AFME responds to European Commission’s consultation on AI in the financial sector: „AFME does not advocate for additional AI-specific regulations”

The Association for Financial Markets in Europe (AFME) welcomes the opportunity to respond to the European Commission’s targeted consultation on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the financial sector.

James Kemp – Managing Director and Head of Technology and Operations at AFME, said:

“While traditional AI techniques remain relevant, recent advancements in Generative AI present new opportunities for value creation, particularly in service delivery, software development, and operational efficiencies.

Many of the risks associated with AI applications are not new and are commonly encountered with the use of technology. In response, our members have developed mature risk management frameworks, often utilising existing ‘Three Lines of Defence’ models. These frameworks are designed to align with existing regulatory requirements, standards, and guidance, ensuring compliance with sectoral regulations and supervision. Their goal is to safeguard investor protection, promote financial stability, and support well-functioning markets. Consequently, AFME members do not see that there would be additional benefit gained towards achieving these goals from additional financial services regulation for AI.

Among the key points from AFME’s consultation response are:

Transformative Potential: AFME members widely recognise AI as transformative for the wholesale banking sector, with significant benefits across multiple areas. Advances in Generative AI are seen as promising for unlocking new value opportunities.

Regulatory Perspective: AFME does not advocate for additional AI-specific regulations, as existing regulatory frameworks already encompass AI applications. Members have implemented comprehensive governance and controls driven by existing regulations, and are adapting these frameworks to cover new use cases enabled by Generative AI.

EU AI Act: Regarding the EU AI Act, AFME members express a preference for industry-agnostic principles rather than sector-specific guidance. They seek clarity on implementation details applicable across sectors, believing that this approach will facilitate effective regulation without unnecessary sectoral distinctions.