Jacob Parker-Bowles Fintech in Asia

  Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) has moved from pattern recognition to goal-directed behaviour . The shift is powered by agentic models —systems that don’t just predict the next token, but perceive, plan, act, and learn in pursuit of objectives. For businesses and researchers, this unlocks workflows that are too dynamic for rules engines and too open-ended for traditional machine learning. This article explains what agentic AI is, how it differs from earlier waves of AI, where it’s already producing impact, and what to expect over the next 12–24 months. What Are Agentic Models? An agentic model combines a large model (often an LLM) with a loop that lets it: Perceive : read data, files, APIs, or the current state of an environment. Plan : decompose goals into steps (task planning/tool selection). Act : call tools, write code, trigger workflows, or interact with users/systems. Reflect : analyse outcomes, update memory, and iterate. Typical Architecture...

As a PhD student studying the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and finance, with 18 years of experience in finance compliance and fraud prevention, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative potential of technology in reshaping financial systems. Southeast Asia, with its rapidly growing digital economy, is emerging as a global hub for AI innovation. The region’s projected economic boost from AI—potentially adding $1 trillion to GDP by 2030—offers unprecedented opportunities, but it also raises critical challenges in compliance and fraud prevention that demand scrutiny. Let’s dive into how AI is reshaping finance in Southeast Asia, the hurdles it faces, and what this means for the future. The AI Boom in Southeast Asia: Economic Promise and Potential Southeast Asia’s digital economy is on a meteoric rise, driven by a young, tech-savvy population and robust government support. According to the 2024 e-Conomy SEA report , the region’s digital economy could nearly triple from $3...

  Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a critical driver of socioeconomic transformation in developing nations. In Southeast Asia, Cambodia is increasingly emerging as a promising landscape for AI development and digital innovation. Despite historical infrastructural and educational challenges, the Kingdom of Cambodia is demonstrating a proactive stance in shaping a technologically inclusive future for its citizens. Through strategic policy implementation, international partnerships, and capacity-building efforts, the Cambodian government is aligning itself with the global digital economy while ensuring national sovereignty and developmental equity. The Strategic Role of the Cambodian Government The Royal Government of Cambodia has acknowledged the pivotal role of AI and digital transformation in its policy frameworks. The "Cambodia Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021–2035" stands as a cornerstone initiative, outlining the vision to develop ...

  Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionize financial services, driving efficiency, security, and customer experience improvements. As we step into 2025, the first quarter has already showcased significant advancements in AI-driven financial solutions. From enhanced fraud detection to AI-powered investment strategies, financial institutions are leveraging AI more than ever to stay competitive. This article explores the latest AI innovations in financial services in Q1 2025, their impact, and the trends shaping the future of the industry. Key AI Innovations in Q1 2025 1. AI-Powered Fraud Detection and Risk Management Financial institutions are facing increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. In response, AI-driven fraud detection systems have evolved to analyze vast datasets in real time, identifying anomalies and preventing fraudulent transactions before they occur. Companies are deploying Generative AI-powered anomaly detection models that adapt to...

  Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic dream—it is the backbone of modern technology, transforming industries and daily life. From natural language processing (NLP) chatbots to advanced deep learning models, AI systems have become more sophisticated and competitive. However, this rapid evolution has also sparked an AI arms race, with tech giants and startups alike battling for dominance in the field. This article explores the leading AI systems, their capabilities, and the ongoing AI wars between developers striving to build the most advanced and commercially successful AI technologies. The Major AI Systems in 2024 AI systems can be categorized into several types, each serving different functions across various sectors. Here are some of the most prominent AI platforms currently shaping the technological landscape: 1. Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Chatbots ChatGPT (OpenAI) : One of the most well-known AI systems, OpenAI’s ChatGPT has evolved fr...

In an increasingly complex global financial landscape, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a crucial tool in enhancing compliance processes, particularly in Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Business (KYB) practices. This blog post delves into how AI is reshaping these critical areas, addressing global challenges, and navigating the intricate web of international sanctions. Introduction The financial industry faces mounting pressure to comply with stringent regulations aimed at combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and other illicit activities. AML and KYB protocols are at the forefront of these efforts, requiring businesses to verify identities, monitor transactions, and ensure they are not facilitating illegal activities. However, traditional compliance methods often struggle to keep pace with the sophistication of financial criminals and the sheer volume of transactions. Enter Artificial Intelligence—a transformative technology offering new possibilities f...