A Real Economy publication

Financial services industry outlook

Summer 2023

Aug 11, 2023

Financial services outlook key takeaways

The traditional banking sector has taken continuous hits to its liquidity metrics this year.

The traditional banking sector has taken continuous hits to its liquidity metrics this year.

Generative AI can optimize investment portfolios by identifying patterns in data.

Generative AI can optimize investment portfolios by identifying patterns in data.

Large insurers’ withdrawal from areas prone to wildfires may force a rethinking of policies.

Large insurers’ withdrawal from areas prone to wildfires may force a rethinking of policies.

Financial services trend #1: Lending and private credit

Outlook
Amid banking disruption, everyone wants a piece of lending
Amid banking disruption, private credit could play a significant role in lending.

Amid interest rate hikes, the Federal Reserve's balance sheet reduction and multiple bank runs, financial institutions are facing a liquidity crunch. Further contributing to that crunch are products with more attractive yields, such as money markets, that have triggered an acceleration in the flight of deposits.

Financial institutions' dominance in lending is weakening, and private credit is emerging as a significant player, offering diverse lending options.

Financial services trend #2: Artificial intelligence improving operational efficiency

Asset managers are facing a challenging macroeconomic environment due to ongoing market volatility in 2023, resulting in limited exit opportunities and fundraising difficulties. To navigate this landscape, asset managers are focusing on operational efficiency and enhancing their investment portfolios. Leveraging generative AI is seen as crucial for thriving in this environment.

Outlook
Asset managers can streamline operations and unleash productivity with AI
Asset managers continue to face an unfavorable macroeconomic environment due to market volatility persisting through the first half of 2023.

Financial services trend #3: Severe weather impact on insurance companies

Outlook
California wildfires and Atlantic hurricanes: Insurers grapple with rising risk
As severe weather affects insurance companies, preventive measures and catastrophe modeling are key.

The insurance industry is grappling with worsening wildfire and hurricane risks. As climate change intensifies, insurance companies across the country are increasing rates, reducing coverage or withdrawing entirely from regions prone to wildfires and other natural disasters.

For the 2023 hurricane season, insurers should be prepared for increased claims due to El Nino's impact. Despite forecasts, proactive disaster preparedness remains crucial.

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