Royal Bank of Canada Enhances Personalization With AI Solution
Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) has introduced its proprietary AI solution called ATOM (Asynchronous Temporal Model), developed by research institute RBC Borealis. ATOM was trained securely on large-scale, in-house financial datasets encompassing billions of client transactions. Integrated into RBC’s Lumina data platform, the model processes up to 10 billion transactions per minute, offering powerful insights across all business lines. It plays a key role in RBC’s broader artificial intelligence strategy and is already embedded in several of the bank’s products and services, providing the foundation for more tailored, intelligent, and efficient client solutions.
RBC Senior Vice President and Chief Science Officer Foteini Agrafioti said, “ATOM represents the future of banking at RBC. It helps to personalize products and services at an individual level and enables us to more deeply understand our clients’ individual circumstances. As such, we will be able to tailor our services for each client and fully utilize the breadth and insights of RBC data while maintaining privacy and security.”
ATOM is central to RBC’s objective of generating $700 million to $1 billion in value from AI by 2027. Its capabilities enable smarter decision-making while staying within a robust responsible AI framework that prioritizes data privacy and regulatory compliance. One significant application is in credit adjudication, where ATOM allows RBC to enhance its risk assessments using both traditional and non-traditional data sources. This results in more inclusive lending practices, such as improved access to credit for newcomers or clients with limited credit history. ATOM also enhances RBC’s Avion Rewards program by personalizing recommendations, increasing user engagement, and improving redemption rates.
Aetna Unveils AI-Enhanced Digital Tools to Enhance Patient Experience
Aetna, a CVS Health company, has launched Aetna Care Paths through its app along with AI-powered programs to make navigating the health care system easier for both members and providers. The innovation is part of CVS Health’s larger digital investment to improve patient experiences and streamline clinical support. Aetna Care Paths delivers personalized care guidance, combining benefit clarity, treatment recommendations, and wellness program access in one centralized location. With its patent-pending technology, the platform offers tailored support based on individual medical needs and conditions.
Aetna SVP and Chief Digital and Technology Officer Nathan Frank said, “Aetna Care Paths are one example of CVS Health’s $20 billion multi-year digital investment in making health care simpler to navigate, a key aspect of Aetna’s strategy of leveraging technology to deliver a better experience for our members and providers. Leading-edge digital tools, including AI, support members at every stage of their health journey.”
This shift represents a move away from the traditional transactional approach in health insurance to a more personalized, journey-based model. Members with chronic or complex conditions gain access to a support team, AI-curated wellness programs, and even care kits. Other enhancements to the Aetna Health app include features like vaccine scheduling through local CVS clinics, a clearer claims breakdown through an intuitive chart, an AI-powered chat for quick assistance, and Smart Compare, a provider-matching tool based on member preferences and clinical fit. The app also includes dark mode to enhance accessibility for users who prefer a low-light display.
Learn more about the new app features here.
Starbucks Discontinues Mobile Order-Only Stores
Starbucks is reimagining its store model by veering away from mobile-only pickup stores, acknowledging that they lack the personal warmth that defines the brand’s identity. CEO Brian Niccol emphasized that these spaces, often located in office buildings with no seating, don’t foster the human connection central to the Starbucks experience. As a result, the company plans to convert some of these stores into more traditional layouts with seating. Starbucks is also developing a new “coffeehouse of the future” prototype featuring a drive-through and indoor seating, expected to launch in the next fiscal year.
The changes are part of a broader effort to reverse a prolonged sales slump, which has seen same-store sales decline for six straight quarters. In response, Starbucks is investing over $500 million to boost staffing in U.S. company-operated stores and improve service through better employee training. The company is also testing technology upgrades to speed up service and refine order scheduling, while experimenting with new, trendy menu options like protein-enhanced cold foam drinks.
Despite underwhelming third-quarter earnings of 50 cents per share that failed to meet analyst expectations, Starbucks leadership remains upbeat. Niccol reported that pilot locations implementing service enhancements are already seeing faster service times and improved sales. He said the company’s broader turnaround plan is ahead of schedule, and though financial results haven’t yet fully caught up, there are clear signs of recovery. Meanwhile, Starbucks is taking cost-control measures, including corporate buyouts and performance-linked executive incentives, as it works to balance reinvestment in its workforce with operational efficiency.
View the full third-quarter results here.
Original Article Links:
RBC's proprietary AI foundation model for financial services aims to enhance personalized client experience
Aetna Launches New AI and Digital Tools to Improve Access and Care
Starbucks Abandons Mobile Order, Pickup-Only Stores