Use of artificial intelligence spreading rapidly in the financial sector: FIN-FSA stresses the importance of risk management

The growth in the use of AI is particularly evident in the utilisation of generative AI and general-purpose artificial intelligence models. Their usage has risen from 74% to 90% over the year.  AI agents and agentic artificial intelligence also emerged in the survey as a new phenomenon whose significance is expected to increase.

The use of artificial intelligence has also increased at the customer interface in the financial sector. At the same time, AI governance practices and staff training have strengthened in all company size categories. The FIN-FSA considers it important that, as the use of AI expands, the related competence, governance and responsible practices also develop.

“The use of artificial intelligence has become part of the everyday work of financial sector entities. As the utilisation of AI continues to increase, it is essential that companies take care of AI governance, define internal responsibilities and build up their competence," says Jussi Terho, Head of Division at the FIN-FSA.

According to the survey, there has been a clear improvement in the monitoring and ensuring of non-discrimination in all sectors. Responsible use of artificial intelligence requires that entities identify the risks related to the use cases and ensure that AI systems do not lead to discriminatory outcomes.

The survey also brought up high-risk use cases under the AI Act that have already been deployed or are planned to be developed. The AI Act does not prohibit high-risk use cases, but it imposes related risk management obligations.

“Financial sector entities must be able to demonstrate that the use of artificial intelligence is based on good risk management. Particularly in high-risk use cases, clear responsibilities, monitoring of systems and ensuring non-discrimination are emphasised. In addition, AI systems must meet the requirements laid down in the EU AI Act,” Terho continues.

In spring 2026, the FIN-FSA conducted an annual survey of the use of artificial intelligence by financial sector entities and its development outlook. 84 entities across different areas of the financial sector responded to the survey. The annual survey updated the information from the thematic review carried out in 2025.

For further information, please contact:

Jussi Terho, Head of Division. Requests for interviews are coordinated by FIN-FSA Communications, tel. +358 9 183 5030, weekdays 9.00–16.00.

Links:

Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Finnish Financial Sector 2026 (pdf)