If you’ve been following financial news, you’ve likely noticed a shift in how the media talks about artificial intelligence. Earlier this year, AI headlines were full of optimism and breakthroughs. Recently, though, the tone has cooled. Terms like “AI fatigue” and “disappointing results” are showing up more often, and the conversation feels more cautious.

That shift is showing up in investor sentiment, too. A recent Bank of America survey found that 45% of fund managers now say an “AI bubble” is the biggest risk to markets — up from just 11% two months earlier.* When attitudes swing that fast, emotion is playing a major role.

Putting Today’s Headlines in Context

But this pattern is familiar. Every major innovation cycle follows a similar arc: excitement surges, expectations run ahead of reality, and eventually the mood cools. Then people begin to wonder whether the enthusiasm was overblown. None of this means the underlying innovation is failing; it simply means expectations are being recalibrated.

What matters more is whether businesses are making real progress. And many companies tied to AI continue to report meaningful earnings growth. Fundamentals like that are what ultimately support stock prices. It’s a very different picture from past periods when fears of a “tech bubble” were based on speculation rather than actual results.

What This Means for Your Plan

This is why investment decisions shouldn’t hinge on short-term narrative shifts. A well-built financial plan is designed to handle enthusiasm, fatigue, and everything in between. Markets will always cycle through emotional phases, but long-term outcomes are driven by discipline and fundamentals, not by the latest headline.

If the recent AI noise has left you feeling uncertain, you’re not alone. If you’d like to talk through how this fits into your plan, or if the headlines are making you second-guess anything, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you stay focused on what truly drives long-term success.

*https://blog.syzgroup.com/syz-the-moment/45-of-fund-managers-surveyed-by-bank-of-america-in-november-said-an-ai-bubble-was-the-biggest-tail-risk-for-markets-spiking-from-just-11-in-september

The Hatlestad Group is an independent wealth management firm based in Edina, Minnesota, primarily serving successful head-of-household women, late-career executives, and pre-retirees. With a tailored approach to fee-only comprehensive wealth management, they empower clients to live out their next chapter with vision, wisdom, and resources, creating a purposeful and meaningful future. They can be reached by phone at (763) 259-3637, via email at info@thehatlestadgroup.com, or by visiting their website at thehatlestadgroup.com.

The information presented is based on sources believed to be reliable and accurate at the time of publication. This material is for educational purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the views of the author, presenter, or affiliated organizations. It should not be construed as investment, tax, legal, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation before making any decisions.