UOB Thailand forecasts shift in AI investment toward infrastructure

UOB Thailand anticipates a new phase in artificial intelligence investment, shifting focus from semiconductor manufacturers and model developers toward the essential infrastructure required for widespread AI deployment. The bank maintains an “Overweight” rating for the US and emerging Asian markets for the second half of 2026.

Able Lim, Head of Deposit and Wealth Management at UOB Thailand, noted that while the previous investment cycle benefited from low capital costs and low inflation, the current landscape is more complex. He advised investors to prioritize “Resilience over Perfection,” focusing on high-quality assets and disciplined risk management to navigate volatility.

UOB expects the US economy to grow by 1.7% in 2026, supported by the labor market and AI-related investments. Regarding technological shifts, the bank identifies “Agentic AI”—which possesses the ability to plan, execute tasks, and connect with software—as one of three structural changes that will influence long-term investment returns.