Fink Says Data Center Halt Could Trigger U.S. Recession

BlackRock Chief Executive Larry Fink said a U.S. moratorium on data-center construction would lead to a recession, arguing that investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure has become an important source of economic activity. His warning was conditional: the sources report no nationwide halt to construction or recession underway. Fink made the remarks in a CNBC interview on October 14, as data centers face growing scrutiny over their effects on nearby communities, energy use and the environment. He said spending on facilities, computing equipment and power infrastructure supports business investment and jobs, including in construction and technology manufacturing. He also argued that stopping projects could weaken that activity. Public concern is reflected in a Pew Research Center survey. The share of U.S. adults who viewed data centers’ environmental effects as mostly harmful rose to 54% in August from 39% in January. The survey also found increased concern about effects on household energy costs and quality of life near the facilities. Fink disputed much of the criticism, describing it as misinformation and saying data centers create jobs.