Investment firm BlackRock highlighted in its latest macroeconomic review that 2026 will be a record year for investments in artificial intelligence (AI) in the United States. Analysts predict that spending on AI infrastructure development could exceed $500 billion, which is three times more compared to 2023. At the same time, capital investments in the sector continue to grow, and by 2027, they may reach even higher levels.
This is reported by Finway
AI as a Driving Force of the Economy and Financial Markets
BlackRock notes that AI-focused companies remain a key factor in profit growth in the US, with even more dynamic development observed in some external markets. The company’s analysts believe that the acceleration of investments in AI infrastructure is foundational for long-term economic growth. According to their estimates, in the second quarter of 2025, AI accounted for about 35% of the growth in US GDP, and by the end of the year, this figure exceeded 50%.
Despite concerns about potential risks and volatility, BlackRock emphasizes the long-term positive potential of the industry. The company highlights that the current AI boom is significantly different from the dot-com bubble of the early 2000s. Modern tech giants are demonstrating real profits and stable productivity growth, which confirms the validity of their market valuations.
“At this stage, we view the spikes of anxiety surrounding AI as a refreshing pause.”
Global Investments and Practical Returns from AI
BlackRock draws attention to the expanding circle of AI beneficiaries. The company’s research shows that an active investment approach allows for effective navigation through rapid changes in the sector, and differentiation among companies is becoming increasingly noticeable. Over the past year, significant investment deals have been recorded: Nvidia and OpenAI’s partnership worth $100 billion, Meta and CoreWeave’s $14 billion deal, and various projects from Nokia totaling $4 billion.
Positive signals regarding the profitability of AI investments are already emerging. In particular, JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon reported that the company benefits from AI investments at a level of $2.5 billion annually. Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser added:
“AI tools free up about 100,000 hours of development each week.”
The impact of AI extends beyond the US. In Europe, significant investments are focused on capital equipment and infrastructure for data centers. In emerging markets, the potential of AI is being unlocked through lower interest rates and the transformation of supply chains. Japan, according to BlackRock, stands to gain from the return of inflation and corporate changes that enhance business profitability.
In early 2025, US President Donald Trump presented a large-scale project called Stargate, aimed at developing AI infrastructure in the country, which included companies like OpenAI, Softbank, and Oracle. It anticipates investments of up to $500 billion.
Overall, BlackRock predicts that in 2026, artificial intelligence will remain the main driver of change in the markets. Active asset selection, flexibility, and a deep understanding of the transformations brought by AI are becoming crucial for investors and businesses.