The French Financial Markets Authority has published a research note based on its savings and investment barometer examining how artificial intelligence is used in investment decisions by French adults. The study finds that AI is starting to enter investment practices but remains a minority tool used mainly for information rather than as a standalone decision maker. Eleven percent of French adults said they use AI to inform themselves before investing, compared with 42% who turn to a bank or financial adviser. Use is notably higher among younger people, with 19% of those under 35 using AI before investing versus 4% of those aged 55 and over. Among those who use AI, the main uses are to better understand financial products at 52% and to find information on investments at 51%. Exclusive reliance on AI remains rare. Among investors, only 3% said they use it without any other information source, while 53% combine it with their own research and 44% with information from a professional. Perceptions of professionals' use of AI are mixed. Fifty-four percent think it could provide more tailored advice and 52% expect better performance with lower fees, but 67% also see a risk of errors or poor decisions and 57% think it could make investments less transparent and harder to understand. The note says the French Financial Markets Authority will continue to track these developments through future editions of its barometer.
France Autorite des marches financiers2026-05-01
French Financial Markets Authority research finds AI use in investing remains limited and mainly supports other information sources
The French Financial Markets Authority has published a research note on artificial intelligence in investment decisions by French adults, finding that AI remains a minority tool used mainly for information rather than as a standalone decision maker. Eleven percent of adults use AI before investing, with higher use among those under 35, and most users combine AI with personal research or professional advice. Respondents see potential for more tailored, lower-cost advice but also highlight risks of errors and reduced transparency, and the authority will monitor these trends.