AI investing survey 2026: 75% of investors use AI

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has transitioned from a niche tool to a widely accepted resource for individual investors. A survey conducted by SoFi in 2026, which included 1,000 adults from the United States, reveals the extensive use of AI in the investment landscape.

The findings indicate that 75% of investors rely on AI for their investment inquiries. Among those utilizing AI, a substantial 84% reported using these tools on a weekly basis, and 86% acknowledged that they have made investment decisions based on insights generated by AI. This data underscores that AI is not just a passive information source; rather, it actively influences investor behavior.

The survey provides a comprehensive view of how investors are engaging with AI tools, their levels of trust in AI-generated information, and the factors that influence the adoption of these technologies. The insights gathered point towards a significant potential for AI to transform contemporary investing practices.

According to the survey, 84% of investors utilize AI tools at least once a week, with a detailed breakdown showing that 33% use AI daily, 41% several times a week, and 10% once a week. This frequency suggests that using AI tools has become a regular part of the investment routine, comparable to checking market news or portfolio performance rather than sporadic research.

AI tools are defined as platforms that employ advanced machine learning techniques, often utilizing large language models (LLMs) to analyze and summarize vast amounts of data. The frequency of AI usage varies among different demographic groups; younger investors aged 18 to 34 tend to use AI more frequently compared to older investors.

When it comes to the specific AI tools favored by investors, ChatGPT stands out as the most popular choice, with 53% of respondents indicating they use it. Google Gemini follows with 28%, and other tools like Perplexity and Claude have smaller, yet notable, user bases. Many investors also leverage AI tools integrated into brokerage platforms, reflecting the growing incorporation of AI within financial services.

One of the most notable aspects of the survey is the significant number of investors who act on AI-generated information. Nearly 80% of AI users reported seeking specific investment recommendations, and an impressive 86% stated they had made decisions based on AI guidance. Actions taken based on AI insights include initiating investments, reallocating portfolio assets, and even opting against trades.

Despite the high level of engagement with AI, only about 26% of investors express a strong trust in AI-generated financial information. This indicates that while investors are increasingly using AI, they remain cautious and often cross-verify AI insights with other information sources before making decisions.

The survey also highlights the various ways investors are employing AI in their investment strategies. Over 47% of AI users utilize the technology to compare investment options, with a similar number using it to research stocks or companies. This illustrates AI's capability as a research assistant that can condense large volumes of information.

Risk assessment is another important application, with 45% of users relying on AI to evaluate investment risk and volatility. This suggests that investors are not only looking for opportunities but are also using AI for downside analysis. Furthermore, 44% of respondents use AI tools to learn investment terms, while 43% benefit from AI in understanding basic investment concepts, highlighting its educational potential.

Emotional and behavioral factors also contribute to the preference for AI over traditional sources of financial advice. The survey found that nearly half of AI users (48%) prefer AI due to discomfort with asking others financial questions. This indicates a significant driver for AI adoption: it provides a judgment-free environment for individuals seeking financial information.

Investing can often be intimidating, particularly for novices. Asking basic questions in conventional settings, such as with financial advisors or peers, can feel daunting. AI thus offers a private and neutral space for inquiries, potentially democratizing access to financial knowledge and empowering hesitant investors.

Trust in AI-generated financial advice is present but measured. While 80% of surveyed investors express at least some trust in AI, only 26% trust it significantly. This moderate level of trust reflects both the potential and perceived limitations of current AI technologies. Most respondents adopt a "trust but verify" mindset, with 74% of AI users confirming that they routinely verify AI-generated investment information against other sources prior to acting on it.