DBS Group Research has released a report examining how organisations can turn AI into measurable results as the technology becomes more widely available.
The report, Intentional AI: Connecting Intelligence, Capital and Outcomes, argues that access to advanced AI capabilities alone will become a less sustainable competitive advantage.
Instead, organisations will increasingly stand out through the problems they address and their ability to translate AI capabilities into practical outcomes.
While the first wave of AI development focused on technological capabilities, DBS Research expects the next phase to place greater emphasis on real-world applications.
Asia leads in industrial robotics despite receiving less AI funding
AI companies raised approximately US$270 billion in venture capital funding in 2025, according to the report. Nearly 80% went to North America, while Asia received just 5.7%.
Despite attracting a smaller share of investment, Asia accounted for 74% of global industrial robot installations in 2024. Europe represented 16%, followed by the Americas at 9%.
DBS Research sees this as an advantage for Asia as AI moves beyond prediction towards applications that can perform actions.
The region’s manufacturing capabilities, physical infrastructure and experience in technology deployment could support broader AI adoption.
Rather than focusing solely on developing increasingly advanced models, the report suggests Asia could create value by applying AI in sectors where it can deliver measurable improvements.
Financial inclusion and climate resilience among AI growth opportunities
DBS Research identifies ageing populations, healthcare access, climate resilience and financial inclusion as major challenges that could also create opportunities for businesses and investors.
In financial services, the report argues that expanding access only creates lasting value when it improves financial health and people’s ability to make economic decisions.
Similarly, more accurate weather forecasts become valuable when they help communities and businesses respond more effectively to climate risks.
These examples reflect the report’s broader argument that the benefits of AI depend on how organisations put the technology into practice.
Singapore could serve as Asia’s AI integration hub
DBS Research also identifies an opportunity for Singapore to connect the region’s strengths in innovation, manufacturing, technology deployment, finance and governance.
Rather than competing on the scale of AI development, Singapore could help businesses bring together these capabilities and support the adoption of AI solutions across borders.
The report suggests this role could help make Asian innovation more trusted, interoperable and attractive to investors.
DBS has also expanded AI adoption across its own operations. Global Finance named it the World’s Best AI Bank in 2025.
According to its 2025 annual report, the bank deployed more than 2,000 AI models across over 430 use cases. Its data analytics and AI initiatives generated approximately S$1 billion in economic value that year.
Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by smilephotoap via Magnific
