Angelo Di Cristo, Head of Department at UNI Global Union, brings extensive experience in digital transformation and the evolving dynamics of work in the financial sector. In this interview with Banking News’s News Chief Nikesh Khatri, he shares insights on how Nepal’s banking and insurance industries can deal with the opportunities and challenges of digitalization, AI adoption, and workforce reskilling. Drawing on international perspectives and trade union expertise, Di Cristo discusses the future of work, the importance of human-centered technology and strategies for ensuring a smooth transition amid rapid technological change.

Welcome to Banking News. As this is your first time in Nepal, how has your overall experience been so far?

It has been a very good experience. The people are lovely and warm, and they have shown great hospitality. It is a wonderful country.

Nepal’s financial sector is rapidly embracing digital transformation. From your international perspective, what immediate changes does this typically bring to the workforce?

AI is not yet fully integrated into the sector, but there have been some initial steps. From a trade union perspective, the advantage for Nepal’s banking and insurance sectors is that they can begin discussing these changes before the full implementation of AI or generative AI. They can anticipate challenges and learn from the experiences of other countries.

Employees often fear job losses. Does digitalization eliminate jobs or fundamentally change them?

It depends on how deeply AI becomes embedded in business operations. While I remain optimistic, it will likely lead to some reduction in staff. However, the human presence will not disappear. People making investments or taking loans still want to see a human face to discuss their money and savings, rather than relying solely on a machine.

As roles change, what new competencies are becoming essential for banking and finance professionals?

The need for traditional roles such as tellers or credit specialists may decrease. The future will likely require experts in mathematics and data analysis who can manage algorithms. At the same time, banks must remain ‘human’ because of the nature of the services they provide.

How proactive should banks be in reskilling their staff, especially in developing economies like Nepal?

Reskilling is a key issue and a responsibility of employers. It is in their interest to have staff who are well prepared for the ‘new future’ of work.

What models of collaboration between unions and financial institutions have worked best globally during technological disruption?

We have experience with global agreements that ensure technological transformation remains human-centered rather than solely AI-driven. It is vital for trade unions, as key stakeholders, to be involved in discussions with employers and worker representatives to find solutions and ensure a smooth transition.

Do you see unique challenges in countries like Nepal, where digital adoption is accelerating but institutional capacity may be uneven?

It is certainly a challenge, but Nepal could become a positive example for the region. What is achieved here could serve as inspiration for both employers and trade unions in other Asian countries.

How should ‘decent work’ be redefined when remote work, platform-based services, and AI-driven systems become the norm?

Remote work expanded significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, but many enterprises are now calling workers back to their headquarters. While remote work helps maintain employability, rules regarding privacy and the ‘right to disconnect’ must be respected. AI must serve people—not the other way around.

What key advice would you give Nepal’s banking leaders and employees to prepare for the next wave of digital disruption?

They should continue to maintain high-quality social dialogue. Even if they agree to disagree, sustaining that dialogue is how they will find the best solutions for both companies and workers.

Thank you very much for your time.

Welcome & thank you for interview. Thank you !