AI takes the lead in UK finance companies: more than 73% now using or exploring AI
A new Moneypenny survey of 750 UK businesses reveals that artificial intelligence is fast becoming a cornerstone of UK business operations, and this trend is particularly pronounced in the finance sector in which 73% of companies are now using, or considering using AI to drive efficiency, enhance decision-making and supercharge growth. This compares with an average of two thirds of companies across all industry sectors, suggesting the finance sector is forging ahead in AI adoption.
The research, commissioned by customer conversation experts Moneypenny, shows that finance companies are most likely to be using or considering using AI in analytics and reporting (86%) followed by marketing and content creation (85%) and then customer support and chatbots (83%) as they lean into AI to handle repetitive tasks, unlock productivity, and deliver faster, smarter outcomes.
Key Findings
1. More than 73% of UK finance companies are now using or exploring AI
- Analytics and reporting are the top area of AI adoption
- 57% of finance companies are already use AI for analytics and reporting, compared to an industry average of 47% and 55% are using AI for customer service/chatbots, compared to an industry average of 45%
2. AI’s Value Is Clear: Time, Efficiency and Savings
- Most-cited benefits by finance companies: time saving (54%), productivity gains (48%), cost savings (42%).
- Businesses are turning to AI not just for automation — but for better, faster decision-making: 29% of finance companies are using AI for this function.
6. But Concerns Remain
- Top AI concerns for finance companies: staff anxiety about potential job losses (43%), data security (42%), and customers potentially being neglected (34%).
- The message is clear: AI adoption must be ethical, transparent, and people-first with a human safety layer.
7. Businesses Want More Support
- 62% of all responding finance companies that have implemented AI say they need better guidance on how to implement AI effectively.
- Most trusted sources of AI info for finance companies: AI providers (52%), followed by review sites and business advice sites (both 42%) and then government advice sites (38%).
Louise Walpole, head of finance sector at Moneypenny comments: “This research shows that AI agents can deliver real impact but success depends on how they’re used. AI isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. What matters is creating experiences that are personal, relevant, and contextually right. Many businesses benefit because a large proportion of their customer interactions are about routine, frequently asked questions which AI can handle brilliantly. That frees up real people to focus on the more complex, sensitive or high-value conversations. It’s about using the right blend of tech and people to deliver the best possible customer experience.”
Research commissioned by Censuswide between 1 – 6 May 2025 amongst 750 UK businesses.