By 
New Ocorian study reveals 86% use AI in operations, yet only 7% currently seek AI investment opportunities—though 74% expect to increase exposure within three years.
Family offices are rapidly integrating artificial intelligence into their daily operations and data strategies, yet most remain cautious about investing directly in the sector, according to new global research from Ocorian, the specialist provider of services to high-net-worth individuals, family offices, financial institutions, asset managers, and corporates.
RELATED: Why AI fails small businesses: Resolving the readiness gap
The study—conducted among family members and senior executives managing combined wealth of $119.37 billion across 16 countries and territories including the UK, US, UAE, Singapore, Switzerland, Hong Kong, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Mauritius, and Bahrain—reveals a sector in transition: embracing AI operationally while adopting a wait-and-see approach to investment.
AI Adoption: Operational Gains Outpace Investment
The findings highlight a striking contrast between operational uptake and investment appetite:
- 86% of family offices are using AI technology to improve operations and data insights
- Only 7% are currently seeking investment opportunities in the AI sector
- Nearly three out of four (74%) expect to increase investment in AI and other digital assets over the next three years
- 20% plan to dramatically increase investment in the sector
This suggests a significant shift on the horizon, with family offices preparing to move from operational users to active investors as confidence in AI matures.
AI’s Transformative Potential: Patience Prevails
Around a quarter of respondents (26%) strongly agree that AI will reshape how family offices are run and will boost performance, value, and growth within the next year. However, the majority (72%) believe the major impact of AI on family office operations will not be felt for another two to five years.
This measured outlook reflects a sector that recognises AI’s long-term potential while remaining deliberate about timing and execution.
Industry Perspective: A Gradual Transition
Michael Harman, Commercial Director UK & Channel Islands at Ocorian, commented:
“Family offices are gradually adopting AI and technology as part of their operations and are particularly using it for data insights. However, adoption of AI is still in its early stages across the sector, and most are not currently investing. There is a realisation that it will have a major impact and family offices need to start exploring the sector and will need support in making the transition.”
“In the meantime, we are working with our family office clients—including those who may choose not to adopt AI directly—so they can still get the outcomes they want, without having to take on the implementation and associated risks themselves, as we take significant steps towards adopting AI as a service provider.”
Ocorian’s Family Office Services
Ocorian’s dedicated family office team provides a seamless, holistic approach to the challenges and opportunities families face. Its service model is built on long-term personal relationships. All of these underpinned by a deep understanding of what matters most to family office clients.
Key services include:
- Formation and administration of family offices
- HR support services
- Lifestyle and luxury asset management
- Family governance structures
- Resident and relocation services
- Specialist immigration, visa, and payroll support
- Marine and aircraft crew management
- Financial reporting and compliance
With a global presence, Ocorian delivers bespoke structures and services for international families, wherever they are based.
Methodology
The global study surveyed family members and senior executives working for family offices across 16 countries and territories. They represent total combined wealth of $119.37 billion.
