Around 89 percent of insurance and banking firms in the UK have introduced AI solutions over the past year. However, issues with data optimisation could hinder their impact. The researchers surveyed executives at top UK insurers and lenders about their AI strategies and found that 44 percent have deployed AI across eight or more business functions—especially in marketing, business development, and regulatory compliance.

Nearly 9 in 10 financial services leaders reported investing upwards of £7.9 million in AI over their last fiscal year. Over a third invested £39 million or more, exemplifying the industry’s willingness to commit major capital to AI implementation.

Despite the positive strides in AI integration, the study suggests that organisations might be overlooking the importance of prioritising their data operations. Nearly half (47%) admitted their organisations are only “minimally data driven,” raising concerns about the effectiveness of AI implementation without a solid data foundation.

AI could boost growth but worsen inequality

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicts that AI could boost global productivity and growth, but may displace jobs and worsen inequality.

In a new analysis, IMF economists examined AI’s potential impact on the global labour market. While many studies foresee jobs being automated by AI, the technology will often complement human work instead. The IMF analysis weighs up both scenarios.

The findings are striking: almost 40 percent of jobs globally are susceptible to automation or augmentation by AI.

Historically, new technologies have tended to affect routine tasks—but AI can also impact high-skilled roles. As a result, advanced economies face greater risks from AI but also stand to gain more of its benefits versus emerging markets.