AI vs. Financial Modeling World Champion: Who Wins, and What Can We Learn from It

In this episode of The ModSquad, Paul Barnhurst, Giles Male, and Ian Schnoor are joined by Excel and Financial Modeling World Champions Michael Jarman and Diarmuid Early to discuss a unique “man versus machine” financial modeling challenge.

The group breaks down their experience testing AI against expert modelers using real financial modeling and Excel competition cases. They explore where AI performs well, where human judgment still matters, and what the future of financial modeling may look like as AI tools continue to improve.

Expect to Learn

• How AI compares against expert financial modelers in real-world challenges
• Where AI adds value and where human judgment remains essential
• Why reviewing and validating AI-generated models is becoming more important
• How AI tools are changing the future role of financial modelers
• Why strong modeling fundamentals still matter in an AI-driven world

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “AI can build something quick, but if you want it to be right, often the majority of the time is in checking it.” - Michael Jarman
• “The most interesting question is how do you get from something that works to something you actually feel confident in.” - Diarmuid Early

AI is changing the way financial models are built, reviewed, and improved. While AI can increase speed and efficiency, the best results still come from professionals who understand modeling principles, question outputs, and apply human judgement. The future belongs to modelers who can combine technology with expertise.

Follow Ian:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschnoor/

Follow Giles:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/

Follow Michael Jarman:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-jarman-excel/

Follow Diarmuid Early:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/diarmuidearly/

In today’s episode:

[00:00] – Trailer

[03:59] – Setting Up the Competition

[09:50] – AI Competition Commentary

[13:02] – Shortcut vs Human Results

[16:17] – AI Review Agents

[20:11] – Trusting AI Models

[29:41] – Future of AI Agents

[33:13] – Human Oversight in AI

[41:27] – Real-World Modeling Challenges

[45:54] – Beyond AI Prompting

[47:50] – Future of Financial Modeling

[53:20] – Closing Thoughts