As artificial intelligence (AI) moves from novelty to necessity, the private wealth management industry is on the cusp of a revolution. Alex Kearns, Founder and CEO of DataDasher, is urging advisers to rethink their operating models and adopt vertical AI solutions. In an interview with Hubbis ahead of the Independent Wealth Management Forum – Dubai 2026, Kearns outlined how DataDasher is helping advisers navigate client expectations, rising data complexity, and the proliferation of generic AI tools by offering industry-specific intelligence layered on top of enterprise-grade infrastructure.
## The Shift from Horizontal to Vertical AI
Kearns cautions against relying solely on general-purpose tools like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, emphasizing the superior performance and compliance of verticalised platforms tailored to wealth management. “Generic tools don’t understand regulatory requirements or industry nuance,” he notes. “They also don’t connect meaningfully to the systems you already use.” In contrast, DataDasher’s platform operates as a context-aware AI assistant that integrates directly into an adviser’s daily ecosystem, including meeting platforms, emails, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and portfolio systems.
## Unlocking Operational Efficiency with AI-Driven Automation
DataDasher’s core promise is time savings, with regular estimates of 10 to 15 hours per week saved per adviser through AI-driven automation of meeting summaries, email drafting, pre-meeting preparation, and CRM follow-ups. “When the AI already understands your client relationships, your workflows, and your terminology,” Kearns explains, “you get outputs that are not just faster, but better.” The productivity gain is not just about speed, but quality, making it an essential tool for advisers looking to enhance their client engagement and service.
## Dispelling Misconceptions and Avoiding Pitfalls
One common mistake Kearns observes is over-reliance on bundled AI tools. “People say, ‘We use Microsoft, so Copilot is our AI strategy,’” he says. “But Copilot is useful for Microsoft products, it doesn’t understand adviser workflows or integrate with portfolio systems.” Kearns argues for a more modular, flexible approach, where different tools serve different needs. He also warns against the ‘black box’ perception of AI, emphasizing the importance of human review and oversight.
## The Future of Wealth Management: Dubai 2026
The pace of AI adoption in wealth management is accelerating, particularly in mature markets like the United States. However, Kearns sees significant momentum building elsewhere too, including the Middle East. “With regulators demanding more transparency and clients expecting real-time, personalized service, the pressure is on,” he says. “Firms that adopt the right tools will pull ahead. Those that don’t risk falling behind.” As the UAE continues to assert itself as a global wealth management centre, the rise of independent wealth managers, external asset managers, and multi-family offices is redefining advisory excellence. The Hubbis Independent Wealth Management Forum – Dubai 2026 provides a vital platform for these professionals to examine the tools, strategies, and partnerships needed to compete in a more complex, technology-driven landscape.
The Hubbis Independent Wealth Management Forum – Dubai 2026 will take place on Wednesday 11th February, 2026, from 9.00am to 1.00pm at Shangri-La Dubai. Join us for a deep dive into the future of independent wealth advice in the Middle East and beyond. CLICK HERE to view the event homepage.
