AI meets Shariah: ensuring robo-advisors for compliance in Islamic mutual funds

Purpose This paper aims to examine the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI)-robo-advisor in the Islamic finance industry, especially in Islamic mutual fund investment that emphasizes Shariah compliance. Design/methodology/approach This legal research uses a statute approach, conceptual approach, as well as a comparative approach between Indonesia, The UK and Malaysia. Findings This research shows that formulating a regulatory framework on AI robo advisors in the Islamic mutual fund industry is essential to achieve the right balance between innovation and responsible application of AI and ensure Shariah compliance. Financial institutions and supervisory boards should disclose and provide explicit information on the use of algorithms in decision-making and accountability of AI robo advisors in Islamic mutual funds. In terms of supervision, the sharia supervisory board has an important role supported by other technology-supported supervision models such as audit technology and regulatory technology and supervisory technology play an important role in protecting investors and the sustainability of AI robo advisors in Islamic mutual funds. Research limitations/implications This research examines the use of AI-robo advisors in the Islamic mutual fund financial industry in Indonesia, Malaysia and the UK. Practical implications This research highlights the importance of regulatory framework and supervision on AI and sharia mutual funds. The use of AI robo advisors can improve transparency and provide clear reporting on Shariah compliance and build investor confidence. Social implications Improve and encourage the growth of the Islamic finance industry using AI-robo advisors in Islamic mutual funds. Originality/value This research identifies the problems and legal issues of using AI-robo advisors in the fulfillment of Shariah compliance in Islamic mutual funds and recommends an ideal legal framework and supervision model.