In a world of economic uncertainty, rising rates, and AI disruption, one thing is clear: tech leaders aren’t pulling back, they’re planning smarter.
That’s the pulse from IDC’s recent webinar on the state of tech spending and strategic planning for 2026. Whether you missed it or want the fast facts, here are five standout moments that unpack where budgets are moving, how buyers are thinking, and why IDC’s insights matter more than ever.
1. Real growth is still there – just look through the inflation lens.
“When you adjust for inflation, you can see that real IT growth remains positive. Companies are still investing — but they’re more cautious and strategic in where the money goes.”
What it means: The market isn’t shrinking, it’s shifting. Decision-makers are moving from “grow at all costs” to “grow with clarity.” IDC’s inflation-adjusted forecasts reveal where that clarity lives.
2. High rate, steady budgets: Tech is no longer discretionary.
“Even as interest rates have risen and borrowing costs go up, we’ve seen IT budgets hold steady. That’s because technology has become foundational, not discretionary.”
What it means: Budgets aren’t breaking under pressure, they’re being reallocated with purpose. Foundational tech like cloud, data, and AI are becoming immune to cuts.
3. Today’s breakthroughs started with the third platform.
“The Third Platform — cloud, mobile, social, and big data — was the foundation for the wave of innovation we’re seeing today. Every breakthrough you see now stands on that groundwork.”
What it means: If you want to understand where we’re headed, start with how we got here. IDC’s long-range view helps you map innovation back to its roots and ahead to what’s next.
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4. Generative AI: Budget disruptor. Acceleration engine.
“Generative AI is already reshaping IT spending. We’re seeing budgets shift toward data platforms, model development, and governance, and it’s accelerating faster than any previous technology cycle.”
What it means: GenAI isn’t coming; it’s here, and it’s redefining every spending curve. IDC breaks down where the money’s going, and how leaders are reallocating resources to stay competitive.
5. The IT market just hit a trillion-dollar quarter, for the first time ever.
“For the first time ever, the IT market hit a trillion dollars in a single quarter. That’s a milestone and much of that momentum is being driven by AI investments.”
What it means: This isn’t just hype. AI is driving the biggest IT investment cycle in history. The leaders shaping 2026 aren’t just watching the wave, they’re riding it.
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