Jeff Bezos likens AI boom to the 1990s biotech bubble, says society will benefit anyway

May 20, 2026
A banana peel on a wooden table in a dimly lit lab, with soil samples in the background.

In a recent interview, Jeff Bezos addressed concerns regarding a potential artificial intelligence (AI) bubble, likening the current investment climate to the 1990s biotech boom.

Bezos emphasized that despite fears of a bubble, the influx of investment in AI is likely to yield significant benefits for society and technological advancement. He reassured investors and policymakers that even if the current enthusiasm leads to some failures, the overall impact will be positive, as successful innovations will outweigh unsuccessful ventures. Major tech companies, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, are projected to invest over $700 billion in AI infrastructure this year, underscoring the scale of this movement.

Drawing parallels to the biotech bubble, Bezos noted that while investors may have faced losses during that era, society reaped rewards through advancements in medicine and science. He acknowledged that the rush into AI funding means that not all projects will be viable, but the potential for groundbreaking developments remains high.

Bezos also highlighted his ongoing focus on AI across his ventures, including Amazon and Blue Origin, as well as his newly established company, Project Prometheus. Launched with $6.2 billion in funding, this initiative aims to create AI models for practical applications in various industries, such as manufacturing and drug discovery. By positioning Project Prometheus as a standalone entity, Bezos aims to foster a dedicated environment for innovation in the fast-paced AI sector.

Read the original article: CNBC TV18