AI stocks hammered by midterm shock as data center buildout becomes a 'war of attrition'

AI infrastructure stocks sold off sharply after the midterm elections, with the data center buildout increasingly described as a "war of attrition" as high interest rates, heavy capital spending and uncertain returns weigh on the trade. The rout hit a sector already under pressure, compounding losses across companies tied to AI computing and data center construction. The scale of capital commitments has raised questions about whether returns will justify the spending. Investors are watching for signs of whether hyperscalers and other buyers will sustain or trim their buildout plans.