, President and CEO of CBV Institute, the panel featured Monika Manza CPA, CFA, CBV (KPMG Canada), Kshitij Patel, CA, CBV (73 Strings), Sanjay Persaud CA, CFA, CBV (CPP Investments) and Chris Polson MBA, CFF, CPA, CMA, CFA, FCIArb, CBV (PwC Canada). Together, they examined how artificial intelligence, growing asset complexity and rising external scrutiny are reshaping business valuation.
AI assists, but does not conclude
Panelists agreed that the most common misconception is that AI can perform a business valuation from start to finish. AI excels at gathering and synthesizing large volumes of data, but selecting assumptions, weighing conflicting evidence and defending the conclusion remain the work of a CBV. Rather than reducing demand, efficiency gains are leading clients to ask for more valuations, more frequently. Panelists emphasized that successful adoption starts with process redesign, training and strong governance, with layered review serving as the key safeguard against error and bias.
Complexity and scrutiny are rising
Established valuation approaches remain sound, but inputs are becoming more complex, particularly for intangible assets, illiquid holdings and portfolios exposed to geopolitical and policy risk. As private markets grow and retail capital enters them, auditors, regulators and the courts expect valuations that are clearly documented and defensible.
The skills that matter next
The panel agreed that business valuation is a strong career choice, and that the CBV designation provides the credibility, technical foundation and conceptual perspective the profession demands. Their advice to early-career professionals:
- stay curious,
- practice disciplined analytical reasoning,
- produce work that can be defended, and;
- gain hands-on experience with AI.
We thank our panelists and everyone who joined us for a candid and thought-provoking discussion.
Learn more about the CBV designation here.
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