AI data centres

Oracle has reportedly committed to paying investors in a data centre project even if the site lacks an electricity connection, according to a Financial Times report. The arrangement highlights the growing tension between the rush to build AI infrastructure and the reality that power supplies cannot keep pace with data centre demand.

The European Union is moving to restrict the energy and water consumption of data centres, according to Euronews. The measures would target the rapidly growing power and water demands of computing infrastructure, a topic that has drawn attention as artificial intelligence drives expansion of server facilities across Europe and raises concerns among residents and environmental groups.

US contract chipmaker GlobalFoundries says demand for Chinese optical modules is strengthening as data centre construction accelerates. The company is expanding its footprint in China to serve domestic clients, despite ongoing US-China technology restrictions. Analysts see the move as a sign that semiconductor supply chains remain tied to Chinese infrastructure growth even amid tightening export controls.

NVIDIA's GTC conference is in the news as the company's flagship event for announcing advances in AI chips, software and data centre technology. The gathering typically draws developers, researchers and investors looking for updates on NVIDIA's roadmap and its central role in the global artificial intelligence boom.

British data centre startup Nscale is reportedly pursuing a $35 billion initial public offering in New York, with law firms Latham & Watkins and Milbank leading on the deal. The flotation would mark a major exit for the UK-founded company as investor interest in AI infrastructure and data centres continues to drive some of the largest listings in the technology sector.