Smarter, faster … riskier? Bringing AI into banking

In the latest episode of This is Deutsche Bank, Marcus Chromik, Chief Risk Officer and Management Board Member, joins host Michael Steen to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the risk function and what this means for our people and our clients.

Why does AI represent such a profound shift for risk management?

AI marks the first time risk teams can efficiently process both vast amounts of data and unstructured information, such as text contained in financial reports or client documentation. This unlocks new analytical possibilities far beyond traditional models. Combined with advances in cloud computing and systems capable of reasoning, AI can now support decision‑making in a way that was previously impossible. For a function built on analysing data, identifying patterns and understanding anomalies, this represents a structural change in the way work gets done.

How do we manage the risks that AI itself creates?

AI also empowers criminals, making fraud and cyberattacks more sophisticated. Banks must therefore use AI defensively - to detect anomalies, identify AI‑generated documents and respond faster to emerging threats. 

Equally important is ensuring human oversight. Teams must actively check outputs, apply controls and learn where models may fail. This “human in the loop” approach is crucial while the technology evolves.

How is Deutsche Bank already using AI in the risk function?

The bank has invested heavily in an AI‑ready infrastructure. Marcus Chromik shares details about how AI is being used within the credit process.

Credit officers review, validate and challenge the AI‑generated material, allowing them to focus their time on higher‑value judgement and analysis. The result is a faster, more consistent process that ultimately benefits clients through quicker decisions.

What does AI mean for future talent?

Chromik is very clear about one point: AI is not seen as a substitute for human roles. New joiners will need digital fluency, but he emphasises that the most important skills remain timeless: critical thinking, communication, the ability to connect disparate information and the confidence to challenge decisions.