IMF: The scale of global AI investment may exceed $2 trillion in 2026, and the dependence on debt financing will expand simultaneously

The Zhitong Finance App learned that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) released its latest annual report, quoting external estimates that the scale of global artificial intelligence (AI) investment led by the private sector may exceed 2 trillion US dollars this year, making it one of the strongest drivers for economic growth in recent years.

The report points out that investment in AI-related technology is estimated to drive the US GDP growth rate to increase by 0.5 percentage points in 2025, while the increase in productivity growth in the US in recent years also reflects, to some extent, the positive impact of AI applications in the early years.

The report also pointed out that in this wave of AI investment, the Asian region is also playing an important role. Among them, East Asia is the core hub for global chip manufacturing and design, while Southeast Asia is using its manufacturing advantages to further enhance its position in the global value chain.

However, the report also warned that there are hidden concerns behind the AI investment boom. As the scale of related infrastructure and projects continues to expand, some high-cost investments are increasingly dependent on debt financing. If future returns fail to meet expectations, it may trigger chain effects such as significant adjustments in asset valuations, shrinking wealth, and corporate layoffs.