The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is reshaping investment opportunities in semiconductors and megacap tech companies.
OpenAI's ChatGPT and Meta have both faced infrastructure challenges due to overwhelming demand for AI services. In contrast, Alphabet's rollout of its upgraded Gemini AI model proceeded smoothly.
Projections indicate that Alphabet, Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft will increase their AI-related capital expenditure (capex) by 20% in 2025, reaching USD 267 billion. This surge in investment is expected to benefit chip manufacturers and cloud service providers.
The demand for data center capacity is increasing rapidly, leading to a need for expansion and electrification. Data centers consume a significant amount of electricity, with the demand expected to double by 2026. This growth in electricity consumption highlights the need for infrastructure investment.
The rise in electricity demand will require major investments in electrical grids and related equipment. Additionally, the demand for critical metals such as copper, aluminum, and lithium will increase. The intersection of AI and energy demand presents investment opportunities in power generation, energy storage, grid infrastructure, and transportation.
Private infrastructure investments, such as data centers and power infrastructure, may offer stable and attractive returns.
The U.S. Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) is expected to support infrastructure spending in the coming years.