Understanding the role of ethical considerations in artificial intelligence adoption in the South African banking sector

Abstract

This study seeks to understand the role played by ethical considerations in Artificial Intelligence adoption within the banking industry in South Africa. The study assesses decision-making influenced by AI ethics, outlines challenges that confront the banking industry and suggests best practices for integrating ethical considerations into AI strategies. Based on a qualitative research design approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 banking professionals to gather information on adopting AI. The findings indicate that while AI adoption is of the essence regarding operational efficiency, it raises significant concerns about ethical challenges, such as algorithmic bias, data privacy, and transparency. It also highlights the critical role of ethics frameworks like Fairness, Accountability, and Transparency in considering such challenges. Recommendations included were based on developing AI governance structures, capacity-building enhancements, and creating ethical review boards to help reduce risks. It is also recommended that further studies be done to ensure the scope is further expanded into other industries and that ethical frameworks for AI are well described. Nevertheless, the study has its limitations, given the fact that it focused on the banking sector in South Africa, whereas the current regulatory environment may change at some point.