Hang Seng Bank adds forex functionality to AI-powered chatbot

Users can request data on current rates and detect nearby FX ATMs.

Hang Seng Bank has enhanced the capabilities of its AI retail banking chatbot, HARO, to address foreign exchange inquiries and concerns, according to a statement.

Also read: Hong Kong banks bust out the chatbots

From August 2019, retail customers will be able to ask HARO via the website and app for information on current foreign exchange rates and obtain historical price charts. In the conversational interface, users can log into their Personal e-Banking accounts and convert Hong Kong dollars into 12 foreign currencies as well as convert amongst the different foreign currencies. When customers wish to withdraw foreign currency cash, HARO can also provide the locations of nearby FX ATMs.

“The expansion of HARO’s capabilities and service scope has been an ongoing process since its launch in January 2018. This latest upgrade will enable customers to enjoy seamless foreign exchange services anytime, anywhere,”
Margaret Kwan, Executive Director and Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management at Hang Seng, said in a statement.

HARO, which stands for ‘Helpful; Attentive; Responsive; Omni,’ assists customers with personal finance management via their Personal e-Banking accounts and help them make small-value peer-to-peer payments in its chat interface through its connection with the Faster Payment System. The chatbot can also assist with paying utilities, tax and credit card bills and handle general product and service enquiries.