Industry trends impacting 2026 and beyond for leaders in financial services overseeing use of AI

As financial institutions move from experimentation to enterprise-wide deployment, the AI agenda is becoming more complex and more consequential. We examine the key trends shaping how AI is being adopted, governed and scaled across financial services, from the rise of agentic systems and evolving regulatory expectations, to the growing pressure to demonstrate real commercial value. Drawing on GlobalData’s latest research, we explore how leading firms are prioritising investment, where momentum is building, and where risks are emerging. This session provides a clear view of what leaders need to focus on now to stay competitive, compliant and credible as AI matures.