AI sector drives global economic resilience in early 2026

Despite geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions, the global economy is showing surprising resilience, largely fueled by the booming AI sector. A new IMF report highlights that investment in AI infrastructure—data centers, chips, and energy—is acting as a primary growth engine.

"The AI revolution is creating a capital expenditure cycle unlike anything we've seen since the internet boom," notes chief economist Gita Gopinath. The report projects global GDP growth of 3.2% for 2026, upgraded from previous forecasts.