Policy Statement - Use of Artificial Intelligence - January 2026

Summary

This is a policy statement in which the Guernsey Financial Services Commission sets out its supportive stance on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by financial services firms. It confirms that no new AI-specific rules or guidance are being introduced, and that AI adoption is expected to be managed within the Bailiwick's existing principles based regulatory framework.

• No prior approval needed: Because the regulatory regime is principles based, firms can adopt AI tools without seeking specific Commission approval or discussion beforehand.
• Existing framework applies: Firms should treat AI adoption like any other technical or strategic project, having regard to the Finance Sector Code of Corporate Governance (particularly accountability and risk management principles) and the Minimum Criteria for Licensing in the relevant regulatory laws.
• Ongoing compliance: Any new AI technology must still comply with the Bailiwick's laws, rules and codes in force at the time of adoption, including Handbook on Countering Financial Crime requirements relating to technology.
• No mandated standard: The Commission does not prescribe accreditation or certification to any particular AI standard, but suggests firms may find frameworks such as the NIST AI Risk Management Framework, ISO/IEC 42001, or NCSC Guidelines useful if uncertain how to implement AI.
• Flexibility mechanisms: Firms that feel existing rules impede AI trials can approach the Commission to discuss options, including the Innovation Sandbox, a pilot basis variation or waiver, or potential redrafting of an obsolete rule.

Overall, this is an informational policy statement rather than a binding rule change: it clarifies the Commission's supportive regulatory posture toward AI without imposing new obligations beyond existing laws, codes and licensing criteria.

Key obligations

• Firms must ensure any AI tools or technologies they adopt comply with the Bailiwick's laws, rules and codes in force at the time of adoption, including the Minimum Criteria for Licensing and relevant Handbook on Countering Financial Crime requirements.

Applies to

financial services firms, licensees regulated under the Bailiwick's regulatory laws