Artificial intelligence has quickly become the go-to adviser for many Kenyans seeking financial guidance. From ChatGPT to Google’s Gemini, more people are typing in questions about investments, budgeting, and business plans — and trusting the answers without a second thought.

On the surface, it looks revolutionary. In just seconds, an AI tool can break down complex financial terms, compare risks, and even draft a business plan. For many, this feels like freedom from expensive financial advisors who often charge thousands for a single session.

But beneath the convenience lies a growing danger: over-reliance on machines that cannot truly understand the Kenyan market or your personal financial reality.

Take the example of investors exploring real estate investment trusts (Reits). AI might explain the basics and even quote figures that sound accurate. Yet, it is only repeating what already exists online — and online information is not always up to date, complete, or free of bias. What happens if you act on outdated numbers? Or if the algorithm leaves out critical risks because no one fed it the right data?

Experts warn that the biggest threat is not that AI gives wrong answers all the time — but that it gives convincing answers that feel right, even when they are incomplete or misleading. The risk is that Kenyans, desperate for financial shortcuts, will accept machine responses as gospel truth.

Mary Mwangi, a financial advisor, puts it bluntly: “If you rely on AI blindly, you are essentially relying on the opinions and half-truths of strangers online. That is dangerous.”

Yes, AI can speed up research, simplify jargon, and save time. But it cannot provide context, tailor strategies to your unique needs, or offer accountability when things go wrong. If you pour your life savings into an AI-suggested venture and it collapses, the chatbot won’t be there to pick up the pieces.

The promise of AI is exciting, but Kenyans must tread carefully. Use it to learn, not to decide. Double-check with real professionals, updated reports, and verified company documents. Don’t let flashy algorithms replace sound judgment.

Because while AI can reduce bureaucracy, only a human advisor can understand your dreams, your fears, and the stakes of your financial journey.

In short: don’t follow the machine blindly — your money, and your future, deserve more than that.