eToro CEO Yoni Assia: AI to Revolutionize Retail Investing by 2030
Dubai is witnessing a significant transformation in the financial landscape, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). eToro, a global multi-asset trading and investment platform, is at the forefront of this change. Yoni Assia, Co-Founder and CEO of eToro, emphasizes the potential of AI to enhance the investing experience for retail investors over the coming years.
AI’s Role in Democratizing Investment Tools
Assia asserts that AI will soon provide retail investors with access to sophisticated tools previously available only to institutional investors. These tools will include advanced portfolio analysis, risk management, and personalized insights. Over the last two decades, eToro has focused on democratizing finance, transitioning from lowering fees and enhancing user experience to providing educational resources. The next phase, according to Assia, will center on equipping retail investors with quantitative trading capabilities and advanced investment tools.
Introduction of AI-First Investing Experience
Recently, eToro launched an AI-first investing experience, fundamentally redesigning its platform to prioritize intelligence. The new mobile app features agentic trading and sub-accounts, along with a revamped desktop platform tailored for active traders. Central to this upgrade is Tori, eToro’s AI agent, which proactively presents relevant information to users, enhancing their ability to identify opportunities and manage risks. Tori’s persistent memory allows it to recall a user’s portfolio, interests, and past activities, creating a more contextual and personalized experience.
Users can leverage Tori to build or replicate portfolios managed by AI agents that operate continuously on their behalf. This AI is grounded in the real decisions and track records of millions of investors over the past two decades, offering a unique form of intelligence that is challenging to replicate.
Opportunities and Challenges for AI in Investing
Assia identifies AI as a transformative opportunity for retail investors, enabling them to access technology that was once exclusive to professionals. This shift is expected to accelerate innovation within companies like eToro, leading to the development of superior products. He believes that retail investors will emerge as the most informed participants in the market.
However, Assia acknowledges that trust remains a critical challenge. Investors must have confidence that AI operates with reliable data and adheres to clear guidelines, supporting rather than replacing their decision-making processes.
The Democratization of Investment Strategies
Assia is optimistic about AI’s potential to democratize sophisticated investment strategies that have traditionally been the domain of institutional investors and wealth managers. He envisions a future where every retail investor has access to resources akin to a family office or hedge fund. AI’s ability to analyze markets continuously and provide personalized insights will empower investors to formulate strategies aligned with their objectives.
He emphasizes that while AI enhances capabilities, the investor retains control, marking a significant advancement in the democratization of finance.
Navigating AI-Generated Content
As AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, Assia stresses the importance of maintaining judgment in investment decisions. He believes that AI should serve to improve decision-making by connecting investors with trustworthy, real-time information and challenging assumptions. Financial education will remain essential, as the quality of investment decisions hinges on a solid understanding of the underlying information.
UAE: A Dynamic Fintech Hub
The UAE has established itself as a leading fintech and investment hub, characterized by a forward-looking financial ecosystem. Assia notes that the UAE’s regulatory environment fosters innovation, aligning with eToro’s global expansion strategy. The company’s presence in Abu Dhabi, coupled with its license from the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), allows it to operate within a well-regulated framework.
Evolving Investor Preferences in the Region
Assia observes that AI adoption is not limited to younger generations in the UAE. A recent survey of 1,000 UAE-based retail investors revealed that older investors (aged 35–62) exhibit similar digital savviness as younger investors (aged 18–34). Trust in AI-generated investment recommendations is nearly equal across age groups, with 76% of younger investors and 75% of older investors acting on AI-generated suggestions.
Investment preferences also differ by age. Younger investors tend to favor sectors such as technology, healthcare, and renewable energy, while older investors lean towards energy, financial services, and mining. This trend indicates a generational divide in investment focus, with younger investors prioritizing innovation and sustainability.
Local Investment Opportunities and Economic Growth
Assia highlights the importance of UAE-listed investment opportunities in enabling local investors to engage more actively in the country’s economic growth. eToro aims to facilitate access to global markets, including local investment options. The launch of the UAE Economy Smart Portfolio allows investors to gain exposure to key stocks listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) and Dubai Financial Market (DFM) with a single investment.
Strengthening eToro’s Presence in the UAE
eToro is actively collaborating with local exchanges like ADX and DFM to broaden access to UAE-listed investment opportunities. The company is also partnering with organizations such as Sahab School to enhance financial education. Initiatives like UAE PASS integration aim to streamline the user experience, while eToro remains engaged in local financial and crypto communities through events such as Abu Dhabi Finance Week and Bitcoin MENA. The company is also enhancing its brand through strategic sporting partnerships and exclusive client events.
Regulatory Environment and Innovation
Assia argues that a clear and forward-looking regulatory framework is essential for fostering innovation. The UAE has made significant investments in creating an environment conducive to rapid technological development while ensuring investor protection. Government initiatives, including UAE Vision 2031 and the National AI Strategy, have positioned the region as a hub for fintech and digital assets.
The UAE’s favorable business climate has attracted top talent in these sectors, which is crucial for driving innovation. Many prominent Pro Investors on eToro have relocated to Dubai, further enriching the local investment ecosystem.
The Future of Investing in the UAE
Assia anticipates that traditional retail investing will continue to evolve due to digital platforms. The convergence of social investing and AI will redefine the investment landscape. Retail investors will benefit from learning from one another through social feeds and copy trading, while AI agents will assist in decision-making and risk management.
As users develop applications with AI-assisted coding tools and share them on the eToro App Store, the social investing experience will gain new dimensions. The principle of collective intelligence remains central, with AI serving as a tool to empower investors.
Source: www.emirates247.com
Read all the latest developments and breaking updates in the Latest News section.
Published on 2026-07-14 16:26:00 • By the Editorial Desk
