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AI Is Driving Infrastructure Spending as a Priority in Financial Services in 2026

Publisher IDC
Published Mar 19, 2026
Length 5 Pages
SKU # IDC21031761

Description

This IDC Perspective describes the thinking of financial institutions that have made their intentions clear about the need for infrastructure improvements, and the inference IDC Financial Insights is making about AI as the main driver behind these decisions. Over three years have passed since GenAI made the news, and while the financial services industry struggled to create real benefits from generative AI, agentic AI and AI agents have further complicated the picture, and the industry, generally, seems to be unprepared to leverage these new technologies fully. But recent surveys of the industry by IDC point to a willingness (even a need) to invest in overcoming the challenges of inadequate infrastructure preparedness in 2026 and beyond."The financial services industry is in 'rebuild' mode in preparation for the AI-fueled business," said Jerry Silva, vice president, IDC Financial Insights. "IT investments in infrastructure modernization are outpacing investments in areas like customer experience, even though there isn't always a short-term lift in revenue."

Table of Contents

5 Pages

Executive Snapshot

Key takeaways

Recommended actions

Situation Overview

Drivers of increased investments for 2026

What won't be cut in 2026 IT investments?

So, where is the money going (aka follow the money)?

Advice for the Technology Buyer

Learn More

Related research

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