OpenAI introduced a preview of a new personal finance experience in ChatGPT, powered by Plaid. Pro users in the U.S. can now connect their financial accounts with Plaid and get real-time answers and insights tailored to their actual financial picture, beyond generic guidance and information on best practices.

The collaboration allows users to receive personalized financial advice based on their real financial data, which they choose to share with the platform. This moves ChatGPT beyond general advice to offering practical recommendations tailored to each user, such as prioritizing debt repayment or managing savings.

Zach Perret, CEO of Plaid, sees the partnership as helping to empower users and improve their awareness of financial products. However, the platform clarifies that using ChatGPT does not replace a financial advisor; its role remains advisory and does not involve actual account actions or executing transactions on behalf of the client.

On the other hand, the OpenAI team explained that the system is in “read-only” mode, meaning the AI reviews the data and then offers suggestions, while decisions and execution remain with the user.

The recent period has seen a rise in individuals relying on AI for personal financial advice, such as budgeting or investment decisions, with the number of users exceeding 200 million according to company data. Even traditional banks and investment firms have begun incorporating AI into their services.