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Framework

AI Adoption Strategies in Finance, Banking and Pensions

A six-mode framework, from passive ghost AI to commercialised AI products, for placing your organisation honestly on the adoption spectrum.

Most financial institutions are running AI in several modes at once, often without realising it. This framework separates the six and pairs each with its characteristic examples, risks and opportunities, so the conversation can move from "are we doing AI?" to "which modes are we deliberately investing in, and which are happening to us?".

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The six modes

  1. 01

    Ghost AI

    Passive

    AI operating invisibly inside everyday tools, such as email suggestions and search algorithms.

  2. 02

    Shadow AI

    Passive

    Unofficial AI tools used by employees without organisational oversight, creating compliance and data risks.

  3. 03

    Embedded AI

    Active

    AI integrated into business applications as a feature, such as CRM lead scoring and algorithmic trading.

  4. 04

    Customised AI

    Proactive

    AI solutions tailored to specific organisational needs, offering precise fit but requiring significant investment.

  5. 05

    Proprietary AI

    Proactive

    Internally developed AI systems built from scratch for unique competitive advantage and full strategic control.

  6. 06

    Commercialised AI

    Proactive

    AI products and services developed for external sale, creating new revenue streams and market influence.

The full matrix lays out all six modes side by side on a single page, with description, examples, implications, risks and opportunities for each. Useful as a strategy artefact in board, architecture and risk conversations.

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Why Strawpath

A foot in the future

Active advisors and investors in the fintechs and infrastructure startups reshaping the technology landscape. We see what's coming, not just what's already on the analyst grid.