PARAMOUNT OF FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING FORECASTING WITH LEADING-EDGE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI): A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW AND FUTURE RESEARCH AGENDA IN NIGERIA

Abstract This study explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on financial forecasting and its critical role in shaping modern investment strategies. As financial markets grow increasingly complex, conventional methods struggle to keep pace, leading to the adoption of advanced AI technologies for predicting trends, mitigating risks, and optimizing investment decisions. The paper evaluates a variety of innovative AI models, tools, and frameworks revolutionizing financial forecasting, including Machine Learning (ML) algorithms like recurrent neural networks (RNNs) and long short-term memory networks (LSTMs), which excel at identifying complex patterns in financial data to improve prediction accuracy. Additionally, the research analyzes Deep Learning approaches, such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), for their ability to extract layered insights from diverse datasets, strengthening forecast reliability. The role of natural language processing (NLP) and sentiment analysis is also highlighted, demonstrating how they assess market sentiment and incorporate qualitative data into predictive models. The paper further investigates AI-powered tools like algorithmic trading platforms and robo-advisors, which automate investment strategies and enhance portfolio management using real-time data. Reinforcement Learning (RL) is examined for its adaptive decision-making capabilities in volatile markets. Emerging technologies, including quantum computing, are also discussed for their potential to revolutionize financial modeling by enabling sophisticated simulations and scenario analyses. Ultimately, this research provides a thorough examination of the evolving financial landscape, underscoring the need for ongoing innovation and adaptability to succeed in a rapidly changing industry.