## Young People and AI: A Growing Relationship A recent survey conducted in the UK by Cleo AI highlights how young adults are exploring the use of artificial intelligence to get support in managing their finances. The study, which involved 5,000 people aged between 28 and 40, reveals that many save less than they would like and are therefore open to innovative AI-based solutions. In particular, 20% describe themselves as curious and 12% as excited about the idea of using AI to manage their money. ## Challenges and Opportunities Despite the interest, confidence in one's ability to manage finances remains low. 37% of respondents admit to having difficulty with self-discipline and often giving in to impulse purchases, undermining their savings goals. 80% believe they can improve their financial knowledge. Participants between 28 and 34 years old are more satisfied with their savings and manage to save about 33% more than the 35-40 age group. This suggests that financial difficulties tend to increase with age, without adequate support. ## AI as a Support Tool AI is seen as a possible ally to regain control of finances. Many feel comfortable using AI for routine financial tasks: 64% would trust receiving advice on disposable income, 54% would allow AI to move money to avoid overdrafts, and 52% to manage bill payments. Barney Hussey-Yeo, CEO of Cleo, emphasizes how structural economic pressures, such as the rising cost of living and wage stagnation, make it difficult for many to manage money. In this context, AI tools can offer concrete help, working even with limited funds. ## Trust and Adoption The younger ones (28-34 years old) show greater confidence in using AI-based financial tools, with a confidence level 8% higher than the 35-40 age group. However, trust remains an obstacle: 23% prefer to start with limited use of the technology and need concrete evidence of its value before committing further. ## Regional Disparities The research also highlights significant regional disparities in the UK. Average monthly savings in the south of the country are 26% higher than in the north. Londoners save 33% more than the national average and about £250 more per month than those living in Norwich. London, Brighton and Edinburgh record the highest average monthly savings, while Newcastle and Cardiff are at the bottom of the ranking. ## Implications for the Fintech Sector The results indicate a strong demand for financial support, especially in stressful situations. Poor self-discipline (37%) and low confidence in one's financial knowledge (80%) suggest that execution is a crucial problem. Trust is a determining factor: almost a quarter of users want incremental proof before fully committing. This suggests a modular approach in product development and specific implementations, rather than full automation from the outset. Adoption will be driven by demonstrated utility, not brand positioning. The differences between age groups (28-40) highlight that fintech companies should consider the different needs of consumers. For older millennials, tools that address cumulative obligations (housing, dependents, legacy debt, bills) may be more relevant. Regional disparities in savings suggest that nationally uniform products may not be suitable for everyone. Prices, thresholds, and notifications may require regional adaptation to be realistic outside the high-income urban centers of the south of the UK.