OpenAI is taking ChatGPT to the next level by introducing a new financial feature that allows users to connect their bank accounts directly to ChatGPT.The new feature uses Plaid, a platform commonly used by financial apps to securely connect users bank accounts. With this integration, ChatGPT can help users track spending habits, manage budgets and better understand their financial situation.Through this feature, users can ask financial related questions such as:
- “Why did my spending increase this month?”
- “How much did I spend on dining out?”
- “Which subscriptions are costing me the most?”
- “How can I save more money every month?”
According to OpenAI, the system only has “read-only” access, meaning ChatGPT can view financial data but cannot transfer money or perform transactions from a users bank account.The feature is being seen as a major step forward in personal AI development, as ChatGPT is no longer just a chatbot but is starting to function more like a digital financial assistant that understands a users real financial situation.
However, the announcement has also raised concerns about privacy and data security. Many users are worried about sharing sensitive banking information with an AI platform due to the risks involving personal financial data.OpenAI stated that users can disconnect their bank accounts at any time and that the company is prioritizing user data security.
For now, ChatGPT Finance is only available to ChatGPT Pro users in the United States and is still in its testing phase. There is currently no official announcement on whether the feature will expand to other countries, including Malaysia.If successful, this could mark the beginning of a future where AI not only assists with daily tasks but also helps people manage their finances more intelligently.
