The evolving landscape of finance is increasingly shaped by emerging technologies, with artificial intelligence and digital assets at the forefront. A recent Morgan Stanley survey of its North American and European summer interns offers a revealing look into the varying adoption rates and perceptions of these innovations among the industry’s next generation, highlighting both enthusiastic embrace and cautious skepticism.
- Only 18% of interns owned or used cryptocurrencies, despite rising institutional acceptance.
- Interest in cryptocurrencies grew, yet 55% of interns expressed indifference.
- Nearly universal AI adoption was observed, with 96% of U.S. interns and 91% of European interns using AI tools.
- While AI was praised for saving time and ease of use, 88% of interns noted its need for accuracy improvements.
- A significant majority (over 60%) of interns expressed interest in owning a humanoid at home.
- Despite interest in humanoids, only a minority believed they would have a positive societal impact.
Digital Asset Engagement
Despite surging institutional acceptance of cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin (BTC) Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) on Wall Street, personal adoption among aspiring finance professionals remains modest. Morgan Stanley’s survey found only 18% of interns owned or used cryptocurrencies (up from 13% the previous year). While interest rose to 26% (from 23%), a majority (55%) still expressed indifference, though this figure declined from 63%. This contrasts sharply with BTC prices exceeding $100,000 and Ether surpassing $4,800. With eleven spot BTC ETFs amassing $53.7 billion and Ether ETFs $12.4 billion, the divergence between institutional integration and broader individual engagement is clear.
Widespread AI Integration
In stark contrast, Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption among future finance leaders is nearly universal. The survey revealed 96% of U.S. interns and 91% of their European counterparts utilized AI tools occasionally. Respondents largely agreed AI “save me time” and are “easy to use,” indicating high utility. However, 88% also noted the technology “needs accuracy improvement.” This rapid integration aligns with broader Wall Street trends, where “Magnificent Seven” firms are projected to invest $650 billion in AI-related capital expenditures and R&D this year, cementing AI’s role in operational efficiency and innovation.
Future Robotics and Societal Impact
The survey also probed interest in advanced robotics, specifically humanoids. A significant majority, over 60% of U.S. interns and 69% of European interns, expressed interest in owning a humanoid at home. Both regions anticipated these robots would offer “viable use cases” and eventually replace many human jobs. Yet, a cautious outlook dominated societal impact concerns; only 36% of U.S. interns and 24% of European peers believed humanoids would ultimately have a positive effect, reflecting considerable apprehension regarding advanced automation’s long-term implications.
Chris brings over six years of hands-on experience in cryptocurrency, bitcoin, business, and finance journalism. He’s known for clear, accurate reporting and insightful analysis that helps readers stay informed in fast-moving markets. When he’s off the clock, Chris enjoys researching emerging blockchain projects and mentoring new writers.