In an era where information overload has become the bane of every investor’s day, Axis Capital is turning to artificial intelligence to reimagine how research is consumed. With the launch of ‘Sound Bytes’, the investment bank has rolled out a first-of-its-kind feature in India: AI-generated two-minute audio summaries of its research reports.
The innovation is part of Axis Capital’s Future-Forward Research Solutions Suite, aimed at reshaping conventional text-heavy formats into smarter, more accessible insights. For institutional investors juggling dozens of reports daily, the promise is simple—listen, filter, and curate before diving deeper into detailed analysis.
“While Sound Bytes helps address the critical problem of information overload for investors, there are other solutions on the way that can reshape our engagement with clients,” said Atul Mehra, MD & CEO, Axis Capital.
Why Audio?
Research consumption has remained stubbornly text-based despite advances in technology. But with the surge of reports, analyses, and global updates, many professionals struggle with screen fatigue. Sound Bytes offers a way out—short, AI-generated audio briefs that can be consumed while driving, commuting, or even grabbing a coffee.
Unlike typical abstracts, these summaries are cognitive hooks that highlight key theses and calls to action, allowing investors to decide if a deeper dive is necessary. “Audio inputs simply require less mental processing and have been proven to reduce fatigue,” notes the company.
Built on AI, Backed by Scale
Axis Capital publishes thousands of reports annually. Automating summaries without compromising regulatory compliance was only possible with large language models (LLMs). The system integrates seamlessly into Axis Capital’s workflow and approval processes, ensuring speed without losing accuracy.
“The genesis of this product was the enthusiastic feedback to our podcasts and other non-text formats,” explained Neelkanth Mishra, MD & Head of Global Research, Axis Capital & Chief Economist, Axis Bank. “We intend to continue listening to our clients and responding to their changing needs.”
A Homegrown Solution
For Axis Capital, Sound Bytes isn’t just about AI—it’s about tailoring solutions to India’s unique market. “Innovation demands a departure from convention,” said Raman Jauhar, MD & Head of Equities. “Sound Bytes tackles cognitive strain for the buyside by streamlining access to our research. It’s a homegrown initiative, built for our market, not imported templates.”
Early Releases
Already, key reports such as the GST rationalization analysis by Neelkanth Mishra and a deep dive into quick commerce’s impact on brands have been converted into audio briefs. Recent thematic pieces—from household durables to diagnostics and rare earth elements—are also gaining traction through the Sound Bytes format.
Axis Capital sees Sound Bytes as the start of a larger journey. With AI powering faster turnaround times and new ways to deliver insights, the bank is positioning itself at the intersection of finance and technology.
As Atul Mehra sums it up: “The industry is awash in AI chatter, but we are glad to have the first product off the ground.”