Financial Stability Board Considers Financial Stability Implications of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Financial Services

The Financial Stability Board has published a report prepared by experts from its Financial Innovation Network, which examines the potential financial stability implications of the growing use of artificial intelligence and machine learning by financial institutions. Data on the extent of adoption of this technology is still relatively limited, but the FSB considers that, overall, AI and machine learning applications show great promise for the financial services industry, provided that their specific risks are managed properly. Potential risks for financial stability should be monitored over the coming years as this technology is adopted and more usage data becomes available. These potential risks include the possibility of third-party dependencies, which may introduce new systemically important players outside the regulated sector. There is also a risk of new and unexpected forms of interconnectedness developing between financial markets and institutions. The FSB is also concerned that it is not possible to interpret all aspects of AI and machine learning methods and stresses the importance of ensuring adequate testing and training of AI and machine learning applications with unbiased data and feedback mechanisms, to ensure applications behave as intended. 

The Report sets out a number of selected use cases and considers the possible effects of AI and machine learning on financial markets, financial institutions, consumers and investors along with a macro-financial analysis of issues such as possible market concentration and interconnectedness. The Report also considers the legal and ethical issues around AI and machine learning and sets out some preliminary thoughts on governance and the development and auditability of models. 

View FSB Report.

View Press Release.