One of the biggest challenges Mexicans face when it comes to managing and protecting their finances is the lack of financial education and habits such as planning and tracking monthly movements. Despite the importance of financial literacy in daily life, statistics show that only a minority of adults in Mexico have a solid understanding of basic financial concepts.
According to data from the Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía (INEGI), less than 25% of adults in Mexico possess basic financial knowledge. Furthermore, only 24% of the population practices monthly budgeting or keeps track of their income and expenses. This gap in knowledge and discipline makes many vulnerable to poor financial decisions, debt, and missed opportunities for savings or investment.
However, a powerful ally has emerged to help bridge this knowledge gap: Artificial Intelligence (AI). With the rise of digital platforms, AI has become an accessible and effective tool to support personal finance management.
The Role of AI in Financial Education
According to experts, AI tools can offer personalized financial advice, assist in creating and managing budgets, and provide instant answers to questions about personal finance. Beyond that, AI promotes the digitalization of financial life—making it easier for users to interact with and understand their financial health in real time.
Jorge Malanco, an executive at the fintech company STP (Sistema de Transferencias y Pagos), emphasizes that the first step in using AI for better financial habits is the willingness to adopt technology. “It’s normal to feel hesitant at first,” Malanco says. “I recommend doing detailed research and comparing what different AI tools have to offer.” Reading user reviews and feedback can help individuals select the right tool based on their specific needs.
Once users become familiar with how these platforms work, it is essential to reflect on the features they provide and the tangible results they deliver. AI’s real value lies in its ability to assist users in achieving short-, medium-, and long-term financial goals. This includes smarter saving, better debt management, and even fraud prevention.
Malanco adds, “You have to set clear goals and evaluate whether the AI you’re using is helping you meet those goals—and how quickly.”
Using AI Safely
While AI can be a great asset, users should be cautious about the type of information they share. Sensitive data like home addresses, bank account details, and passwords should never be entered into AI platforms. To protect personal information, one option is to use anonymous email addresses when creating accounts on these platforms.
Popular AI Tools for Managing Personal Finances
There are countless AI-based tools—both free and paid—available online. Among the most well-known is ChatGPT, which can help users organize their expenses, calculate budgets, and explain financial concepts in simple terms. However, the free version has a daily usage limit.
Other AI models such as Gemini (developed by Google), Perplexity, and Apple Intelligence—available on the latest Apple devices—can perform similar functions, offering users a variety of ways to engage with their finances more effectively.
In addition to general-purpose AIs, there are platforms specifically designed to help with personal finance management. For example:
- GoodBudget: This tool uses AI to allocate income into spending categories, helping users set and stay within limits.
- Pleo: This app uses algorithms to analyze spending and provide personalized financial recommendations.
These platforms aim to make budgeting and expense tracking intuitive and efficient. However, one limitation of many of these tools is that they are developed abroad and often only available in English, which can be a barrier for Spanish-speaking users.
Chatbots and Real-Time Assistance
Another effective way to integrate AI into daily financial life is through the use of chatbots. These virtual assistants can offer real-time guidance, answer urgent questions, and even alert users when spending exceeds certain thresholds.
The integration of AI into financial management is not just a trend—it is a step toward empowerment. With the right tools and a willingness to learn, anyone can take control of their finances. AI offers a practical and accessible way to gain knowledge, build better habits, and make smarter decisions.
In a country where financial literacy remains a challenge, AI platforms can serve as a bridge to a more secure and informed financial future for millions of Mexicans.