As we look toward the future, the intersection of AI and data privacy is rapidly evolving. One of the most significant shifts on the horizon is the introduction of the AI Act, a landmark regulation from the European Union designed to ensure that artificial intelligence is used ethically, transparently, and safely. For those of us in leadership, it is crucial to understand how this new legislation will interact with existing frameworks like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and what it means for the future of innovation and compliance.

Imagine your organisation has developed a cutting-edge AI tool capable of processing vast amounts of data, automating decisions, and delivering insights at lightning speed. But with that power comes responsibility. The AI Act categorises AI systems into different levels of risk, ranging from minimal to high. the new regulations will place additional requirements on your development and deployment processes.

Much like GDPR, the AI Act demands transparency and accountability in how personal data is handled. It’s not enough to simply have an AI system that works; the individuals whose data is being processed must understand how decisions are being made, especially when these decisions affect their lives in meaningful ways. If we draw a parallel to GDPR’s focus on data protection and consent, the AI Act goes a step further—ensuring that AI’s role in decision-making is visible and, most importantly, challengeable.

There’s also the issue of data security. GDPR has long championed the importance of safeguarding personal data, and under the AI Act, any AI system that handles such data must adhere to strict data governance and risk management standards. High-risk AI systems will require regular assessments to ensure they are not only secure but also ethically sound.

At IFB Gaming, this new regulatory landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. Compliance with the AI Act means building trust with users, showing them that their data is being used responsibly and that AI decisions are transparent and fair. As senior leaders, it is our responsibility to ensure that our innovations do not just meet today’s standards, but are prepared for tomorrow’s regulatory expectations.

In the end, the AI Act and GDPR are two sides of the same coin: one governs data privacy, while the other seeks to manage the growing influence of AI in our digital world. Together, they form a framework that will shape how we innovate, build trust, and ultimately, how we lead.