Miwa Someya, Senior Sales Executive Japan, SmartStream
On 18th October, I had the opportunity to attend the Pan-Asia Securities IT Expo 2024, hosted by Mizuho Securities in Hong Kong. Having recently joined SmartStream as a Senior Sales Executive for Japan, this event was a perfect occasion to network with one of our strategic clients in the region and globally. It offered fresh insights into their innovative strategies and how artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming pivotal in driving operational efficiency and growth. The event also served as a platform for us to present and discuss SmartStream’s latest AI-powered solutions, highlighting our commitment to advancing the industry’s technological capabilities.
AI is gaining momentum globally, and Japan is no exception. Historically, the financial sector in Japan has approached large-scale digital transformations with caution. However, the landscape is evolving, especially within capital markets and banking. Japanese financial institutions are starting to explore how AI can address critical needs such as operational efficiency, enhanced decision-making, and improved customer experiences. AI is particularly valuable in analysing large datasets, automating tasks, and delivering customised solutions to clients. This is essential for capital markets, where fast, data-driven decisions are crucial in a highly competitive environment.
One of the central themes of the day was the importance of responsible AI. As more organisations integrate AI into their operations, ensuring transparency and trust becomes increasingly important. Japan’s financial industry, known for its strong regulatory frameworks, is keen to adopt AI technologies that align with global standards, such as ISO42001, while maintaining operational integrity. This alignment would facilitate compliance with both global and regional AI regulations, which I believe, would help to address any lingering scepticism towards AI adoption among Japanese financial institutions.
During the event, SmartStream’s Senior Business Solutions Consultant for APAC, Rohith Rajamony, contributed to a fireside chat on AI adoption in financial services. His insights on how AI can optimise decision-making processes and boost operational efficiency resonated with many of the attendees. Rohith also highlighted how AI can automate complex tasks, such as data correlation, enrichment, and exception management—areas where SmartStream has developed significant expertise.
As AI adoption continues to grow within Japan’s capital markets, SmartStream remains committed to supporting our clients on this transformative journey. The Pan-Asia Securities IT Expo 2024 provided a fantastic platform to highlight our advancements, and gain insights into the primary concerns that our customers have regarding AI. I look forward to working closely with our clients to implement AI-powered solutions that unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.
