US tech giants' hidden AI debt swells 90% to $3.2tn in six months

· Tech · United States

Nikkei Asia reported that US tech giants' hidden AI-related debt swelled 90% to $3.2 trillion in six months, as companies borrow heavily to fund data centres and AI infrastructure. The Japan Times warned that global markets were already fragile and that big AI bets could break them, while Bloomberg noted the big AI stock selloff is happening at a bad time as companies lean on equity while share prices fall. DW reported that French, German and Italian bonds face pressure as US tech giants issue billions in AI bonds, competing with cash-strapped European governments for capital. The build-up raises questions about leverage across the AI trade.

Why it matters：Surging debt tied to AI buildouts links the technology boom to credit markets, so a slowdown in AI returns could spill into bond and equity markets well beyond the tech sector.

Key points

  • Hidden AI-related debt rose 90% to $3.2 trillion in six months, Nikkei Asia reported.
  • US tech giants are issuing billions in AI bonds, competing with European governments for capital.
  • Analysts warn the AI stock selloff is happening at a bad time.

Sources (original reporting)

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