Second AI Discussion Forum on Governance and Responsible Innovation

On 19 February 2026, the Worshipful Company of Information Technologists hosted the second Artificial Intelligence Discussion Forum at the Information Technologists’ Hall in the City of London. Organized by the WCIT Financial Services Technology Panel, the session focused on AI Governance, Regulation, and Responsible AI, themes that have rapidly become board level priorities across the financial services sector.

Building on the momentum of the first forum in the three part series, the second edition brought together senior technology leaders, governance experts, and fintech stakeholders to examine how financial institutions can innovate responsibly while navigating evolving regulatory landscapes.

The forum welcomed Paul Ballard, Group Chief Technology Officer at Nationwide Building Society, who shared insights from the perspective of a major UK financial institution. He was joined by Pauline Norstrom, Founder and CEO of Anekanta®AI and Anekanta®Consulting, and Maria Luciana Axente, Founder and CEO of Responsible Intelligence. The discussion was expertly moderated by Vijay Mitra, ensuring a dynamic and focused exchange of views.

Opening remarks were delivered by Dr Indranil Nath, Chair of the WCIT Financial Services Technology Panel, who emphasized that the forum forms part of a broader, structured process aimed at equipping the sector with practical guidance on artificial intelligence. He highlighted that AI governance is no longer a theoretical concern but a strategic imperative that demands coordinated action at executive and board levels.

The session explored key issues including governance frameworks, regulatory compliance, accountability, liability, and the implications of the EU AI Act for financial services firms operating in or connected to European markets.

Speakers underscored the importance of embedding responsible AI principles into organizational culture, risk management systems, and technology development lifecycles.

For UK fintech SMEs in particular, the message was clear: innovation must move in lockstep with responsible governance. As regulatory scrutiny increases and public expectations around ethical AI grow, firms that proactively address compliance and transparency will be better positioned to scale sustainably and build long term trust.

Participants also reflected on lessons from Part 1 of the series, which focused on AI Adoption. The official briefing paper from that first session is now available for download, providing foundational insights into how financial institutions can approach AI implementation strategically.

The WCIT Financial Services Technology Panel has confirmed that a new briefing paper summarizing the 19 February discussion will be published shortly. It will capture practical takeaways on governance, compliance, liability considerations, and regulatory developments.

Looking ahead, attention is already turning to the third and final installment of the series. The 3rd Discussion Forum, focusing on AI in the Workplace and AI Literacy, is scheduled to take place on 12 May 2026. Further details will be announced in due course.

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape financial services, forums such as these play a critical role in bridging innovation with accountability. By fostering informed dialogue among industry leaders, regulators, and technology experts, WCIT continues to position itself at the forefront of responsible digital transformation in the UK financial sector.