Data Management

Material risk in focus - May 2026

Data Management was fourth top risk in the H1 2026 Top Risk Review.

Data Management risk has consistently been perceived as a key material risk in our Top Risk Reviews, with no change in ranking since 2020. 

As AI becomes more embedded in decision making and operational processes, the quality and governance of underlying data take on greater importance. AI systems rely heavily on accurate, well‑controlled and well‑understood data, meaning that existing data challenges can have wider effects as AI is scaled. Strengthening data quality, lineage and governance, supported by good data hygiene, will be key to ensuring AI delivers sustainable benefits while supporting effective risk management and regulatory compliance. In the face of these challenges, firms are focusing on honing their data management practices.