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The market researchers at Gartner have revised their forecast from February 2026 significantly upwards: According to this, global IT spending is expected to increase by 13.5 percent this year and reach a total of 6.31 trillion dollars. Almost three months ago, Gartner had forecast an increase of almost eleven percent to $6.15 trillion.
Investments in data center infrastructure higher than expected
According to Gartner, artificial intelligence is the most important growth driver. Investments in AI infrastructure in particular are driving development forward. The data center systems segment is now expected to grow by 55.8 percent compared to the previous year – significantly stronger than all other categories. In February, the analysts “only” assumed an increase of almost 32 percent.
Spending on IT services, on the other hand, remains the largest item at more than $1.87 trillion despite moderate growth of just under five percent. Software is also experiencing strong growth, particularly in the area of generative AI.
