This is part 1 in our series on Generative AI.

Generative AI is rapidly reshaping finance and accounting by accelerating analysis, supporting research, improving reporting workflows, and expanding access to data-driven insights. Generative AI is a subset of artificial intelligence designed to create new, original content—such as text, images, code, or audio—by learning patterns, structures, and nuances from vast datasets.

Recent professional and regulatory commentary highlights the need for strong governance, human oversight, data protection, and quality controls. Finance teams are exploring how these tools can assist with drafting narratives, summarizing technical guidance, analyzing transactions, supporting close and reporting activities, and enhancing audit and compliance processes.

The course examines key risks such as hallucinations, confidentiality concerns, bias, weak documentation, and overreliance on AI-generated output, along with governance practices needed to support responsible adoption.

By the end of the course, participants will be better prepared to evaluate generative AI opportunities, design appropriate guardrails, and apply professional judgment when using AI in finance and accounting environments. Participants will explore real-world use cases across accounting, financial reporting, FP&A, tax, audit support, and controllership activities.

This course provides finance and accounting professionals with a practical understanding of how generative AI works, where it can create value, and where caution is required.