Spanish Tech Leaders: AI Can Transform, But Can’t Feel, Lead or Truly Understand

Artificial intelligence (AI) has moved beyond the lab and is now reshaping industries like energy, retail and utilities in Spain and around the world. 

At a recent panel in Madrid, three senior executives from Microsoft, Carrefour Spain and Iberdrola discussed where AI stands today—and what it will never be able to do. 

They noted that while companies are rapidly adopting AI—one expert said if you’re not doing so yet, you’re already behind—AI still struggles with trust, data security and real-world deployment. 

One major challenge: cybersecurity and data protection. About 40% of Spaniards believe companies do not safeguard their data properly; industry leaders say they invest heavily, yet admit no system is foolproof. 

When it comes to what AI cannot do, all three agreed: it cannot feel emotion, lead empathetically, or replace uniquely human creativity and judgement. As one put it: “AI can build the Taj Mahal—but it will never know what it means to love the person who builds it.” 

They also warned that Europe, and particularly Spain, may fall behind the US and China in AI investment and deployment unless it boosts ambition and innovation.