AI is becoming a macroeconomic variable because the investment cycle is now large enough to affect demand, energy systems, construction and capital markets.
The IMF projects global growth of 3.0% in 2026 and 3.4% in 2027. At the same time, the IEA reports that capex by five major technology companies exceeded US$400 billion in 2025 and is expected to rise by another 75% in 2026.
Data-centre electricity demand is projected to roughly double from 485 TWh in 2025 to 950 TWh by 2030. This links AI directly to power generation, grids, construction, industrial property and financing.
Australia is already attracting significant data-centre capital, while Vietnam offers a large manufacturing and digital-application base. The cross-border opportunity therefore extends beyond software into infrastructure, engineering, energy and AI-enabled industrial services.
Investors should focus on the full AI value chain and distinguish projects with real power access, customers and cash-flow visibility from projects driven mainly by valuation expectations.
PUBLICATION SOURCES
- IMF – World Economic Outlook Update, July 2026
- IEA – Key Questions on Energy and AI, April 2026
