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The Multi-Trillion-Dollar Energy Race

September 8, 2026 · 12 min

Show notes

Markets are fixating on the billions being invested in AI. But a second massive investment story related to energy is emerging and investors need to pay attention.

In this episode of Barclays Brief, host Patrick Coffey speaks with Harry Mateer, Head of Americas FICC Research at Barclays, about why energy could become one of the defining macro themes of the coming decade. As energy security concerns persist, economies electrify and AI accelerates demand for power, the world must build and maintain multiple energy systems at once, requiring investment on a scale markets may be underestimating.

Mateer explains why demand is growing across virtually every major energy source, why annual energy investment could reach roughly $3.6 trillion, and how a global shift towards resilience and reliability is changing the way governments, companies and investors think about energy. The discussion explores which regions are best positioned for this new era, the implications for inflation, and why energy can be viewed as a growth opportunity rather than a traditional value sector.

For investors, the global energy race is about far more than oil, gas or renewables. It is a multi-trillion-dollar competition for capital, infrastructure and strategic advantage that could reshape the global economy for decades to come.

Clients can read more on Barclays Live:

•The global energy race: Energy in the age of fragmentation

Listeners can also explore the topic further:


Important Content Disclosures

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