The growth of data
Continuing structural shifts in data consumption
In brief
01
02
03
Layers of new demand behind growth
No one isolated factor
Whilst AI may have been the industry buzzword, the global growth in data was well in train before the leap forward in 2022-2024. The growth of cloud storage, increased mobile coverage (and usage) in the developed world, and the emergence of IoT devices have all contributed to the need for data processing, management and storage. We foresee that the growth of data will continue but will inevitably slow down as alternative models and efficiencies emerge.
Key takeaways
Data is now a core business asset
90% of businesses classify data as critical, with 98% utilizing cloud storage.
AI is accelerating demand
Projected 70% increase in AI-specific data capacity requirements, especially from model training.
Efficiency > Volume
A shift toward hybrid cloud, smarter models, and alternative computing is tempering runaway data growth.
Networks are under pressure
Telcos face compounded challenges across scalability, latency, energy, and business model transformation.
Data centers are a new utility need
Global capacity expected to triple by 2030, driven by enterprise, tech, and AI workloads.
Investors are pivoting fast
From CRE to core infrastructure, data centers now attract capital from PE, CVCs, and institutional funds.