Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming the job market by automating repetitive and data-driven tasks, especially in industries like finance, manufacturing, and customer service. The rise of Artificial Intelligence has sparked widespread fear that it will take away human jobs, especially in sectors where tasks are repetitive and easily automated.
Top leaders from Japan’s biggest financial companies shared their views with Bloomberg, saying that AI can support people in their work but won’t fully replace them. They’re trying to ease worries by explaining that while AI is useful, it won’t take away all human jobs. Instead, people and AI can work together.
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Mizuho Financial Group Inc. CEO, Masahiro Kihara, said that humans are still important because they can do things AI can’t—like having conversations, showing empathy, being creative, and making ethical decisions. He believes people can focus on more meaningful work while AI handles routine tasks.
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Daiwa Securities Group Inc. CEO, Akihiko Ogino, wants employees to use AI as much as possible because it helps them work faster and make better decisions. He sees AI as something workers can work with, not against.
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Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc CEO, Hironori Kamezawa, says AI should be treated more like a business partner than just a tool. His company is trying to fully embrace AI and become what he calls an “AI-native” company. He thinks people need to use their deep thinking and ability to take action alongside AI.
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Nomura’s CEO, Kentaro Okuda, sees it as a teamwork situation: let AI do what it does best (like fast calculations or data analysis), and let people do the work that adds more value (like building relationships or solving complex problems). He thinks this is especially helpful in Japan, where the population is aging and the workforce is shrinking.
These CEOs believe AI will support workers, not replace them. People will still be needed for the human side of work—thinking deeply, connecting with others, and making smart decisions.
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