Microsoft’s $3.2 Billion Investment in Australian AI Market
Microsoft, known for its investment in OpenAI, is now planning to inject $3.2 billion into the artificial intelligence (AI) market in Australia. This move comes as companies rush to invest in generative AI chatbot firms, with cloud computing and AI infrastructure also attracting attention from investors.
Microsoft Commits to Largest Investment in Australia
According to Bloomberg, Microsoft will invest approximately $3.2 billion over the next two years to boost the AI ecosystem in Australia. The company aims to expand its presence in the country’s cloud computing and AI infrastructure. Currently, Microsoft operates 20 data centers in Australia and plans to build nine more through this investment, bringing the total to 29. Additionally, Microsoft will collaborate with the state of New South Wales to establish the Microsoft Datacenter Academy.
AustralianSuper and Other Investments
In September, AustralianSuper, Australia’s largest pension fund, invested $1.6 billion in the Vantage Data Center, which supports the infrastructure needed for training and storing AI models. Other notable investments include France’s Iliad Group allocating approximately $105 million for an AI research lab in Paris and SoftBank’s $100 million joint venture with robotic warehouse company Symbotic. Nvidia, the world’s highest-valued chipmaker, plans to establish AI factories with Foxconn.
OpenAI’s Growth and Global AI Market Size
OpenAI, the parent company of ChatGPT, is eyeing an $86 billion valuation, indicating significant growth in recent months. Statista estimates that the global AI market size will reach nearly $2 trillion by the end of the decade.
Hot Take: Microsoft Boosts Australian AI Industry with $3.2 Billion Investment
Microsoft’s commitment to injecting $3.2 billion into Australia’s AI market is a significant move that highlights the company’s dedication to the country’s growth and prosperity in the AI era. With a focus on expanding its cloud computing and AI infrastructure, Microsoft aims to solidify its presence in Australia and contribute to the development of the local AI ecosystem. This investment comes as part of a broader trend of companies recognizing the potential of AI technologies and actively investing in related ventures worldwide.