The growing role of artificial intelligence in banks
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a fundamental element in the banking sector, affecting every aspect of operations. From customer management to the automation of internal processes, AI offers advanced tools for analyzing and predicting data. However, despite progress, many banks are still a long way from fully integrating these technologies. Large banking groups, such as Intesa Sanpaolo and Unicredit, are investing billions to remain competitive, but small and medium-sized banks struggle
to keep up.
Significant investments and strategic plans
In recent years, major players in the banking sector have announced ambitious investment plans. Intesa Sanpaolo has forecast 5 billion euros for the period 2022 to 2025, while Unicredit has allocated 3 billion between 2022 and 2024. Banco BPM and Bper have also planned significant investments, of 600 million and 500 million respectively. These investments are not only aimed at modernizing infrastructure, but also at improving the quality of services offered to customers. However, it is crucial that banks not only focus on technology, but also on staff training to ensure effective use of new solutions
.
Training and skills: the key to success
In 2023, banking groups invested more than 17 million hours in staff training, covering crucial areas such as anti-money laundering, compliance and digital security. Continuing training is essential to face the challenges posed by technological innovation. Without adequate skill development, the risk is to create inequalities between skilled and unskilled workers. Banks must therefore focus on technological inclusion, valuing existing skills and preparing staff to face the uncertainties related to
the adoption of AI.
The ethical and security challenges of AI
Despite the benefits, adopting artificial intelligence also brings with it significant challenges. Among these, data security and ethics in the use of technologies are paramount. Banks must ensure that data is managed securely and in compliance with European regulations. In addition, it is essential that employees are trained not only in the use of technologies, but also in the ethical principles that govern their application. Only in this way can we guarantee a responsible use of AI, which favors the growth and competitiveness of the
sector.