A recent report by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) reveals a paradox within Singapore’s finance sector: whilst 80% of finance professionals are confident in their ability to learn and apply artificial intelligence (AI) skills, nearly half fear that AI could threaten their jobs. The Global Talent Trends 2026 report, which surveyed over 11,000 finance professionals worldwide, including 140 from Singapore, highlights the tension between technological advancement and job security.
The report underscores several key concerns among Singapore’s finance workforce. Trust in AI for recruitment is notably low, with only 41% of respondents believing AI algorithms can make fair and unbiased hiring decisions. This scepticism comes at a time when automation in recruitment is on the rise.
Additionally, the report highlights the importance of organisational values, with 70% of finance professionals considering a company’s stance on social and human rights issues as crucial in their employment decisions. Environmental roles are also attractive, drawing 63% of respondents, a figure higher than in many developed markets.
The generational diversity in the workplace is another challenge, as Singapore’s workforce now spans five generations. Over half of the respondents (53%) report that their organisations struggle to manage this diversity, exceeding the global average of 42%.
Despite a relatively high satisfaction with compensation, with 46% content with their pay, 52% plan to request a pay rise within the next year. Mental health remains a significant issue, with 52% of finance professionals reporting work-related mental health challenges.
The report also notes that 65% of respondents support mandatory office attendance for a set number of days each week, and 59% believe that being present in the office enhances promotion prospects. These findings suggest that whilst AI skills are being embraced, concerns about job security and workplace dynamics persist.
