Artificial intelligence has been making headlines for years, but 2025 marks a new turning point. According to KPMG’s AI Quarterly Pulse Survey, businesses are embracing AI agents at record speed, and resistance among employees is dropping sharply. What once sparked fear and hesitation is now being recognized as a tool for efficiency, growth, and competitive advantage. The survey highlights a cultural and operational shift: AI is no longer a distant concept, but a practical, everyday partner in the workplace.
AI agents differ from traditional AI tools in a fundamental way. Instead of serving as passive technologies, they act more like intelligent assistants: proactive, adaptable, and capable of handling complex tasks that extend beyond automation. Unlike chatbots or rule-based systems, AI agents can learn, analyze, and make decisions in real time.
KPMG’s survey reveals that more than half of U.S. executives have already deployed AI agents across their organizations. Adoption is particularly strong in industries such as financial services, healthcare, and technology, where efficiency and data-driven insights are critical to performance. As AI agents continue to evolve, their role is shifting from support tools to strategic enablers.
Perhaps the most striking finding from KPMG’s 2025 survey is the decline in workforce resistance. Only a few years ago, headlines warned of mass layoffs and distrust in automation. Today, employees are more open to AI’s role in their daily work.
This shift comes down to several factors:
Forward-thinking organizations are not just installing AI systems; they are reshaping their culture around collaboration between humans and machines. As a result, fears of job displacement are giving way to optimism about career growth and reskilling opportunities.
Why are companies investing so heavily in AI agents?
These benefits extend beyond short-term gains. Companies leveraging AI effectively are building a foundation for sustained growth in a rapidly changing economy.
Despite the positive momentum, AI adoption is not without its challenges.
These challenges underscore the need for a thoughtful, strategic approach to AI adoption. Businesses cannot afford to treat AI as a plug-and-play solution. Success requires careful planning, ongoing evaluation, and a commitment to building trust with employees.
At Hollinden, we help professional services firms embrace innovation while staying grounded in strategy. Whether you are exploring AI adoption or navigating growth, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to learn more.
What is an AI agent?
An AI agent is an intelligent system designed to act proactively, automate tasks, and provide decision support, often functioning as a virtual coworker.
Why is employee resistance to AI decreasing?
Employees are seeing the benefits firsthand: AI reduces repetitive work, enhances productivity, and provides opportunities for upskilling rather than outright replacement.
Which industries are adopting AI agents fastest?
Financial services, healthcare, and technology are leading the way, though adoption is spreading across all sectors.
What risks do AI agents pose for businesses?
Key risks include ethical challenges, data privacy issues, and the need for proper governance and oversight.
How should leaders prepare their workforce for AI adoption?
Leaders should prioritize transparent communication, invest in employee reskilling, and create a culture of collaboration between humans and AI systems.