In early March 2026, senior leaders from across the financial sector gathered in Zurich for a discussion hosted by NZZ Finanzplatz on the future of artificial intelligence in finance. Among the participants was Ian Keates, CEO of Altoo AG. What became evident during that exchange was not enthusiasm for another technological cycle, but a recognition that something more structural is underway. Artificial intelligence is already embedded across the industry. The more pressing question is how institutions retain control once it begins to influence financial decisions in meaningful ways. Here, Ian shares his thoughts on the impact of AI in the