AI for Finance: How Data and Innovation Are Transforming Investment, Security and Trust
The John McCarthy AI Summer School on Sept 18-19 in Killorglin focuses on AI’s role in finance, from fraud detection to portfolio optimization. Industry leaders and experts will share insights on emerging AI technologies in finance.
John McCarthy AI Summer School Spotlights AI in Finance
The annual John McCarthy AI Summer School will take place on September 18 and 19 at the RDI Hub in Killorglin. This year, the event focuses on AI for Finance, highlighting how artificial intelligence is changing finance—from institutional investing to cybersecurity and fraud detection.
As finance shifts through data and digital innovation, this two-day hybrid event will examine how Agentic AI, blockchain, and advanced analytics are transforming areas such as fraud detection and portfolio optimisation. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how these technologies increase transparency, trust, and strategic intelligence across the financial ecosystem.
Featured Speakers and Special Guest
The event features a strong lineup of industry leaders and innovators, including:
- Veronica Breen, CEO, Vesta Insights
- Brian Walsh, CEO, Reitigh
- Vasant Dhar, NYU Stern and Center for Data Science
- Michael Dowling, Founder, Narrative Banking
- David Kearney, CEO, Numra
- Louise McCormack, PhD Candidate in Trustworthy AI Evaluation
- Luca Marschesotti, Founder, Gemmo.ai
- Professor Ciara Heavin, UCC
- Jane Cummings, CTO, Outmin.io
The special guest speaker is Dr. David L Shrier, Managing Director at Visionary Future, CEO of Phorum.AI, and Professor of Practice at Imperial College London.
Event Launch and Partners
The event will be launched by Niamh Smyth, Minister of State for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, with responsibility for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Transformation.
Co-hosted by a consortium including the RDI Hub, Microsoft Ireland, Munster Technological University, SFI ADAPT Centre, AI Ireland, Skillnet Innovation Exchange, and new partners Fexco and Tech Industry Alliance, the event promises a powerful gathering of AI and finance expertise.
Honouring John McCarthy's Legacy
The event is held at the RDI Hub, named to honour John McCarthy, a pioneer of artificial intelligence whose father came from Cromane. McCarthy was a Stanford computer scientist who helped found AI and created LISP, the programming language behind early AI systems.
The RDI Hub itself is a not-for-profit public-private partnership involving Fexco, Kerry County Council, and Munster Technological University. Located in Killorglin, it represents a €21 million investment led by Fexco, positioning Kerry as a connected hub for technology innovation, enterprise, and skills development.
Finance professionals interested in the practical applications of AI will find this event valuable for understanding emerging tools and strategies shaping the future of the sector.
For those looking to expand their AI skills relevant to finance, courses and resources are available at Complete AI Training.
