10 years have passed since RPA exploded onto the scene in Financial Services, which in the current landscape of technology change feels like a lifetime.

RPA has been a great tool that did the job it was asked to do. But as we move into a new world of agents and AI capability, RPA is starting to feel a bit like that uncle at a wedding who still thinks he’s got the moves, but everyone else knows he’s way past it.

It is, however, only in the last two years that businesses have started to realise and wake up to this shift. In parallel the market has started to develop products that can not only replace RPA, but actually reimagine operations in a way that was not previously possible.

Whilst some advisory partners are talking about migration away from RPA, at Robiquity we see this moment as an opportunity for organisations to elevate what was once a tactical programme of work to a transformational talking point, and one that should be discussed at Board level.

Is RPA dead?

Well, 2015 RPA is definitely dead, but 2025’s Low-Code x Intelligent Automation x AI is where it’s at, and Banks and Insurance companies are starting to see the opportunity in front of them.

Just like in 2015, those who move first and fast will get the most benefit in what is still a very competitive marketplace.

The Cost of Staying Put

So, what happens to those who stand still? Well, they face the following:

1.      Missed AI advancements: Low-Code platforms integrate accessible and affordable AI tools that are reshaping the banking sector. The rigid nature of traditional RPA infrastructure is not set up to leverage AI efficiently. 

2.      Cost increases: The OG RPA vendors have increased prices (in some cases up to 400%!) in the last 3 years and now can’t compete with global Low-Code providers who also offer a complimentary set of ancillary services and products.

3.     Not Cloud native: Most legacy RPA estates are on premises, but the market is moving towards fully cloud-based data storage and infrastructure - which requires lower up front costs (as you avoid the expense of purchasing) and lower ongoing costs from maintaining hardware.

A key telling data point on the risk of staying put will be looking back at your original business case for RPA. I’m sure in today’s world it won’t stack up anymore.

RPA’s Last Dance

RPA was once the life of the party - reliable, familiar, and exactly what the moment (industry) needed. But as technology evolves, so too must the approach. It’s time to move on to something smarter, faster, and more in sync with today’s rhythm.

Financial Services organisations now have the chance to embrace a new era - one powered by Low-Code, Intelligent Automation, and AI. And that isn’t just a tech refresh; it’s a strategic, enterprise-wide transformational shift that belongs in boardroom conversations.

Let’s help you find your new rhythm. Talk to Robiquity today or get in touch with me personally at legerton@robiquity.com