AI Can Redefine Financial Services but the Key to Wealth Lies in How its Applied

Everyone is talking about artificial intelligence (AI). From fintech conferences to Instagram reels, AI is hailed as the next big disruptor in finance. But here’s the real question—does all this unsolicited advice actually help investors? Or are we witnessing a flood of generic recommendations that fail to address the nuanced needs of individuals?

The investment landscape today is cluttered with AI tools and platforms promising effortless wealth growth. Yet, many investors walk away with strategies that look great on paper but fail to align with their actual goals, risk appetite or life stage. The key isn’t just having AI in the mix—it’s about how AI is applied to deliver relevant, impactful and truly personalised advice.

Data Overload is Real

AI’s ability to process seemingly infinite amounts of data is its greatest strength. But with this power comes a paradox: more data doesn’t necessarily lead to better decisions. In fact, when used indiscriminately, it can overwhelm investors with information that distracts rather than guides.

Take McKinsey & Company’s report, which shows that 70% of investment firms have already integrated AI into their operations. While this has resulted in a 15% increase in portfolio returns and a 20% reduction in management costs, the real value lies not in the quantity of data, but in how it's applied. AI needs to be harnessed to sift through the noise and present only the most relevant insights, tailored to each investor's unique goals, risk tolerance and financial situation.

AI can analyse data and help forecast market shifts, but it lacks the emotional intelligence and personal touch that make investing a human experience. Long-term goals, personal obligations and evolving life circumstances can’t always be distilled into algorithms.

The winning formula lies in blending AI’s analytical prowess with human empathy and experience. AI handles the heavy lifting as well as the simpler cases, allowing for large-scale adoption, while financial advisors apply their judgment to shape these insights into more complex strategies as the individual's portfolio grows. This collaboration and balance results in financial plans that are not only data-driven but also deeply aligned with the investor’s personal story. By letting AI streamline processes, educate users and surface opportunities, it gives investors the confidence to get started with less friction and advisors the ability to focus on the human aspects of investing as complexities grow—understanding unique life goals and adapting strategies to reflect changing priorities.

Cutting Through the Noise

One of the biggest pitfalls in AI-driven advisory today is a lack of transparency. How does AI arrive at its recommendations? Are the algorithms biased? Investors are increasingly wary of “black box” solutions that leave them in the dark about how their money is being managed.

The solution? Radical transparency. Investors must know when AI is at play, what data it’s using and how final recommendations are made. AI cannot operate without oversight; it must function as part of a larger ecosystem where human review and rigorous testing are part of the process. Data security also plays a critical role. As AI tools gather vast amounts of personal and financial information, safeguarding this data is paramount. Regulatory bodies are pushing for stronger data protection frameworks to ensure that AI-driven platforms are not only innovative but also secure and compliant. Robust encryption, strict access controls and transparent data usage policies will be the cornerstone of responsible AI adoption in finance.

India’s AI Moment in Finance

In nascent markets like India, where financial literacy is still extremely low, AI can be a game-changer but only if applied thoughtfully. Generic, one-size-fits-all investment advice won’t cut it. AI must be tuned to the realities of a diverse population with different levels of financial awareness. This means not just simplifying complex financial concepts but adapting advisory services to cater to hyper-local needs and educating people in the context of the problem they are facing. Arming them with the information that allows people to make the right decision for their needs.

Additionally, regulatory bodies are already stepping in to shape how AI can and should be used in financial advisories. Ethical AI frameworks, investor disclosures and algorithm audits are becoming part of the new normal, ensuring investors are protected while innovation flourishes.

AI will continue to redefine investment advisory, but the platforms that stand out will be the ones that use AI to empower, not overwhelm. The future belongs to those who recognise that investors don’t just want information—they want clarity, relevance and a partner who understands the bigger picture.

As AI continues to evolve, its role will shift from being a flashy add-on to becoming an integral part of personalised, transparent and human-centric financial services. It will be as relevant, essential and common as electricity. And for investors, that’s not just exciting—it’s necessary.

The author is chief executive and co-founder, MyFi. Views are personal.