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‘The robots are coming:’ Memphis in the middle of the AI boom

By , Daily Memphian Updated: February 17, 2026 4:39 PM CT | Published: February 17, 2026 4:39 PM CT

Memphis is emerging as a pivotal player in the artificial intelligence economy, investment strategist David Waddell told a Greater Memphis Chamber audience Tuesday, Feb. 17, arguing the city is “right in the middle” of a massive national build-out of AI infrastructure.

Waddell, CEO and chief investment strategist at Waddell & Associates, gave the chamber’s annual “State of the Economy” speech at the Memphis Botanic Garden.

He gave a sweeping picture of the national economy and the growth of artificial intelligence.

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David Waddell Greater Memphis Chamber xAI Artificial Intelligence Subscriber Only

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Andy Ashby

Andy Ashby is a veteran reporter with more than 14 years of journalism experience.


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