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Artificial Intelligence Continues Its Unyielding Ascendancy (For Now)

AI Distinction Lies in Demand Surplus Rather Than Overproduction Compared to Previous Technological Bubbles. Unlike speculation awaiting actualization, this is the dominance of reality surpassing our production capacity. This contrasts significantly with past instances. During the dot-com...

Artificial Intelligence: The Unbroken Bubble (Still Not Popped)
Artificial Intelligence: The Unbroken Bubble (Still Not Popped)

Artificial Intelligence Continues Its Unyielding Ascendancy (For Now)

In the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence (AI), a new economic phenomenon is emerging, reminiscent of historical bubbles such as the Dot-com, Mississippi, South Sea, Tulip Mania, Japanese Asset Price, and even the Filter Bubble. This new development, dubbed the AI bubble, is driven not by oversupply, but by excess demand.

Unlike the pre-built fiber-optic infrastructure of the past, AI capacity cannot be stockpiled in anticipation of future needs. Technological advances make yesterday's infrastructure obsolete within quarters, not decades. This rapid pace of change means that companies worldwide will need to invest a staggering $6.7 trillion into new data center capacity between 2025 and 2030 to keep pace with AI demand.

During the dot-com era, telecom companies overbuilt fiber-optic infrastructure in anticipation of exploding Internet demand. However, much of this infrastructure remained unused for a decade. The AI bubble shares this similarity, as reality is overwhelming the ability to build in the AI sector.

Every GPU depreciates at Moore's Law speed, and every data center requires constant, massive power draws. This physical inability to supply what the world needs could stall the AI bubble's growth.

The companies contributing most significantly to building new data centers between 2025 and 2030 to meet rising AI capacity demand include Microsoft (with an $80 billion global AI data-center spend), Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, Meta Platforms, and Digital Realty. These tech giants, along with others, are investing heavily, especially in Europe. Government incentives and renewable energy considerations also play a role in their expansion strategies.

As we navigate this new economic landscape, it's crucial to remember the lessons of history. The AI bubble, like its predecessors, may burst if demand outstrips supply. However, with careful planning and strategic investment, we can ensure that the AI revolution continues to drive progress and innovation, rather than stall due to our inability to keep up.

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