Singapore’s corporate and investment banking (CIB) sector is at the forefront of AI talent investment, yet operational inefficiencies persist, according to Capgemini’s World Corporate and Investment Banking Report 2026. The report highlights that 90% of Singaporean CIBs encounter significant workflow bottlenecks, particularly in client onboarding and transaction reconciliation, surpassing global averages.
The report reveals that whilst Singaporean CIBs are investing heavily in AI, with 40% focusing on upskilling and 30% offering incentives for AI adoption, only 20% are actively recruiting AI talent. This contrasts with a global recruitment average of 40%. Despite these efforts, many banks struggle to move beyond pilot AI projects due to governance issues, with only 26% having centralised AI oversight.
Competition from non-bank financial institutions is intensifying, with 85% of corporate clients planning to engage with these entities within the next year. Clients demand real-time responsiveness and personalised services, yet only 23% of CIBs meet these expectations. Additionally, 92% of clients report limited integration with existing systems, necessitating manual workarounds.
Catherine Chedru-Refeuil, Global Head of Corporate and Investment Banking at Capgemini, stated, “Non-banks are closing the competitive gap with established corporate and investment banks. To succeed, CIBs must adopt a disciplined approach: creating enterprise-grade platforms and cultivating an ecosystem of trusted partners.”
As CIBs navigate these challenges, the report suggests a need for a comprehensive overhaul of operating models and technology foundations to enhance client engagement and reduce costs. The findings underscore the urgency for CIBs to adapt swiftly to maintain competitiveness in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.
