AI's Physical Footprint Spreads From Cloud Centers to Humanoid Robots

The artificial intelligence gold rush is no longer just about software—it is aggressively spilling over into physical infrastructure, power generation, and robotics. Look no further than SharonAI Holdings (SHAZ.US), which is busy building out "AI factories" and scalable cloud GPU infrastructure. Despite reporting massive non-cash losses in its second quarter of 2026, the company successfully delivered its AI cloud deployment for a global tech client, sending its stock on a volatile ride year-to-date.

But massive computing power requires actual electricity. That is where residential solar giant Sunrun (RUN.US) enters the picture. In an innovative pivot, Sunrun recently struck a strategic agreement with Voltus to leverage its residential solar and battery storage networks to provide much-needed power capacity for energy-hungry AI data centers. Meanwhile, the physical hardware required for autonomous tech is seeing a similar bump. Vishay Precision Group (VPG.US) just landed a supplier nomination and a seven-figure order from a humanoid robot customer, helping to offset short-term pain from currency headwinds and ERP-related shipment delays.

Physical AI is also advancing rapidly on the road. Hesai Group (HSAI.US) continues to dominate the global automotive LiDAR space, recently securing a supplier partnership with Mercedes-Benz for its L3 autonomous models, building on its momentum as the first in its industry to achieve full-year GAAP profitability back in 2025.

Also in the hopper:

• Network security upgrades: Allot Ltd. (ALLT.US) is looking past the current AI hype, launching a Post-Quantum Communications Alliance in mid-2026 to protect network data in the impending quantum computing era, while also raising its revenue outlook.
• A new streaming niche: Globavend Holdings (GVH.US), traditionally known for e-commerce logistics, is venturing into the AI-generated micro-drama space through a new global distribution pact with DramaBox.
• Traditional energy moves: Fresh off its merger with Coterra Energy, Devon Energy (DVN.US) reached a final investment decision on the Solitude pipeline system, signaling sustained capital deployment in the Delaware Basin.
• Safe haven plays: The iShares Gold Trust Micro (IAUM.US) continues to offer low-cost exposure to gold bullion, tracking steady institutional interest amid broader tech volatility.
• SPAC liquidations: The blank-check vehicle Velocity Acquisition Corp. (VELO.US) has officially liquidated, marking another quiet end in the SPAC market.
• Under the radar: Keel Capital (KEEL.US) has maintained a quiet profile recently, with no major operational updates or corporate developments disclosed in the current period.