HFS Research and EY: The evolving landscape of commercial banking

This conversation between HFS and EY explores the digital acceleration of commercial banking, the impact of AI, and how EY supports banks in modernizing legacy systems, navigating geopolitical uncertainty, and building scalable, future-ready platforms.

You can listen above or watch this HFS Videocast here:

Key discussion points included:

• The discussion highlighted why commercial banking has historically lagged behind retail in digital transformation—and how that’s rapidly changing due to evolving customer expectations and the demand for streamlined, data-driven treasury experiences.
• EY assists commercial banks in their modernization efforts by integrating digital strategy, UX redesign, and core system upgrades with deep risk and regulatory expertise.
• The conversation also examined how geopolitical volatility is increasing the need for strategic banking support, with commercial banks uniquely positioned to guide clients through uncertain times.
• AI emerged as a central theme—viewed as transformational but still in its early stages—with EY advising clients to focus on connected, high-impact use cases rather than isolated pilot initiatives.
• The session concluded with a forward-looking perspective on embedded finance, digital assets, and the evolving role of commercial banks as key enablers of client growth and agility.

Commercial banks must accelerate their digital and AI transformation efforts—starting with pragmatic, high-value use cases—while leveraging their unique position to support clients through economic and geopolitical uncertainty. Rather than waiting for perfect data or systems, banks should prioritize building scalable platforms that integrate automation, AI, and user-centric design. Partnering with firms like EY can help bridge the gap between strategy, technology, and compliance to stay competitive and future ready.

Learn more about this Horizons report to see how service providers help commercial banks across the globe embrace innovation and realize value across three distinct Horizons here.

You can also listen on:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify