The Role of Smart Governance in Mitigating Financial Risks in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Evidence from Iraqi Banks

<ns3:p>This paper explores how smart governance can reduce financial risks in the Iraqi banking industry by focusing on the adoption of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to increase financial stability and operational efficiency. The study uses a combination of quantitative indicators of the dimensions of smart governance (standards, policies, practices, information, technologies, and skills) and financial risk dimensions (market, credit, operational, and investment portfolio risks) based on the secondary data provided by the Central Bank of Iraq covering the years 2023 and 2024. The results reveal a strong progression in all aspects of smart governance during the study time in the form of the rising number of licensed electronic payment providers, the rise of the percentage of current deposits, and the further use of bank accounts and electronic wallets. Also, the human resources in the banking industry have been enhanced with expertise in professional development initiatives. In the financial risk sector, the outcomes are a decline in non-performing loans, an upward trend in the ratio of credit to deposits and an increase in total deposits and total credit facilities, hence, an indication of an improvement in the ability to handle risk. The testing of hypothesis confirms that a strong governing process, including standards, policies, practices, information management, technology adoption and development of human skills, has a positive influence on financial risk management in the AI environment. The research suggests enhancing regulatory systems, increasing digital transformation programs, investing in human-capital growth, and introducing AI-based analytical solutions to guarantee long run sustainability and stability of the financial sector.</ns3:p>