As for investor appetite for AI and machine learning processes, the survey found investors use this technology as a risk management tool first and foremost, followed by using it to support the investment process and manager selection respectively. Still, 26 per cent or respondents said they did not use AI and machine learning and had no plans to use it in the future.

Investors mostly incorporate technology into risk management via third-party applications like Aladdin as opposed to developing their own in-house tools. Examples include Oregon Public Employees Pension Fund recently adding Aladdin; Japan’s GPIF hiring Sony to explore use of AI in due diligence and investment management, and Canadian pension plan AIMCo and AI firm AltaML Inc. entering a joint venture to create AlphaLayer, an AI-based tool for investment decision-making and risk management. Research revealed that communications and process automation are increasingly optimised using technology, yet for many plans, attribution and analytics are still in development stages. Smaller plans are more likely face issues with under-resourcing As technology increasingly permeates firm-wide initiatives, 33 per cent of investors surveyed said they are adding new hires and dedicated team members to integrate technology. Most respondents (29 per cent) have investment teams of between 5-10 only.