In short
A discussion of an MIT study claiming 95% of generative AI investments don’t produce positive returns, and whether this signals an AI bubble or a long-term shift.
Guests
No specific guests are named; the episode references “a series of experts” featured in an HBR Executive newsletter.
Key claims
Some experts argue generative AI is overhyped and a bubble may burst; others say it’s a long-term game where success depends on spending wisely, not just spending first or most.
Notable examples
The episode cites the MIT study statistic (95%) and frames the “winners” as companies linking AI investment to core strategy with patience.
Written by AI. May contain mistakes. Listen to the episode to check what was said.
Chapters
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0:30 to 1:57
A discussion on the implications of a study revealing poor returns on generative AI investments.
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Transcript
Automatic transcript. May contain errors.0:28This episode is brought to you by Google Chrome. of America for a reason. With SUVs made to move with your rhythm. The versatile Equinox tackles your entire day. The spacious Traverse fits your crew and your whole weekend. And tracks bring style with value you can count on. All infused with tech that has your back. So your drive always hits the right chord. Chevrolet. Together, let's drive. So there was a recent study that came out of MIT that's gotten a lot of attention. It seemed to suggest that 95 % of investments in generative AI were not yielding any positive return. That, needless to say, has executives wondering, are we in an AI bubble?
1:10And if so, what do we do about the investments we've made to date? In the most recent HBR executive newsletter, I asked a series of experts, what do they think? Where are we right now? And some feel that, yes, this technology is overhyped and there's a bubble that's about to burst. Most though, I think, view this as a long-term game. So the winners won't necessarily be the people who have spent the most or who have spent first, but those who spend most wisely. The bottom line is this. Genitive AI will remake the business world as we know it, but it won't happen overnight. The companies that succeed will be the ones that have focus, that have patience and that really tie their AI investments to their core strategy.
1:53For a full breakdown, please subscribe to HBR Executive.
From the publisher
Your AI Investments Haven't Paid Off. Should You Tap the Breaks?
2 Sep 2025
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A new MIT study suggests 95% of generative AI investments aren’t paying off. Are we in a bubble—or just playing the long game?
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