AI traces back to ancient philosophers and mathematicians, but its modern interpretation emerged in the mid-20th century. Today, AI is a branch of computer science that focuses on giving machines or computer-controlled robots the ability to execute intelligent tasks. While some applications are getting headlines today, the concept and foundational technology have a rich development history.

A brief chronology of AI highlights the progression from 1950s chess-playing computer programs to adopting machine learning for tasks such as filtering spam and enhancing search engine capabilities in the 2000s.¹

By the 2010s, programmers had integrated AI into voice assistants, self-driving cars, and healthcare diagnostics. More recently, AI applications have expanded to almost every industry, from weather modeling to improving remote working and learning.²

However, what does AI’s proliferation mean for our future, specifically for your interactions with us as your financial professionals?

One thing is clear—AI’s capacity to quickly analyze large data sets far exceeds our human capacities. It promises to revolutionize several industries, but the notion that AI-infused machines may surpass human abilities, thus “taking over the world,” remains largely a matter of science fiction.

AI’s adoption in financial services has helped firms automate certain back-office functions, enhancing efficiency and providing more time for financial professionals to spend with clients like you. Your key financial decisions are seldom straightforward and often don’t have a simple right or wrong answer. They require a nuanced approach informed by your unique circumstances, including risk tolerance, time horizon, goals, and, of course, emotional factors.

Financial professionals bridge the gap between cold data and human emotions. We know how to balance financial data with common sense and empathy. While AI can aid in data-driven technical aspects of financial services, it lacks the human touch, which remains paramount.

Please remember that the most effective guidance requires trust, effective communication, realistic expectations, and a comprehensive understanding of each client’s financial situation. In our professional relationship, we prioritize your needs over technological advances.

As we navigate the AI wave, we may see it as the next technology that will drastically change our lives, similar to personal computers, the internet, and cell phones. It certainly has the potential to be one of the 21st century’s most transformative technologies. However, its emergence only highlights the importance of the human element in decision-making processes and the unique, personalized approach a financial professional like myself can provide.

If you have questions about AI and its implications on your financial journey or other concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s our goal to stay ahead of these trends and provide you with the most up-to-date information about industry trends.  Call in to our offices at 661-847-1000, email info@moneywiseguys.com or feel free to text in any questions to 661-396-1000.