Core Insights - The article emphasizes the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the banking industry, particularly for small and medium-sized banks, highlighting AI as a core driver of digital transformation [1][2][3] Group 1: AI Integration in Banking - AI is viewed as a new engine for banks, evolving from a tool for efficiency to a core driver for restructuring management processes [1][2] - Qingdao Bank has implemented AI applications in nearly 20 scenarios and plans to expand to about 100 high-value scenarios by 2026, covering risk control, marketing, operations, and office management [1][3] Group 2: Strategic Focus Areas - The bank's digital transformation strategy focuses on four key areas: smart marketing, smart risk control, smart operations, and smart office [2][10] - AI technology is shifting the bank's operational focus from transaction processing to interactive management, enhancing core capabilities [2][3] Group 3: Challenges and Solutions - Small and medium-sized banks face challenges such as talent shortages and resource constraints in digital transformation [5][6] - Qingdao Bank is addressing these challenges by combining external recruitment with internal training and fostering partnerships with technology firms and educational institutions [6][8] Group 4: AI Application and Risk Management - The bank evaluates AI application effectiveness based on business value, customer experience, operational efficiency, and risk control [4][9] - Risk management strategies include establishing a new technology review mechanism and a comprehensive data governance system to ensure data security and privacy [9] Group 5: Digital Financial Services - Qingdao Bank aims to support the "Five Major Articles" of financial services through digital finance, enhancing service accessibility and customer satisfaction [15][16] - The bank has launched various initiatives in technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, and pension finance, leveraging AI and data analytics [15][16] Group 6: Future Plans - The bank has outlined a three-year AI "Hundred-Thousand Plan" to focus on high-value scenarios and integrate capabilities across various functions [17]