The financial sector, once a bastion of tradition and human expertise, is undergoing rapid changes driven by artificial intelligence (AI). From safeguarding transactions to guiding investments, artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping how we interact with money. Below, we’ll explore five ways AI is transforming the UK financial sector.

Enhanced fraud detection

Fraud is a constant nemesis in the financial world, costing UK businesses and consumers more than £165 billion annually. Advanced artificial intelligence algorithms are aiding the fight against this problem by analysing vast troves of transaction data in real time, identifying anomalies and suspicious patterns that might escape even the most seasoned fraud analyst. This allows financial institutions to move beyond reactive measures and proactively prevent fraud before it occurs.

Market analysis

Financial markets are notoriously complex and influenced by a multitude of factors. Many innovative trading platforms like Tradu feature intelligent tools to help traders with market analysis, but artificial intelligence is elevating these capabilities to the next level. AI algorithms can sift through vast amounts of historical data and news articles to identify trends and predict market movements, helping traders make more informed decisions.

Robo-advisors

Personalised financial advice is typically an expensive service but AI-powered robo-advisors are making tailored advice accessible to anyone. Robo-advisors ask users a series of questions about their income, investment horizon and risk appetite. Based on this information, robo-advisors construct a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other assets. Unlike traditional financial advisors, robo-advisors typically charge lower fees, making them an attractive option for cost-conscious investors.

Algorithmic trading

The world of finance operates at lightning speed, and AI-powered algorithmic trading systems are pushing the boundaries even further, analysing market data, identifying trading opportunities and executing trades in a fraction of a second. This technology allows for high-frequency trading strategies that capitalise on fleeting market inefficiencies. While primarily used by institutional investors at the moment, the technology is slowly filtering down to retail investors.

Democratisation of services

Ensuring everyone has access to essential financial services is a critical issue. Artificial intelligence is playing a crucial role in breaking down barriers and making the sector sector more accessible, with AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants providing 24/7 customer support, answering basic questions and guiding users through various products. Additionally, artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to automate tasks like account opening and loan applications, streamlining the process for individuals who might have previously faced hurdles in accessing financial services.

Enhancing the financial sector

The role of human experts is being augmented, not replaced, by artificial intelligence. From fraud detection to investment planning, AI is acting as a powerful supplement for human expertise, empowering institutions and individuals alike to navigate the complexities of money in the UK.