In a candid holiday wish list for the business world, Business Insider’s Dan DeFrancesco has put AI return on investment (ROI) at the top of his 2026 demands. While acknowledging that any 2025 recap or 2026 outlook is “legally required” to mention artificial intelligence, DeFrancesco isn’t interested in debating AI’s merits or drawbacks—he simply wants to see tangible returns on the massive AI investments flooding the tech sector.
The commentary reflects growing concerns across the business community about the escalating costs of AI projects without clear evidence of revenue generation. DeFrancesco admits his “palms get a little sweaty thinking about the ever-growing tech budgets” being poured into AI initiatives. This sentiment captures a broader anxiety in the market as companies continue to allocate enormous resources to AI development and implementation without demonstrable financial returns.
The piece comes at a critical juncture for the AI industry, as 2024 saw unprecedented investment in AI infrastructure, tools, and talent. Major tech companies have committed billions to AI research and development, while enterprises across all sectors have rushed to integrate AI capabilities into their operations. However, the gap between investment and measurable business outcomes has become increasingly apparent, leading to questions about whether the current AI spending spree is sustainable.
DeFrancesco’s wish for AI ROI isn’t about calling an AI bubble, but rather a plea for validation that these investments will translate into actual revenue generation. The request underscores a key challenge facing the AI industry in 2026: proving value beyond the hype. As companies face pressure from shareholders and stakeholders to justify their AI expenditures, the demand for concrete metrics and financial returns will only intensify.
This perspective represents a shift in the AI conversation from excitement about potential to demands for proven business value. As we enter 2026, the AI industry faces mounting pressure to deliver on its promises and demonstrate that the massive capital investments are generating real, measurable returns for businesses and their bottom lines.
Key Quotes
I’m legally required to start every 2025 recap or 2026 look-ahead by mentioning artificial intelligence.
Dan DeFrancesco, Business Insider columnist, humorously acknowledges the ubiquity of AI in business discussions while setting up his main point about the need for demonstrable returns on AI investments.
I’m not screaming about an AI bubble, but my palms get a little sweaty thinking about the ever-growing tech budgets.
DeFrancesco expresses measured concern about escalating AI spending without explicitly calling it a bubble, reflecting the cautious optimism many business observers feel about the current state of AI investment.
So, give us all some relief by showing that these AI tools are going to generate revenue.
The columnist’s direct plea to the AI industry encapsulates the growing demand from the business community for proof that massive AI investments will translate into actual revenue generation and business value.
Our Take
DeFrancesco’s wish list item perfectly encapsulates the AI industry’s defining challenge for 2026: converting promise into profit. While the piece is lighthearted in tone, it reflects serious concerns percolating throughout the business world. We’re witnessing a crucial transition from AI as a speculative investment to AI as a business necessity that must justify its costs.
The timing is significant. As AI infrastructure costs continue to climb—from computing power to talent acquisition—companies can no longer rely on future potential to justify present spending. The market is demanding proof points, case studies, and hard numbers demonstrating ROI.
This shift will likely separate AI winners from losers in 2026. Companies that have focused on practical, revenue-generating AI applications will thrive, while those pursuing AI for its own sake may face difficult reckonings. The call for AI ROI isn’t pessimistic—it’s a necessary reality check that will ultimately strengthen the industry by focusing resources on what actually works.
Why This Matters
This commentary matters because it captures a critical inflection point for the AI industry. After years of explosive growth and investment, the market is demanding proof that AI delivers real business value. The call for AI ROI reflects broader concerns among investors, executives, and analysts about whether current AI spending levels are sustainable without corresponding revenue generation.
The significance extends beyond individual companies to the entire AI ecosystem. If major AI investments fail to show returns in 2026, we could see a pullback in funding, slower adoption rates, and increased scrutiny of AI projects. Conversely, demonstrated ROI could validate current investment levels and accelerate AI integration across industries.
This also signals a maturation of the AI market. The industry is moving from a phase of experimentation and possibility to one of accountability and results. Companies that can demonstrate clear ROI will thrive, while those that cannot may face difficult questions from stakeholders about their AI strategies and spending priorities.
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Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/bi-today-newsletter-business-wish-list-ai-roi-pe-2025-12