Bloomberg.com · 25 Oct, 09:28 · Artificial Intelligence briefing

Apollo’s Slok Says AI Has Delivered Zero Payoff Outside of Tech

Apollo Global Management’s chief investment officer, Scott Slok, recently stated that artificial intelligence has generated no tangible financial returns for sectors beyond the technology industry.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

Apollo Global Management’s chief investment officer, Scott Slok, recently stated that artificial intelligence has generated no tangible financial returns for sectors beyond the technology industry. This assertion, reported by Bloomberg, challenges the prevailing narrative of immediate, widespread AI profitability. It suggests that while tech firms may see gains, traditional industries are yet to realise significant value from AI integration. The comment highlights a potential disconnect between AI hype and actual economic impact in non-tech businesses, prompting a critical review of current investment and implementation strategies across various professional sectors.

Employer demand for Medical Physics skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

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You must recalibrate your career strategy. The hype cycle is cooling, meaning pure AI enthusiasm is no longer a differentiator. Instead, value now lies in practical application and critical evaluation. You should focus on understanding how AI solves specific business problems rather than just deploying it. Professionals in non-tech sectors must demonstrate they can bridge the gap between technology and operational reality. Prioritise skills in project management and strategic thinking to navigate these uncertain implementations. Do not discard AI, but treat it as a tool requiring rigorous oversight. Develop the ability to assess ROI critically. Your next step is to master the fundamentals of your core industry while gaining enough technical literacy to manage AI projects effectively. This balanced approach ensures you remain relevant and valuable as the market matures beyond the initial excitement.

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Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

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