WEF sees faster AI adoption, but data centre jobs lag
In short
AI adoption is expected to speed up around the world over the next 12 months, according to the World Economic Forum’s September 2026 Chief Economists’ Outlook. Economists also expect productivity gains.
The report says data-centre investment may not create jobs at the same pace. It is not stated how big the job gap could be.
What the reporting says
Artificial intelligence adoption is expected to accelerate globally over the next 12 months, according to the World Economic Forum’s September 2026 Chief Economists’ Outlook. The publisher-supplied summary says economists see productivity gains from AI, while also warning that data-centre investment may not generate comparable employment. The immediate consequence is higher optimism for AI use and continued concern about job creation.
Why it matters
The World Economic Forum’s September 2026 Chief Economists’ Outlook says AI adoption should accelerate globally over the next 12 months, with productivity gains expected. The same publisher-supplied summary says economists remain concerned that data-centre investment may not bring comparable employment gains. The reporting does not quantify the job impact or identify affected countries or companies.