Yes, but the Romans CAN'T build Factional MICs outside of Italy until the Marians. But I do know what the OP is talking about. Even factions that seem to do well tend to not build their non-homeland MICs up. Usually I'll see them build the Regional and/or Factional MIC up if the first level or two yields some sort of unit, but no more. If they won't get much of anything until Level 3+ they tend to not build at all. I also think that the AI bases its building on its pre-scripted money income, so it seems to take awhile.