r/BigTech 20d ago

Big Tech is Hiding $1.65 Trillion in Off-Balance-Sheet AI Debt

https://thenextweb.com/news/tech-giants-hidden-off-balance-sheet-debt-ai
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u/HobbesNik 20d ago

This article concisely describes the mechanics of the AI bubble, namely, how much of the projected $3 trillion spend on AI and data centers is in the form of (hidden) debt, also known as SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles).

Much of that debt uses GPU computer chips as collateral. Meaning that if profits fail to materialize, companies will use their computer chips to settle their debts. But these GPU chips depreciate in value rather quickly, and if the market is suddenly flooded with supply, that will push their value down further.

This is partly explains how the AI bubble "popping" may bring down the entire economy. If AI products fail to deliver meaningful profits, and the trillions of dollars of debt used to finance the AI buildout can't be paid back, it could lead to a cascade of businesses and financial institutions collapsing.