Citigroup Raises 2026-2030 Global AI Capital Expenditure Forecast to $8.9 Trillion

Citigroup recently raised its forecast for global AI capital expenditure from 2026 to 2030 from $8 trillion to $8.9 trillion, an 11.25% increase. This adjustment reflects the continuation of AI investment trends, with capital accelerating into AI infrastructure such as semiconductors and data centers.

The report notes that the AI industry is transitioning from R&D to large-scale commercialization. Huge capital expenditures need to translate into higher productivity, otherwise there may be risks of insufficient returns. Meanwhile, investments are concentrated, with a few giants monopolizing the ecosystem by building moats like chips and models.

In addition, the intersection potential of AI and crypto economy is gaining attention. Bitwise predicts that their combination could bring $20 trillion in global GDP growth, and stablecoins may see their market value surge to over $2 trillion due to AI economic demand. However, the industry needs to be alert to resource misallocation and bubble risks.