A Morgan Stanley report states that rising energy security concerns triggered by geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions are set to drive a USD 5.5 trillion investment cycle across Asia over the next five years, as governments and companies seek to reduce dependence on energy imports and strengthen domestic supply chains. The report said the planned investments could help lower Asia's energy imports from 36 per cent of total consumption to 29 per cent by 2030. According to the report, energy shortages have contributed to plastics supply constraints, lower steel and nickel production, disruptions in air travel and tiered power pricing for data centres, and oil supply concerns from the conflict involving Iran have prompted measures such as four-day workweeks. "We are at a critical inflection point where energy, AI and security converge into a once-in-a-generation investment cycle," said Mayank Maheshwari, who leads Morgan Stanley's energy and utilities coverage in India and Southeast Asia. The report estimates the USD 5.5 trillion investment requirement comprises USD 4.3 trillion of already announced capital expenditure and an additional USD 1.2 trillion needed through the end of the decade.