AI In Personal Finance: What Should You Use It For?

AI is increasingly making personal finance management more intuitive and accessible across the globe and Malaysia is catching up fast. In 2023, more than 70% of Malaysians were aware of fintech solutions- this was a significant rise from 56% in 2022. In fact, AI in finance is set to grow from USD 38.36 billion in 2024 to USD 190.33 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 30.6%. 

Moving forward, as AI continues to evolve, users can expect more tailored financial services, enhanced fraud detection, and improved decision-making tools. Let us examine the emergong AI trends in personal finance in Malaysia, challenges of AI in personal finance, scope and opportunities.

Top 5 ways AI is revolutionising personal finance

 1. AI-driven budgeting and expense tracking

One of the biggest ways AI is transforming personal finance is through smart budgetinrtless. By using machine learning algorithms, these apps predict future spending patterg apps that help people manage their money more efficiently. Apps like Plum, Cleo, and Emma help track spending and suggest ways to save more, making budgeting feel effons and provide real-time insights helping users stay on top of personal finance management.

Additionally, AI-powered virtual assistants can integrate seamlessly with banking apps, informing users about upcoming bills, unusual transactions, and potential savings opportunities. This helps users avoid overdraft fees and unnecessary expenses.

2. AI-powered investment strategies

Investment platforms, such as Nutmeg and Moneyfarm are integrating AI to offer more efficient portfolio management. They help create personalised investment plans based on individual goals and risk preferences, providing real-time updates and automated rebalancing, ensuring that investments align with market conditions and individual financial goals.

WIth latest advancements, AI is now helping with predictive analytics, offering insights into stock market trends and identifying potential investment opportunities before they become mainstream. One example of this is BlackRock’s Aladdin that uses machine learning and big data analytics to assess market trends, manage risk, and optimise investment decisions. Another great example is Google’s DeepMind that has successfully developed AI models that predict short-term stock movements with better-than-random accuracy by analysing financial statements, market news, and historical trends. 

3. Enhancing fraud detection and cybersecurity

With the rise of digital banking and online transactions, cybersecurity remains a significant concern. In Malaysia, according to the State of Scam Report 2024, losses due to online scams and cybercrime totalled to over RM 54 billion, equating to 3% of Malaysia’s GDP. 

This is where robust AI-driven cybersecurity solutions can help combat the evolving tactics of cybercriminals. Banks are using advanced technology to spot suspicious transactions and protect accounts from fraud, making online banking experience safer. AI-driven biometric authentication, such as facial recognition and voice analysis, can further strengthen cybersecurity measures.

4. AI and personalised financial advice

AI-driven chatbots and virtual financial advisors are reshaping the way individuals receive financial guidance. AI-powered assistants provide instant, data-driven insights tailored to a user’s financial profile. These tools analyse income, expenses, and long-term financial goals to offer personalised recommendations on savings, investments, and debt management.

Moreover, AI-powered assistants can help users optimise their financial planning by offering scenario analysis. For instance, they can simulate different retirement plans, mortgage options, and loan repayment strategies, allowing individuals to make well-informed decisions.

5. AI in loan and credit assessment

The traditional process of applying for a personal loan or credit card often involves lengthy paperwork and manual credit checks. AI is streamlining this process by assessing creditworthiness based on alternative data sources, including spending behaviour, employment history, and even social media activity.

Smart credit scoring systems go beyond just your credit history—they also consider factors like spending habits and job stability to provide a more accurate picture of your creditworthiness. This means that if you’ve been responsible with your money but don’t have a long credit history, you may still qualify for loans or credit cards that were previously out of reach. With AI-driven assessments, more people can access fairer lending opportunities, making financial inclusion a reality for many.

The role of AI in crypto and digital assets in Malaysia

Smart trading tools are making it easier for crypto investors by spotting good opportunities and helping to reduce the risks that come with market ups and downs. In countries like Malaysia, financial regulators are leveraging AI to monitor crypto transactions, detect illicit activities, and enforce policies aimed at safeguarding investors. 

For instance, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission has integrated AI and blockchain into its investigative processes to combat sophisticated financial crimes. Furthermore, the Securities Commission Malaysia regulates digital assets through comprehensive guidelines for digital asset exchanges (DAX), initial exchange offerings (IEO), and digital asset custodians (DAC).

Ethical considerations and challenges

While AI in personal finance has many advantages, challenges like data privacy, algorithmic biases, and the over-reliance on automation still need to be carefully managed. Banks and financial apps need to be open about how they make decisions using AI and put privacy and security first.

Additionally, as AI takes on more responsibilities in personal finance, there is a growing need for financial literacy. While AI can provide insights and recommendations, individuals must still have a fundamental understanding of their financial choices to make informed decisions.

The future of AI and finance

Looking ahead, AI will continue to reshape the financial landscape, making personal finance more efficient, inclusive, and secure. Innovations in machine learning, blockchain technology, and quantum computing will further enhance AI’s capabilities, offering even more sophisticated financial solutions.

For consumers, the key to leveraging AI in finance lies in staying informed, adopting AI-driven tools wisely, and maintaining a balance between automation and human oversight. As technology continues to evolve, the role of AI in personal finance will undoubtedly become even more prominent, transforming how we manage money in 2025 and beyond.

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