Microsoft is investing a total of $8.8 billion in artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure across Spain, Germany and the UK. In Spain, $2.1 billion will be spent over the next two years to open a Data Center Cloud Region in Madrid and a Data Center Campus in Aragon. The centres will provide Microsoft cloud services and enable Spanish and European organisations to access Microsoft’s AI solutions. “Our investment is beyond just building data centres, it’s a testament to our 37-year commitment to Spain, its security, development and digital transformation of its government, businesses and people,” said Brad Smith, vice chair and president of Microsoft. The investment is expected to contribute to the creation of 69,000 jobs in the country between 20262030, according to analyst IDC. Another €3.2 billion ($3.5 billion) will be used to expand Microsoft’s cloud and AI infrastructure in Frankfurt and the North RhineWestphalia region in Germany. “We want to enable the German economy to benefit from AI in order to continue to expand its global leadership position in competitiveness,” said Smith. “We see increasing demand for AI applications in key economic sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, Microsoft invests $8.8 billion in Europe’s AI New data centres planned for Spain, Germany and the UK to improve access to Microsoft’s AI and cloud solutions MARKETWATCH 16 Brad Smith and Olaf Scholz, chancellor of Germany, agreed the details of Microsoft’s largest investment in its 40-year history in Germany Photo: Microsoft
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