An AI slowdown that takes some air out of the exuberance could actually extend the boom, Wall Street veteran says

Wall Street veteran Ed Yardeni warns that an AI slowdown, while appearing to deflate the exuberance surrounding the AI boom, could actually prolong the growth period. Mixed quarterly earnings, including Alphabet's negative cash flow and Microsoft's acceleration of capital spending, highlight investors' concerns over the sector's sustainability.

Yet, Yardeni believes these constraints are necessary for AI's long-term viability. He expects hyperscalers to maintain their investment momentum due to strong balance sheets, while weaker AI companies may face higher borrowing costs and reduced spending. Regardless of political shifts, such as the potential rise in AI scrutiny under a Democratic Congress, the U.S. economy's robust performance and the gradual implementation of any federal AI regulations suggest a gradual slowdown rather than an abrupt end to the boom.

A slower AI expenditure cycle could alleviate persistent inflation and reduce long-term interest rates, potentially benefiting the overall economy.