SmartStream’s CEO Discusses AI Innovations at Sibos 2025

At the Sibos 2025 conference in Frankfurt, Akber Jaffer, CEO of SmartStream, engaged with FinextraTV to discuss the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) within the financial services industry. Jaffer emphasized the ongoing conversations about AI innovations and the company’s strategic rebranding efforts aimed at becoming more data-centric. He highlighted the pressing need for institutions to enhance their use of federated data to remain competitive and relevant in an era defined by rapid technological advancement.

During the discussion, Jaffer pointed out that many organizations possess federated data, but significant improvements are necessary to maximize its potential. He stressed the importance of data hygiene as a critical component for institutions aiming to keep pace with innovation demands. “Our industry is on the brink of significant progression,” Jaffer noted, underscoring that the right tools and dedication are essential for realizing existing value sources in a modern context.

Focus on Data Hygiene

The conversation highlighted that data hygiene is not merely a technical requirement but a strategic imperative. Jaffer explained that clean, well-organized data is foundational for leveraging AI effectively. In a world where decision-making processes are increasingly driven by data analytics, the quality of that data can significantly influence outcomes.

Jaffer’s insights resonate with broader industry trends. Many financial institutions are recognizing that simply having access to large volumes of data is insufficient. The focus must shift towards ensuring that this data is accurate, consistent, and relevant. Failure to address these issues can hinder innovation and limit the ability to extract actionable insights.

Industry Readiness for Change

Jaffer painted an optimistic picture of an industry poised for advancement. He noted that financial institutions are equipped with the necessary tools to succeed, provided they commit to a rigorous approach to data management. The potential for AI to transform operations and enhance customer experiences is immense, but it hinges on the foundational aspects of data quality.

As organizations embark on this journey, Jaffer called for a collective effort towards improving data hygiene. He believes that by prioritizing this aspect, institutions will not only meet the current demands of innovation but also set the stage for future growth.

The dialogue at Sibos 2025 reflects a critical moment for the financial services sector. With leaders like Jaffer advocating for a data-centric approach, there is a renewed focus on the importance of harnessing federated data effectively. The insights shared during this event could serve as a catalyst for change, guiding institutions towards a more innovative and data-driven future.