**AI Driving Global Investor Demand in Data Centers**
Interest in data centers continues to surge, according to the recently released CBRE 2025 Global Data Center Investor Intentions Survey. The survey, which gathered insights from 92 major global investors, points to a sustained and growing appetite for data center investments around the world.
**Key Takeaways from the Survey:**
– Capital commitment to the data center sector remains strong.
– A resounding 95% of respondents said they plan to increase their investments in data centers this year.
– High-risk strategies are gaining traction as investors seek higher yields.
While commitment is high, some investors are rebalancing their portfolios or considering monetizing gains—likely in reaction to higher asset valuations and evolving risk profiles. In fact, 42% of respondents indicated they expect to sell more this year than last, while 30% said they have no plans to sell.
Confidence in data center pricing remains resilient, even amid broader market volatility. Over half of those surveyed (53%) believe cap rates will remain unchanged throughout the year.
**Growing Focus on Hyperscale and AI Infrastructure**
Investors are increasingly attracted to hyperscale build-to-suit structures, particularly to support AI workloads. Nearly half (49%) of respondents identified this specific product type as the top investment opportunity over the next 12 to 24 months. The survey notes that demand from hyperscalers is driving interest in customized, scalable infrastructure.
**Challenges Facing the Sector**
Despite enthusiasm, several challenges continue to affect the data center investment landscape. About 39% of investors cited power availability and regulatory issues as significant hurdles. Delays in obtaining permits and power constraints are particularly seen as growth bottlenecks.
Other key obstacles include:
– Intense competition
– High asset valuations
– Limited product availability
– Rising cost and limited availability of debt
These insights collectively underline the strong and evolving interest in data center investments, with AI adoption acting as a significant catalyst. However, investors remain cautious about external risks and operational bottlenecks that could affect their strategies going forward.
