Jefferies strategist Chris Wood warns that the AI infrastructure boom could trigger massive capital destruction as cheaper Chinese open-source models challenge US dominance. With hyperscalers set to spend nearly $1.6 trillion over two years, investors are increasingly questioning whether returns will justify the unprecedented capex and rising debt.

Everyone is still debating whether China can compete in AI. Markets may already be asking a different question: What if China doesn't need to win...only commoditize the industry?

The generative artificial intelligence era requires relentless, heavy-asset spending that Chinese private markets are currently failing to supply