Why context is the backbone of great AI experiences in wealth management
Charlotte Zahnleiter
15 Jan 2026
We all know that feeling when technology seems smart but doesn’t really get us. That’s the gap between intelligence and relevance.
Many AI products are technically brilliant but emotionally tone-deaf. They calculate, analyze, and recommend without understanding where we are in the moment. It’s like a financial advisor giving advice without grasping what truly matters to the client.
The blank canvas trap
An empty chat box isn’t always a simple start; it can also be a barrier. A great AI user experience (UX) meets users where they are. Orientation builds trust, and relevance drives engagement.
Context as a design principle
In AI design, context means understanding what matters right now: the task, the goal, and the rhythm. Systems that use available signals to anticipate the next useful step make support feel natural, not mechanical. When that happens, technology stops being a tool and starts feeling like a partner.
My framework for context-aware AI UX
Context first: People shouldn’t have to learn how to “talk right” to AI. The system should understand the person’s situation and what matters next.
Right format: Whether it’s text, a chart, or a short explanation, the format must fit the moment, not the other way around.
Visible reasoning: When AI suggests an action, it should show why. This builds trust and accountability.
Why this matters in wealth management
A customer is faced with the question of whether to sell part of their assets. A generic AI shows generic market trends. A context-aware AI sees the full picture: the client is 42, has three kids, plans to buy a house in 18 months, and 60% of their portfolio is in tech stocks. The response becomes relevant, responsible, and human.
In short: Trust comes from clarity, and decisions need context. AI without context may impress, but it won’t make an impact.
My question to you: How much context would your AI actually need to give a really good recommendation?
