What is Agent?
An agent is an AI system designed to perform specific tasks autonomously on behalf of a user. Unlike simple chatbots that respond to queries, agents can take actions, make decisions within defined parameters and complete multi-step workflows without constant human intervention. In financial services, agents might handle tasks such as monitoring client conversations for compliance risks, generating suitability reports or scheduling follow-up meetings based on conversation outcomes. Agents operate within guardrails set by their developers to ensure they act predictably and safely.
Agent in financial services
In financial services, agents are used for well-defined tasks where the rules are clear and every action can be recorded — such as reviewing conversations against a compliance framework or drafting documentation for an adviser to check. Because firms remain accountable for the outcome, agents are normally deployed with human review and a full audit trail.