Egan-Jones says AI could cut professional-services fees

Egan-Jones projects that artificial intelligence will put downward pressure on fees, margins, and staffing levels across professional services, including audit, consulting, law, and engineering. The ratings firm expects smaller, AI-enabled teams to reshape how these services are delivered and priced.

The analysis points to a shift in the economics of high-value advisory work. As AI allows leaner teams to handle tasks that once required larger workforces, firms may face growing pressure from clients to pass through productivity savings. The report urges leaders to redesign delivery models and pricing structures before clients begin demanding those concessions outright.