A recent study by Blackbox Research has revealed that every young investor in Singapore now utilises artificial intelligence (AI) to guide their investment decisions. This comprehensive adoption signifies a major shift in how investment advice is accessed, posing a significant challenge to traditional financial institutions and human advisers. The study, titled “Algorithms and Ambitions,” highlights that 56% of young investors consider AI their top source of investment information, surpassing licensed advisers.
David Black, CEO of Blackbox Research, noted the inevitability of AI’s integration into daily life but expressed surprise at its universal adoption in investment decision-making. “Financial institutions will need to adapt fast — or risk being left behind,” he stated. Despite AI’s popularity, nearly half of the respondents reported negative experiences, primarily due to outdated data or inaccurate predictions.
The report urges financial institutions to move beyond superficial AI integration and develop specialised, high-trust AI solutions. High-value investors are already leveraging AI for complex tasks such as tax analysis, indicating a market gap for more sophisticated AI offerings. Investors are also demanding privacy, explainability, and human oversight in future AI iterations.
The study surveyed 276 Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents aged 25 to 39, who have made at least one non-residential investment in the past two years. The findings offer a data-driven blueprint for financial service providers and technology developers navigating the evolving investment landscape.