Technological advancements have paved the way for banks and financial institutions to broaden their services globally. However, despite ongoing efforts to tackle disparities in access, systemic biases persist, including those related to race, gender, income disparities, and unequal lending practices, contributing to financial inequality.
Prioritising financial inclusion is crucial for fostering global economic growth and AI plays a significant role in achieving this objective.
AI is enhancing financial inclusion by providing financial education and minimising fraud in transactions, empowering previously underserved populations.
The Impact of Financial Inclusion
Impact on Individuals
It is transformative for poverty reduction, empowering marginalised populations to save and invest, providing a tangible path out of poverty. Additionally, access to insurance and savings accounts enhances personal resilience, helping individuals navigate financial risks associated with unforeseen events like health crises, natural disasters, and economic downturns. Financial inclusion is the first step towards social equity.
Impact on the Economy
It fuels economic growth by supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, job creation, and overall development. Beyond individual empowerment, it plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges, particularly by facilitating climate action in communities most affected by climate change.
Many market participants recognise the profound impact that financial inclusion can have on the economy and are collectively taking action.
Here are some examples of how they are leveraging AI to promote financial inclusion.
Click here to download ‘Bridging Gaps: AI’s Role in Financial Inclusion’ as a PDF
Four years ago, at the Singapore FinTech Festival (SFF) 2019, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced the Veritas framework and consortium for responsible use of AI. Veritas was a trailblazing initiative to set common standards for responsible AI adoption in financial services.
Fast-forward to 2023, and SFF 2023 is themed around the applications of AI in financial services – or in short: “AI for good. AI for good?”. So, what can we expect from this year’s event?
Here is what I am looking forward to at the event:
- The new thematic categories of the Global FinTech Awards – especially the one for Artificial Intelligence
- AI & Existential Change: Dialogue With Oscar-Nominated Film Director featuring Shekhar Kapur
- Global Insights: Productivity Polarity In The Age Of AI with Thomas Dohmke
- The AI Evolution: Hyper-Personalised Experiences Fuelled By Customer AI with insights from Jeff Lawson
Read on to find out why these sessions promise to be interesting!
Click here to download ‘AI Takes Centre Stage at SFF 2023: What Can We Expect?’ as a PDF