Tech

Global race for AI infrastructure amid soaring energy costs

Japan invests ¥1 trillion in AI infrastructure amid global tech race as energy costs and concerns rise

Published

3 weeks ago

December 22, 2025

Harvey Vargas

Japan invests ¥1 trillion in AI infrastructure amid global tech race as energy costs and concerns rise

In Short:
– Japan plans to invest ¥1 trillion in domestic AI to enhance infrastructure and compete globally.
– China is focusing on technological independence as domestic chipmakers prepare for public offerings.

Japan plans to invest ¥1 trillion ($6.34 billion) over five years in a domestic artificial intelligence company. This initiative aims to build infrastructure for AI, despite rising electricity costs raising concerns about the industry’s sustainability.The government will collaborate with SoftBank Group and Preferred Networks to develop the largest foundation model in Japan, employing around 100 engineers to compete globally. This effort reflects worries about the risks of relying on foreign AI technology.

China is also increasing its focus on technological independence. Domestic chipmakers are preparing for public offerings to enhance their capabilities, following successful launches by Moore Threads and MetaX in Shanghai. Companies such as Biren Technology and Baidu’s Kunlunxin are also planning to go public.

SoftBank is pursuing a $22.5 billion funding commitment to OpenAI by year-end, by selling assets and securing loans. CEO Masayoshi Son’s significant investment signifies a strong commitment to AI infrastructure.

AI Infrastructure

The rapid expansion of data centers is putting pressure on energy resources. Projections suggest data centers will consume 945 terawatt-hours by 2030, nearly tripling from 415 TWh in 2024. In the U.S., energy use by data centers could reach 9% to 12% of total supply by 2028.

Concerns have arisen over whether tech companies’ activities are raising residential electricity costs, with investigations launched by three Democratic senators targeting major companies like Alphabet, Microsoft, and Amazon. Utilities face significant expenses to upgrade grids, which may be passed on to consumers.

The energy demand is benefiting companies that supply power infrastructure. Jefferies recently upgraded GE Vernova to Buy, citing expected growth in gas pricing and long-term service demand amid rising energy needs.

Tech

Global memory chip shortage set to drive electronics prices higher

Global memory chip shortage raises electronics prices; impacts PCs, smartphones, and likely continues until 2026.

Published

4 days ago

January 9, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Global memory chip shortage raises electronics prices; impacts PCs, smartphones, and likely continues until 2026.

A severe global shortage of memory chips is sending shockwaves through the electronics industry, causing prices to rise across consumer devices. Experts warn that this shortage will continue until at least 2026, affecting everything from PCs to smartphones.

Major manufacturers, including Samsung Electronics, have reported record profits but caution that rising memory chip prices could put further pressure on the sector. This shortage is largely driven by AI technology demands, forcing companies to rethink production priorities.

Consumers should expect higher costs for electronics in the coming months, with price increases likely to continue through the end of 2026.

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Tech

CES 2026 Highlights: AI, robotics, and the future of innovation

CES 2026 explores AI, robotics, and sustainability, reshaping the global economy and redefining productivity and market dynamics.

Published

5 days ago

January 8, 2026

Harvey Vargas

CES 2026 explores AI, robotics, and sustainability, reshaping the global economy and redefining productivity and market dynamics

CES 2026 in Las Vegas is showing how technology is not just shaping consumer products but redefining the global economy. From AI breakthroughs to robotics innovations, the event highlights how new technologies are changing the way we work, move, and invest.

Brad Gastwirth from Circular Technologies joins us to share his insights on the biggest trends driving this transformation.

The event underscores the growing role of AI in shaping both market dynamics and consumer demand patterns, signalling a new era of innovation.

Robotics, mobility, and sustainability are also at the forefront. From real-time AI-driven mobility tech to energy-efficient computing, CES demonstrates how emerging technologies are integrating across sectors. Brad discusses the intersections of technology, sustainability, and capital expenditure, revealing how these trends are set to reshape productivity paradigms and sector leadership in the coming years.

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#CES2026 #AIRevolution #Robotics #Innovation #MobilityTech #SustainableTech #TechTrends #TickerNews

Tech

CES 2026 opens with AI powering the future of tech

AI dominates CES 2026 in Las Vegas, shaping future tech with smarter, personalized products for everyday use.

Published

5 days ago

January 8, 2026

Harvey Vargas

AI dominates CES 2026 in Las Vegas, shaping future tech with smarter, personalized products for everyday use.

The annual Consumer Electronics Show has officially opened in Las Vegas, with artificial intelligence taking centre stage across nearly every major product category on display. From consumer gadgets to enterprise tools, AI is shaping how technology is designed, used and experienced.

Major tech companies are showcasing smarter, faster and more personalised products, highlighting how AI is moving beyond concepts and into everyday applications. The focus this year is on practicality, efficiency, and seamless integration into daily life.

As CES continues, the event is setting the tone for where technology is heading in 2026, with AI no longer an add-on but a foundation for innovation.

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#CES2026 #ArtificialIntelligence #TechNews #Innovation #FutureTech #LasVegas #AIRevolution #Ticker