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Artificial Intelligence (AI) has now found its place in many IR departments. The EY-DIRK 2024 study shows that AI can support investor relations departments in everything from translations to complex data analysis. However, the use of AI brings not only opportunities but also challenges. Let’s take a look at the key insights.

Where AI Truly Shines in IR

From translations and content creation to market trend analysis, two-thirds of surveyed companies are already using AI tools. Popular applications include DeepL and ChatGPT. While smaller companies often leverage AI to cut costs, larger firms are utilizing chatbots to automate standard inquiries. This saves time and allows teams to focus on more strategically important tasks.

And time is a major factor: 83% of respondents cite time savings as the biggest advantage. Efficiency (63%) and speed (45%) also make AI a valuable helper in the daily IR workflow. However, differences exist depending on company size – smaller firms often benefit more from cost savings, while larger organizations harness AI’s data power.

 

Challenges and Risks: A Focus on Data Privacy

Despite its potential, AI implementation is not without risks. Confidentiality (68%) and the sensitivity of information (61%) are the top concerns for IR officers. The difficulty in (50%) and security concerns (52%) are also seen as significant challenges. Establishing clear internal guidelines could help mitigate these issues – however, more than half of the surveyed companies currently lack such policies.

 

How IR Officers Can Get the Most Out of AI

The study provides IR professionals with several clear action points:

1. Use AI strategically: Identify the right areas for implementation. Whether for translations, automating standard processes, or data analysis – AI should be applied where it truly adds value.
2. Develop internal guidelines: Data protection, compliance, and quality standards should be clearly defined. Surprisingly, over half of the companies still have room for improvement in this area.
3. Question rather than blindly trust: AI is a copilot, not an autopilot. Results must be reviewed and assessed before being communicated externally.
4. Promote continuing education: AI is a tool, not a replacement for human expertise. Invest in team competencies in order to leverage the technology in a meaningful manner.

Why Humans and Machines Make a Dream Team

So, what remains for IR officers in an increasingly AI-driven world? A lot – but in a different way. Routine tasks can be automated, freeing up time for strategic conversations with investors or the C-suite. At the same time, relationship management – something no machine in the world can replace – remains a core responsibility of IR.

The good news: With the right balance between technology and human touch, AI is not a job killer but an enabler. It not only makes IR work more efficient but also opens up new possibilities to engage investors more effectively.

Conclusion: The Future is Hybrid

AI is here to stay and will continue to disrupt the IR world. Those who recognize the opportunities now while managing the risks can gain a true competitive advantage. The key lies in a smart collaboration between humans and machines – because in the end, the human factor remains irreplaceable.

Source : EY-DIRK-Studie „Künstliche Intelligenz in der Finanzkommunikation“, 2024