In the fast-paced world of Investor Relations (IR), professionals face mounting challenges, such as managing corporate access, sustainability reporting, and personalized investor marketing. However, amid the constraints of limited resources, introducing Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a “co-pilot” brings a promising solution. AI tools can significantly enhance productivity for resource-constrained IR teams and allow them to achieve best-in-class performance. According to James Tickner, global head of product for IR Intelligence at Nasdaq, AI is viewed as a valuable accelerator that complements human expertise, streamlining tasks and reducing time spent on routine activities.
AI as a co-pilot in IR
Tickner emphasizes that AI should be seen as a digital co-pilot, supporting IR professionals rather than replacing them. These tools work in conjunction with human oversight, combining the efficiency of AI with the insights and judgments of experienced IR experts. While AI has been met with some hesitancy due to regulatory concerns and the need for extensive human input, the IR community is becoming increasingly optimistic about its potential benefits.
The growing spotlight on AI in IR
AI has captured the attention of IR professionals at major conferences, including NIRI and DIRK. These events have explored the current applications of AI in IR and its future evolution. However, with the implementation of AI comes the responsibility to stay informed about relevant regulations. While the EU has already initiated AI Intelligence Act regulation, the US has provided non-binding practical guidelines through the AI Risk Management Framework and the Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights. Companies must take a proactive role in using AI responsibly and ensuring data privacy and security.
Challenges in AI adoption
Though AI holds great promise, there are challenges that companies and IR teams must address for its successful adoption. One key concern is trust in AI-generated information. Ensuring data accuracy and avoiding AI “hallucinating” or producing false facts is critical to maintaining credibility. Additionally, intellectual property (IP) and data privacy are significant considerations when using AI tools. Determining ownership of the generated content and safeguarding sensitive information must be thoroughly addressed to promote the adoption of AI as more than just a co-pilot.
AI, the future of intelligent intelligence
Presently, AI tools serve as co-pilots, assisting in drafting and summarizing tasks, but they have the potential to offer much more. Overcoming data privacy and ownership challenges will unlock AI’s true power for IR professionals. Future AI tools, finely tuned and expertly trained, will provide access to private data and subject matter expertise, offering a more comprehensive and indispensable solution for the IR community.
A low-risk introduction to AI
To harness the benefits of AI, IR professionals are encouraged to start with low-risk applications that feel comfortable and manageable. Experimenting with AI-generated first drafts, meeting follow-ups, or summarizing publicly available content allows teams to gauge the effectiveness of AI without significant risks. Importantly, if the results are unsatisfactory, there is no obligation to utilize the AI-generated content.
AI is emerging as a valuable co-pilot for Investor Relations professionals, enabling them to navigate the complex landscape of their roles with greater efficiency and effectiveness. As the IR community cautiously embraces the potential of AI, it becomes essential to strike a balance between leveraging AI’s capabilities and maintaining human expertise and oversight. By addressing challenges related to data privacy, accuracy, and IP considerations, AI tools of the future will transform into essential assets for the IR profession. As companies continue to explore AI’s potential, the future of intelligent intelligence in IR looks promising.
