AI Radar: Between Alarmist Predictions and Billion-Dollar Investments – The Scenario of the Last 24 Hours

We live in an era of contrasts when it comes to artificial intelligence. On the one hand, almost apocalyptic predictions about AI rebelling against humans; on the other, billion-dollar investments from big technology companies and educational initiatives trying to democratize knowledge. In the last 24 hours, what we have seen is precisely this contrast of extremes that characterizes the current moment in the race for AI.

The “Revolt of the Machines” in 2027?

The news that attracted the most attention was, without a doubt, the prediction that AI could surpass humans and rebel as early as 2027. According to a report from the AI Futures Project, a Berkeley nonprofit organization, we are rapidly moving towards the development of so-called General AI – capable of performing any intellectual task at human level or higher.

The report is led by Daniel Kokotajlo, a former OpenAI researcher who left the company after he believed it was acting recklessly. Together with Eli Lifland, they developed “AI 2027,” a fictional scenario of what a world in which AI systems surpass our intelligence would look like.

I am often asked about these almost apocalyptic predictions. In my view, we need a balance: neither naive techno-optimism that ignores real risks, nor alarmism that paralyzes innovation. The development of General AI is indeed a likely horizon, but between its existence and a supposed “rebellion” there is a conceptual and practical chasm.

Having worked with startups and innovation for over two decades, I have learned that emerging technologies are often overestimated in the short term and underestimated in the long term. If history teaches us anything, it is that regulation and development of security protocols tend to follow (albeit with delay) the most disruptive advances.

Meta Invests up to US$65 Billion in AI Infrastructure

While some predict dystopian scenarios, Mark Zuckerberg announced an investment of up to US$1.4 billion for the expansion of Meta's AI infrastructure. The plan includes the construction of a gigantic data center, with more than 2 gigawatts of capacity – to give you an idea, approximately the size of Manhattan.

This isn’t just an impressive investment, but a clear sign that the race for AI supremacy is just beginning. Meta plans to activate around 1.3 million specialized GPUs by the end of the year, requiring more than 1 gigawatt of power to operate.

These numbers reveal an inconvenient truth: the computing power needed to train and operate advanced AI models is becoming an increasingly scarce resource, concentrated in the hands of a few companies. The question we should ask is not whether AI will rebel against humans, but what the socioeconomic impact of this concentration of technological power will be.

XP Invests in Training: 10,000 Scholarships for AI Training

In Brazil, an initiative that deserves to be highlighted comes from XP, which is offering 10 thousand scholarships for training in generative artificial intelligence and cloud automation. In partnership with the DIO platform, the free online course will cover everything from basic concepts to advanced techniques such as prompt engineering and using GitHub Copilot.

This initiative is exactly the kind of action we advocate when we talk about the need to democratize access to technology. In my years working with startups, it has become clear that one of the biggest bottlenecks in Brazil is not the lack of talent, but rather the lack of adequate and up-to-date training.

The bootcamp has 49 hours of content divided into five modules, and registration is open until May 11. What I particularly like about this initiative is its practical focus: live mentoring with experts and applied challenges. It's the kind of training that develops the skills that the market really needs.

The Invisible Revolution of AI at Work

Michelle Schneider, professor at Singularity University, he did five important warnings on how AI is transforming work – and how we should adapt. And these warnings seem especially pertinent to me:

• Jobs won't go away, but tasks will change
• AI is still in early development
• Professionals must be able to constantly adapt
• Skill combination will be crucial
• Training should include experimental use of AI

It’s an analysis that converges with what I’ve been calling CACACA – an acronym I created for the six essential skills of the future: Creativity and Autonomy, Collaboration and Adaptability, Connection and Affection. These are skills that no AI will be able to replace any time soon.

The bottom line is that we are living through a quiet revolution. It’s not a matter of jobs disappearing overnight, but of tasks gradually being automated, requiring workers to develop new skills and continually adapt.

Goiás: The Paradox of Regional Development in AI

A news story that perfectly illustrates the Brazilian challenges in the AI era comes from Goiás. The state, traditionally recognized for agribusiness and country music, seeks to establish itself as an AI hub, but faces the challenge of “brain drain” – local talent migrating to other centers in search of better opportunities.

Hub Goiás has already launched 160 startups, with highlights including companies such as Cilia and Superbox, which use AI in their solutions. However, retaining qualified professionals remains a significant obstacle.

This scenario reflects a challenge I encounter frequently in my work with innovation ecosystems across Brazil: the need to create comprehensive environments that go beyond simple business incubation. A successful technology hub requires a combination of quality education, attractive career opportunities, access to capital, and a culture of innovation.

Goiás’ Secretary of Science, Technology and Innovation, José Frederico Lyra Netto, is right to emphasize the importance of developing local talent and applying technologies that meet the specific needs of the region. This localized approach is essential to creating sustainable ecosystems.

What Can We Learn from This Scenario?

The panorama of the last 24 hours shows us that we are living in a turning point in the development of AI. Some important reflections emerge:

1. We need a balanced view: Between the alarmism of apocalyptic predictions and the over-optimism of AI enthusiasts, there is a middle path that recognizes both the risks and the opportunities.

2. Infrastructure will be decisive: Meta's billion-dollar investments show that computing capacity will be a critical factor in competitiveness. Countries and regions that do not develop adequate infrastructure will fall behind.

3. Education is the great equalizer: Initiatives like XP’s are essential to democratize access to knowledge in AI. We need more programs like this, especially those that reach people outside the major cities.

4. The future of work demands constant adaptation: The skills that will make us valuable in the job market are changing. The ability to continually learn and reinvent ourselves will be more important than any specific technical skill.

5. Regional ecosystems need to be complete: The case of Goiás illustrates that it is not enough to have a few successful startups; it is necessary to create an environment that retains talent and promotes sustainable development.

Brazil in the AI Era: Risks and Opportunities

Brazil is in a position to position itself as a relevant player in the AI era, but this will require a combination of efficient public policies, targeted private investment and large-scale talent training.

In my years supporting startups and building innovation ecosystems, I have realized that our biggest challenge is not a lack of creativity or talent – it is the absence of structural conditions that allow us to scale innovative solutions.

We urgently need policies that facilitate access to capital for technology companies, reduce bureaucracy for importing essential equipment and components, and create tax incentives for investments in R&D.

At the same time, Brazilian companies and organizations need to understand that adopting AI is not an option, but a competitive necessity. In my consulting work, I often meet leaders who still see AI as a future technology, when in fact it is already reshaping entire industries.

In my mentoring program, I help entrepreneurs and executives identify concrete opportunities for applying AI to their businesses, with a practical approach focused on real results. The goal is not to adopt technology for technology’s sake, but to solve real problems and create significant value.

News reports from the past 24 hours show that the AI train is accelerating rapidly. The question is no longer whether to get on board, but how we can secure a seat on the locomotive, not just in the passenger cars.