Securities firms are accelerating their use of artificial intelligence (AI) to innovate operations. Some companies are incorporating AI usage into their key performance indicators (KPIs), reflecting a broader organizational shift. Previously limited to experimental use in select departments, AI is now being encouraged at the enterprise level and integrated deeply into daily operations.
According to the financial investment industry on May 8, some securities firms have begun identifying departments where AI can be utilized and including AI-driven performance improvement metrics in their KPIs this year. Major firms like Shinhan Investment Corp. and Hana Securities are reportedly adopting policies to reflect AI-related KPIs in departments as overall AI usage increases.
Before showcasing AI-driven customer services externally, securities firms are enhancing internal efficiency through AI. They are expanding AI adoption in repetitive and extensive tasks such as report writing, research, and data analysis.
While strategies and implementation speeds vary among firms, a common direction is the 'close-to-business application' of AI. KB Securities is advancing its AI initiatives through its newly established AI Digital Headquarters, which was created in 2025. The organization has been segmented to separate data strategy, AI model development, and infrastructure operations, broadening AI applications to complex areas such as investment analysis, legal review, risk management, and customer consultation. The firm is also transitioning from simple automation to a stage of 'agentic AI' that supports decision-making.
Korea Investment & Securities has been increasing AI utilization by having a dedicated team assess the applicability of AI solutions across its divisions since the beginning of the year. Notably, it has established an environment where investment information is delivered promptly through AI translations of overseas research materials obtained in collaboration with global financial firms.
There are also examples of generative AI platforms linked to internal systems. One securities firm has created an AI work portal within its groupware, offering interactive services that support everything from file uploads to analysis and summarization. Additionally, most securities firms are expanding AI training for employees and collaborating with external AI solution companies to broaden their reach.
However, the unique security regulations in the financial sector continue to pose challenges to widespread AI adoption. Principles such as network separation limit the scope of generative AI usage. Although the Financial Services Commission announced a 'Roadmap for Improving Network Separation in the Financial Sector' in August 2024 to suggest regulatory easing, cautious approaches remain prevalent in the field.
Despite these challenges, the financial investment industry is focusing on the structural changes that AI adoption may bring. There is a growing atmosphere where not only back-office staff but also front-line personnel in private banking and investment banking are autonomously utilizing AI. It is anticipated that the scope of AI reflected in KPIs will gradually expand in the future.
A securities firm representative stated, "AI can process vast amounts of information and handle repetitive tasks much faster and more accurately. This allows us to allocate the time saved to more essential tasks, such as customer consultations and risk management, thereby enhancing overall organizational competitiveness."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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