AI's Real Goldmine Lies with the Users, Not the Builders

Vanguard's Joe Davis argues that the true value in artificial intelligence lies with its users, not the builders, as the AI boom transitions. He advises investors to pivot from AI infrastructure companies to sectors like healthcare, financial services, and business services that will benefit from AI integration. Davis recommends value-oriented US stocks, non-US developed markets, and high-quality fixed income as defensive plays for the next decade.

AI's Real Goldmine Lies with the Users, Not the Builders Vanguard's Joe Davis suggests the true value in AI lies with its users, not builders. As the AI boom transitions, investors should eye sectors poised for AI integration. AI's infrastructure might have dazzled investors with its rapid growth, but Vanguard's Joe Davis has a word of caution. While AI builders like hyperscalers and hardware makers soar now, it's the eventual users who may reap the real rewards. The Shift from Builders to Users The history of transformative technologies teaches us something essential. Builders often don't capture the long-term value. Davis draws parallels, noting how electricity enriched manufacturers more than power companies. Similarly, AI could follow this pattern, with users reaping the benefits over the long haul. So, where should investors turn their gaze as the AI landscape evolves? Davis points to value-oriented US stocks, non-US developed markets, and high-quality fixed income. These areas could benefit from AI's transformative capabilities in the next decade. Positioning for the Future What sectors stand to gain? Think healthcare providers, financial services, and business services firms. These industries could use AI to automate tasks and tailor services, making them prime beneficiaries of AI's magic. Forget the hype around AI builders. It's the users who may end up commanding attention /glossary/attention . That's the shift Davis advises investors to prepare for. Are you ready to pivot as AI moves from the development phase to the user adoption phase? Defensive Plays in an Uncertain Future Investments in AI users not only offer growth potential but also serve as a defensive strategy. Should the AI frenzy cool off, these investments could still hold value. Davis suggests funds like the iShares Core S&. P US Value ETF, Schwab International Equity ETF, and Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF as promising options. The question remains: Will investors recognize the true goldmine with AI users, or will they miss out on a shift that echoes past technological revolutions? Africa isn't waiting to be disrupted. It's already building. Perhaps the world should take note. Get AI news in your inbox Daily digest of what matters in AI.