Massive investments in artificial intelligence could be impacted by rising energy prices and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, according to S&P Global, cited by Reuters.
Record AI spending plans
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Before the escalation of the conflict in Iran, tech giants such as Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet and Meta planned to invest around $635 billion in 2026 in data centers, chips, and AI infrastructure.
This marks a sharp increase from $383 billion the previous year and just $80 billion in 2019.
Energy as a key constraint
According to Melissa Otto, high energy costs could become a major constraint.
AI infrastructure, particularly data centers, requires significant electricity, making the sector highly dependent on energy prices and grid capacity.
Potential market corrections
Although companies have not yet announced spending cuts, there is a risk of capital expenditure adjustments in the coming quarters.
Such changes could trigger a significant correction in global stock markets, which have been driven by AI optimism.
Geopolitical risks and supply concerns
At the CERAWeek conference in Houston, energy executives warned that supply risks are not fully priced in.
A potential 30% increase in energy prices could have ripple effects across the global economy.
Impact on global growth
These developments raise broader concerns about global economic growth and the sustainability of large-scale AI investments.
Photo: freepik.com
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