In a groundbreaking move for the local banking sector, Garanti BBVA Romania introduces GIA, the country’s first AI finfluencer. Initially launched in June 2024 as a chatbot aimed at enhancing customer experience, GIA has since evolved with advanced AI technology into the “digital voice and face” of the brand, now present across the bank’s website and all its social media channels.
Developed in collaboration with the communication agency Oxygen, from character creation to animation and the virtual world where GIA operates, Garanti BBVA’s AI finfluencer plays a key role in fostering an online community.
„This community allows users to discuss, ask questions, and share their financial perspectives. GIA communicates in a friendly and natural manner, offering a mix of digital news, information about the bank’s products and services, and essential topics on financial education and digital safety.” – according to the press release.
“With this initiative, we are introducing an innovative approach to digital communication, providing our customers with useful information and an interactive digital experience. As the first finance specialist influencer power by AI, GIA is more than just a virtual assistant – it is a friendly digital voice attuned to the needs and expectations of our audience,” said Tolga Banyocu – Deputy General Manager, Client Solutions Area, Garanti BBVA.
Over the past months, GIA has undergone significant development and acquired new functionalities. It can now calculate payment amounts for personal loans according to specific customer needs, guide users to Garanti BBVA branch locations, and provide detailed information about products and services, including loans, accounts, and other financial solutions.
GIA remains accessible across all devices – smartphones, tablets, and desktops – in Romanian and English. Customers can interact with GIA directly on the Garanti BBVA website or via the homepage chat window. Meet GIA from Garanti BBVA on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
The bank Garanti BBVA is part of the Garanti BBVA Romania Group, along with Garanti BBVA Leasing, and Garanti BBVA Fleet Management, which complement the bank’s offering with specific leasing products and fleet management services. In 2023, the bank celebrated 25 years of active presence in the Romanian banking system.
Garanti BBVA Romania is owned by Garanti BBVA, the second-largest private bank in Türkiye per consolidated asset size, having as majority shareholder, the Spanish financial group Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria (BBVA).
Banking 4.0 – „how was the experience for you”
„So many people are coming here to Bucharest, people that I see and interact on linkedin and now I get the change to meet them in person. It was like being to the Football World Cup but this was the World Cup on linkedin in payments and open banking.”
Many more interesting quotes in the video below:
