E34: Follow the AI Chips to the Data Centers
Anne Malone talks with communications services and infrastructure analyst Michael Rollins about doubts that have crept into the markets concerning the pace of demand growth for data centers. A number of factors are spurring these doubts, from lower-cost Large Language Models and supply limitations to uncertainties about the macro environment and tariffs. Michael explains why we’re staying positive on the pace of demand through 2030, notes the difficulties in quantifying that demand, and offers insights into the methodology developed by Citi for estimating demand, which is based on the premise that “the chips have to go somewhere.”
This podcast contains thematic content and is not intended to be investment research. Nor does it constitute financial, economic, legal, tax or accounting advice. This podcast is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any financial instruments. The contents of this podcast are not based on your individual circumstances and should not be relied upon as an assessment of suitability for you of a particular product, security, or transaction. The information in this podcast is based on generally available information and, although obtained from sources believed by Citi to be reliable, its accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed. Past performance is not a guarantee or indication of future results. This podcast may not be copied or distributed, in whole or in part, without the express written consent of Citi. © 2025 Citigroup Global Markets Inc. Member SIPC. All rights reserved. Citi and Citi and Arc Design are trademarks and service marks of Citigroup Inc. or its affiliates and are used and registered throughout the world.
Anne Malone, Head of North America and Latin America Equity Research
Anne Malone was named Head of North America and Latin America Equity Research 2022; promoted from Deputy Director, a role she held since 2018. Anne started at the firm in 1996 as an Analyst covering Medical Technology stocks. She has held several positions since then, in both Equity Research and Citi Asset Management, taking on roles that utilized her analytical, product, and people skills. Prior to joining Citi she was a Medical Device Analyst at Bear Stearns. Anne graduated from the St Leo College with a degree in Finance and a minor in Economics. She is a CFA Charterholder.
Michael Rollins, Communications Services & Infrastructure
Michael Rollins is a Managing Director at Citi Research covering the Communications Services and Communications Infrastructure sectors, including wireless, cable, wireline, fiber, data centers, towers, and satellite. Over the past few years, Michael has published a number of collaborative and thematic research ideas leveraging Citi’s global research platform on topics such as spectrum, the economics of mobile and broadband services, and emerging technologies within the sector. Prior to joining Citi in 2000, Michael covered the Wireless sector at JP Morgan, starting in 1996 as an associate to analyst in 1998.
