The governor of the Bank of England has warned that artificial intelligence could play a role in a global economic downturn, pointing to volatility associated with energy shocks arising from the US-Iran war.
The warning places AI among the factors being watched by central bankers as potential sources of instability for the wider economy. The comments link concerns about the rapid development and use of artificial intelligence with pressures in energy markets, which can affect businesses, consumers and financial conditions internationally.
According to the supplied material, the governor referred to AI’s “volatility” in connection with energy shocks from the US-Iran war. The remarks suggest concern that disruption in energy supply or prices could interact with technology-driven market movements in a way that increases economic risk.
The Bank of England is responsible for monetary policy and financial stability in the UK, meaning comments from its governor are closely followed by investors, businesses and policymakers. A warning about a possible worldwide downturn indicates that the issue is being considered not only as a technology matter, but also as a macroeconomic risk.
No further details were provided in the supplied material about the timing of the comments, any proposed policy response, or the specific mechanisms by which AI could contribute to a downturn. The latest known position is that the governor has publicly raised concern about the potential economic consequences of AI-related volatility alongside energy shocks.
