Paul Andrew Williams and Caroline Bartleet have adapted the series from Robert Harris’ best-selling novel of the same name, and David Caffrey (Peaky Blinders) will direct.

The four-part series tells the story of Dr Alex Hoffman (Hartnett), a genius computer scientist who sets out to make a fortune.

When Alex develops an AI system, VIXAL-4, that exploits fear in financial markets to make massive profits, he launches the technology to investors alongside his best friend and Hedge Fund business partner, Hugo (Arsher Ali).

Billions are within reach for all involved, but what ensues is the worst 24 hours of Alex’s life as his plans are upended and he’s forced to question reality.

Alex is first shaken when a man viciously attacks him at his home in the heart of Geneva’s financial district having somehow known his security codes. After more unexplained occurrences, he becomes convinced he is being framed, but it is up to Detective Leclerc (Grégory Montel) to crack the case.

Gabriel Silver, Director of Commissioning, Drama, Sky Studios, said: “Paul and Caroline’s scripts offer a relentlessly gripping take on a chilling Frankenstein parable of our times, and we are delighted to be working with Left Bank and the incredible cast led by Josh Hartnett to bring Robert Harris’s thrilling story to Sky viewers later this year.”

The Fear Index begins filming in April and will air on Sky Atlantic and NOW TV later in 2021.