Intelligent Automation in Investment Banking: Build vs. Buy Decision Framework
Investment banks confronting the imperative to deploy intelligent automation face a fundamental strategic choice: should they build proprietary systems internally, leveraging their domain expertise and unique data assets, or should they purchase commercial solutions from specialized fintech vendors who offer proven platforms with shorter implementation timelines? This build-versus-buy decision carries implications far beyond immediate technology choices, shaping organizational capabilities, competitive positioning, and long-term strategic flexibility. Firms like Goldman Sachs have historically favored building proprietary trading platforms and risk management systems, viewing technology as a core competency and competitive differentiator, while others have increasingly embraced commercial solutions that allow faster deployment and lower upfront capital requirements. The complexity of this decision has intensified as Intelligent Automation in Investment Banking has matured from experim...