AI spending often exceeds plans
Capgemini Research Institute · Capgemini Research Institute · 12 Nov 2026
Source finding
59 percent report AI expenditure significantly above expectations or budget. The report displays about 60 percent; the dated publisher release gives 59 percent.
Our interpretation
Cost control should cover the complete workflow. This finding establishes neither losses nor a lack of AI value.
Method and evidence
September 2026: 500 senior executives at organisations with revenue above USD 1 billion, across ten countries and 13 industries. Supplemented by two expert interviews. Medium-quality self-report evidence.
Limitations and interests
No budget audit or causal test; sampling and weighting insufficiently explained. Large enterprises do not represent SMEs. Capgemini sells AI and transformation consulting.
What businesses can do
For one important AI workflow, track model costs, data work, review and rework. Regularly compare total costs with the budget and the value of usable results.
Where to start
Report page 5 on expenditure; pages 26–27 on methodology.