A new study by bunq, the second-largest neobank in Europe, currently pursuing a U.S. banking license, reveals a significant shift in how Americans manage their finances. The AI in Finance Report indicates that over one-third of Americans now use AI to assist with financial decision-making, often treating it as a “second opinion” to reduce the mental load of money management.
Key insights from the report
The research highlights that the benefits of AI in finance depend heavily on how users interact with the technology:
- The saving gap: Users who engage with AI as a genuine thinking partner to understand their finances are six times more likely to report saving money compared to those who do not engage in the same way.
- Honesty without judgment: Approximately 25% of respondents feel more candid discussing their finances with an AI than with another human, citing a lack of social pressure or embarrassment.
- High-stress support: One in four Americans turn to AI during critical moments, such as deciding which bills to prioritize or evaluating major purchases.
AI as a “social gym” for financial literacy
Behavioral scientist Dr. Nick Hobson suggests that the psychological distance provided by AI acts as a low-stakes rehearsal space. By discussing sensitive financial topics with an algorithm, users become more prepared to have those same “tricky” conversations, like asking for a raise or setting boundaries with family in the real world.
Joe Wilson, Chief Evangelist at bunq, emphasized the importance of seamless integration:
“The real impact happens when AI moves beyond being just another feature and becomes something people actually rely on because it consistently makes things easier. The value comes from reducing friction, not adding more noise.”
