DBS Group Holdings has announced plans to reduce its contract and temporary workforce by approximately 4,000 over the next three years as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to replace traditional job functions. Outgoing CEO Piyush Gupta confirmed that the reduction will happen through natural attrition, meaning roles will not be renewed once contracts expire.
A DBS spokesperson emphasized that the workforce reduction would not affect permanent employees and is part of the bank’s ongoing digital transformation strategy. However, details on which specific roles will be impacted or the exact number of affected Singapore-based employees were not disclosed.
DBS currently employs between 8,000 and 9,000 contract and temporary staff, contributing to its total workforce of around 41,000 employees. As AI and automation take on more tasks, banks worldwide are adapting by restructuring their workforce. The financial sector has been rapidly integrating AI into operations, particularly in customer service, fraud detection, and administrative functions, reducing the reliance on human workers.
A recent Bloomberg Intelligence report estimates that global banks may cut up to 200,000 jobs within the next three to five years due to AI adoption. Chief information and technology officers surveyed in the report predict an average workforce reduction of 3%. These job losses stem from AI’s ability to handle repetitive tasks, process large datasets, and streamline banking operations with increased efficiency.
While automation raises concerns about job security, some financial institutions argue that AI is transforming roles rather than eliminating them. JPMorgan Chase’s AI head, Teresa Heitsenrether, previously stated that the bank’s use of AI has primarily been to augment jobs rather than replace employees. Many companies are now focusing on retraining workers to handle higher-value tasks instead of performing routine administrative duties.
DBS’ leadership transition will see Ms. Tan Su Shan succeed Mr. Gupta as CEO on March 28. Under her leadership, DBS is expected to continue its push towards AI-driven efficiency while balancing job retention strategies.
AI’s impact on the banking industry is becoming increasingly evident, with financial institutions worldwide investing heavily in automation. While DBS has assured that its permanent workforce remains secure, the growing use of AI signals an evolving job landscape where digital skills will become more critical.
As banks continue embracing AI, job seekers and employees in the financial sector may need to adapt by upskilling and acquiring expertise in data analysis, machine learning, and AI-related processes. The shift in workforce dynamics underscores a broader trend in which technology is reshaping industries at an accelerating pace.
DBS remains at the forefront of digital banking innovation, integrating AI-powered solutions to enhance customer experience, improve fraud detection, and optimize internal operations. The bank’s decision to phase out contract and temporary roles aligns with its long-term vision of becoming a tech-driven financial institution.
While job cuts due to AI adoption can be concerning, they also present opportunities for employees to develop new skills and transition into more specialized roles. The challenge for DBS and other banks will be finding a balance between technological advancements and workforce sustainability.
As AI continues to evolve, the banking industry is expected to undergo further changes, with automation becoming a key component of operations. DBS’ move to reduce its temporary workforce highlights a growing trend where financial institutions must navigate the complexities of digital transformation while ensuring job security and career progression for their employees.
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