NEW YORK, November 7, 2025 – Less than 9% of quantitative finance professionals believe new graduates have the AI and machine learning expertise needed to succeed in the field. This surprising insight is one of the key findings from a survey conducted by CQF Institute, a global network of quantitative finance professionals (“quants”), at this week’s annual Quantitative Insights Conference.
This study highlights the urgent need to close the skills gap in quantitative finance as AI becomes a key asset. 83% of survey respondents are leveraging or developing AI tools, and the main technologies used include machine learning (31%) and generative AI (31%). ChatGPT tops the list at 31%, followed by Microsoft/GitHub Copilot (17%), Gemini/Bard (15%), and deep learning (18%), with 54% of quants using these tools daily. Quants primarily employ generative AI for coding and debugging (30%), research and market sentiment analysis (21%), and report generation (20%).
AI and machine learning are also cited as fundamental to quantitative finance areas such as research/alpha generation (26%), algorithmic trading (19%), and risk management (17%). Almost half (44%) of respondents reported a significant increase in productivity. Approximately 25% of respondents report saving more than 10 hours each week with AI-assisted workflows.
Despite these productivity gains, challenges remain. Model explainability is the biggest barrier (41%), followed by computing costs (17%) and regulatory concerns (16%). Formal AI training is lacking. Only 14% of organizations have formal training programs such as certifications, and only 9% of new graduates have sufficient skills to use these tools.
Although the pace of AI adoption is hampered by obstacles, momentum is growing. One in four companies (25%) have a formal AI strategy in place, and the remaining 24% are actively developing one. Most companies plan to increase investment in AI talent, tools and infrastructure over the next 12 months, with 23% expecting a 25% or more increase in their budgets, highlighting the growing importance of AI in quantitative finance.
Dr Randeep Gug, Managing Director of CQF Institute, emphasized the need to equip graduates with the skills to make the most of AI tools.
“Our future professionals need to get serious and know when AI tools will truly deliver value,” he said, noting that recent research shows the industry is still making significant progress.
To close this skills gap, the CQF Institute aims to foster global knowledge sharing and professional development through its Certificate in Quantitative Finance (CQF) program and events such as the virtual annual Quantitative Insights Conference on November 4-5. Attended by 17 leading experts, including Dr. Paul Willmott, Professor Carol Alexander, Aaron Brown and Lisa Goldberg, the Quantitative Insights Conference sparked dialogue and groundbreaking discussions on topics such as trading, portfolio theory, AI applications, cryptocurrency microstructure, and quantum finance.
“Standardized certifications and specialized courses in quantitative finance and investment banking provide quants with important tools to drive efficiency and results. Continuing education and the adoption of innovative technology are essential to shaping the future of quantitative finance. Those who don’t move forward will be left behind,” concluded Dr. Gugu.
About CQF Institute
CQF Institute, part of Fitch Learning, is a global quantitative finance membership organization. As the awarding body for the Certificate in Quantitative Finance (CQF), CQF Institute provides learning opportunities and career advancement resources for quantitative finance professionals. With approximately 40,000 members worldwide, the CQF Institute hosts world-class conferences featuring prominent industry experts, talks on cutting-edge developments, career guidance sessions, and academic conferences that foster peer-to-peer networking across major financial centers. Members have access to exclusive resources such as Wilmot Magazine, research articles, educational videos, podcasts, and a dedicated job board that connects quantitative professionals with leading financial institutions. With academic and business partnerships spanning the globe, CQF Institute serves as a leading hub for advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and building connections in the quantitative finance community.
About Fitch Learning
Fitch Learning, a member of the Fitch Group, is a trusted global financial education provider. Built on deep credit expertise and strengthened by extensive experience across financial services, we deliver impactful learning solutions through client-focused programs, courses and professional qualifications. We empower organizations around the world to build future-ready teams by leveraging digital innovation and AI-driven learning tools. Fitch Learning, which owns the Canadian Securities Association, the CQF Association, and the Global Institute of Credit Professionals, is dedicated to supporting financial professionals throughout their career journeys. ”
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Public relations officer
Leandre Morake
leandre@aip.media
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