AI is emerging as a more trusted source of financial advice than traditional banks among digitally engaged Malaysian investors, while strong enthusiasm for investing masks gaps in basic financial resilience, according to a new survey.
The Versa Financial Insights – The State of Financial Confidence in Malaysia 2026 report, based on responses from 3,506 active users, found that 17% of respondents trust AI for financial guidance, making it the second most trusted source after professional financial advisers at 32%.
This puts AI well ahead of traditional banks at 4% and peer networks at 3%.
The shift is evident across all age groups, including respondents aged 55 and above. More than half, or 55%, said they interact with AI tools daily, while 75% believe AI will directly improve their financial future.
However, the growing confidence in investing does not necessarily translate into financial security.
The survey found that 70% of respondents would invest a windfall rather than use it to clear debt or build an emergency fund, while 57% would invest a salary that was twice their usual income.
At the same time, 37% said they would be unable to cover three months of basic living expenses if their income stopped tomorrow.
The vulnerability is more pronounced among Gen Z respondents aged 18 to 29 and lower-income groups, with 48% lacking a basic three-month financial cushion despite 71% saying they save consistently.
Teoh Wei Xiang, CEO and Co-Founder of Versa, said, “Investing has become the default reflex for this generation, but ambition without a safety cushion leaves people vulnerable. As everyday investors are looking for smarter guidance, our mission is to help them build real financial resilience, balancing growth with the peace of mind they need for the future.”
Meanwhile, rising essential costs are also influencing major financial decisions, particularly among younger Malaysians.
The survey found that 43% of working adults aged 25 to 34 continue to live with their parents, with high property prices cited as a key factor. Despite this, homeownership remains an aspiration, with as many as 90% of non-homeowners still intending to purchase a property eventually.
Financial pressures are also spilling into personal relationships, with 18% of respondents admitting to hiding purchases from their partners.
