Innovations powered by artificial intelligence (AI) can help bridge financial gaps, democratize access to services, and create opportunities for underserved communities. This was the key message highlighted by GCash, the Philippines’ foremost finance app and largest cashless ecosystem, during the UK-Southeast Asia Tech Week, a two-day summit recently organized by the British Embassy in Manila.
The event also featured twelve prominent global companies operating in the region sharing their financial technology (fintech) expertise. They were focused on harnessing the transformative power of AI to foster economic growth and sustainability across the Southeast.
The summit brought together top global firms spanning engineering, health technology, management consulting, information technology, and business process outsourcing (BPO). GCash joined the discussions to emphasize how AI-driven fintech innovations are transforming lives and creating new opportunities for underserved communities through access to fintech services.
At the fireside chat panel titled ‘AI for Good: Transforming Industries and Enabling Sustainable Growth’, GCash chief data officer Sara Venturina shared the stage with industry leaders that included Arup Director Sankar Villupuram, TPP director of research and analytics Chris Bates, IBPAP president and CEO Jack Madrid, and BCG managing director and partner Julian Cua. Together, they unpacked the impact of AI in reshaping industries and fostering sustainable growth.
Venturina shared insights into how AI has been instrumental in expanding financial inclusion in the Philippines. With over 94 million users nationwide, GCash has leveraged advanced AI technologies to address the unique challenges faced by underbanked and underserved populations. Through AI-powered analytics, GCash can better understand user behavior, enabling the platform to tailor its financial services to meet the needs of diverse communities, including those with limited access to traditional banking systems.
By integrating AI into its operations, GCash has streamlined processes like credit scoring for users without formal credit histories, allowing more Filipinos to access loans and other financial products. AI also enables personalized recommendations, guiding users toward tools and services that align with their financial goals, such as budgeting assistance, savings plans, and investment opportunities, allowing users to build more educated financial habits.
Additionally, Venturina highlighted how AI enhances the platform’s security measures, particularly in fraud detection and prevention. By analyzing vast amounts of transactional data in real time, AI helps protect users from cyber threats, fostering trust and confidence among those new to digital financial platforms.
“At GCash, we are proactive in using AI to achieve financial inclusion for all Filipinos and ensure they actively participate in the country’s financial progress,” Venturina shared. She emphasized that these technologies not only broaden access to essential financial services but also empower individuals and families to build a more secure and stable financial future.
As a flagship event showcasing advancements in AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies, the UK-Southeast Asia Tech Week affirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Southeast Asia’s digital transformation. GCash’s participation highlighted its dedication to aligning with global best practices and fostering cross-border collaborations in fintech innovation.
Through its involvement in this summit, GCash continues to position itself as a champion of responsible and inclusive AI-driven financial solutions, contributing to the development of a more connected and equitable digital economy.