Model context protocol: Architectural framework for reducing AI dependency conflicts in financial services

The integration of Artificial Intelligence in the financial technology sector has evolved from isolated deployments to enterprise-wide imperatives, creating challenges for cohesive integration. This article shows Model Context Protocol (MCP) as a transformative framework addressing these integration issues in FinTech organizations. MCP provides a standardized methodology for models to reference and utilize external tools and resources without hardcoding dependencies, representing a paradigm shift in enterprise AI architecture. The article explores how MCP facilitates horizontal scaling of AI systems within FinTech enterprises, proposes a reference architecture for integrating domain-specific AI capabilities through standardized protocols, and evaluates the organizational implications of adopting an MCP-based approach. The article analyzes implementation challenges specific to financial services, presents a comprehensive enterprise architecture with core components including Tool Publisher, Model Context Broker, and Access Control Layer, and discusses future directions including measurable business benefits and research opportunities in technical, organizational, and regulatory dimensions.