AI Data Center Build

Nokia reported first-quarter 2026 results on April 23 showing 12% year-over-year growth in network infrastructure sales, driven by €1 billion in orders from AI and cloud customers in the Americas. Optical Networks revenue grew 20%, while overall comparable net sales rose 4% to €4.5 billion and operating profit jumped 54% to €281 million, beating analyst estimates. CEO Justin Hotard and Network Infrastructure head David Heard upgraded the full-year 2026 forecast for the division from 6-8% growth to 12-14%, with Optical and IP Networks combined now expected to grow 18-20%.

Core Event: On March 20, 2026, the Trump Administration released the “National Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence,” a legislative blueprint calling on Congress to enact a unified federal AI standard that preempts burdensome state laws, as directed by Executive Order 14365 signed by President Trump on December 11, 2025.[6][8] This industry-friendly push, influenced by David Sacks, emphasizes deregulation to accelerate AI innovation, infrastructure like data centers, and U.S. dominance over China, while carving out exceptions for state powers on child safety, fraud, consumer protection, and zoning.[6][7]