Generative AI (or GenAI), the technology that can create mass amounts of new content and data, continues to surge through industries. So, too, are funds surging; billions are being poured into startups and established players alike, all vying for a piece of the current AI gold rush. Venture capitalists are eager to back the next big thing in AI-powered content creation, while established tech giants are scrambling to integrate generative models into their existing platforms. The race is on to unlock the full potential of this technology and the stakes are high.
Looking at nations across the pond, Europe in general is doubling down on investments in the technology but is simultaneously treading a more cautious path than its North American counterparts, according to a new report from the Infosys Knowledge Institute.
The research arm of Infosys forecasts a 115% surge in GenAI spending by European companies next year, pushing the total to $2.8 billion. France and Germany are the frontrunners in Europe's GenAI race, with both countries expected to double their investments in the next year. Both nations boast well-established AI ecosystems and are prioritizing GenAI adoption in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and creative industries
The increase, however, lags behind North America, where GenAI investments are expected to hit nearly $6 billion in the same period.
Despite the impressive growth, the report paints a picture of European firms cautiously navigating the uncharted waters of GenAI. Compared to the rapid, sometimes unrestrained pace in North America, Europe's approach appears more measured, influenced by a stronger focus on ethical considerations and regulatory complexities.
This heightened sensitivity to ethical concerns stems from Europe's stricter regulatory landscape regarding data privacy and AI implementation. The General Data Protection Regulation, for example, imposes stringent controls on data collection and usage, prompting companies to develop and deploy GenAI in a responsible and transparent manner.
While concerns about AI ethics and regulation may slow down Europe's GenAI journey compared to North America, the report identifies several underlying strengths that could give Europe a competitive edge.
The European Union's strong commitment to research and development is fostering a vibrant GenAI research ecosystem, with leading universities and research institutions at the forefront of breakthroughs. Additionally, Europe's diverse cultural landscape and multilingual talent pool offer unique advantages in developing GenAI applications tailored to specific local markets and cultural contexts.
The report concludes by calling for continued collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers to create a sustainable and ethically sound GenAI future for Europe. This collaborative approach, the report emphasizes, will be crucial to ensuring that Europe not only harnesses the power of GenAI but does so in a way that benefits its citizens and fosters a responsible and inclusive technological landscape.
“Generative AI is driving phenomenal transformation across industries, and investment is happening at a rapid pace,” said Balakrishna D. R. (Bali), Executive Vice President, Global Head of AI and Industry Verticals, Infosys. “Our research has shown that for European businesses to derive business value, they must develop and evolve an AI-first operating model that prioritizes business transformation and skills development and enables them to maximize human potential.”
Be part of the discussion about the latest trends and developments in the Generative AI space at Generative AI Expo, taking place February 13-15, 2024 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Generative AI Expo discusses the evolution of GenAI and feature conversations focused on the potential for GenAI across industries and how the technology is already being used to create new opportunities for businesses to improve operations, enhance customer experiences, and create new growth opportunities.
Edited by
Alex Passett
