Jan Scheffel

Why AI Spending is Driving Rates Higher

Mark Wilson, Jan Scheffel, George Cole

Global fixed income yields have surged to multi-decade highs driven by persistent fiscal deficits, stubborn inflation, and massive corporate capital expenditure for AI infrastructure. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell signaled a continued hawkish stance, asserting that current monetary policy remains insufficient to curb inflation without further tightening. Analysts warn that while geopolitical instability and upcoming elections in France and the US pose political risks, the structural demand for capital from the AI sector and government borrowing will likely keep long-term yields elevated until productivity gains eventually materialize.