Artificial intelligence is increasingly reshaping the global workforce. While fears about job losses continue to grow, some voices in the crypto industry argue that digital assets could offer an alternative path to financial independence.
Changpeng Zhao (CZ), co-founder of Binance, recently sparked debate with a short but provocative post on X. His message was simple: AI will make many jobs obsolete, while crypto could make traditional employment unnecessary. The timing was notable, as world leaders gathered in Davos to discuss the future of work.
CZ’s Message: AI Disrupts Jobs, Crypto Creates Freedom
According to CZ, artificial intelligence is rapidly automating tasks that once required human labor. At the same time, he believes long-term crypto holders could achieve early retirement by building wealth outside traditional financial systems.
“AI will take your job. Crypto can give you freedom.”
As always, CZ added the disclaimer that this was not financial advice. Still, the statement resonated with many who are already experiencing AI-driven changes in their workplaces.
AI Is Transforming Work Faster Than Expected
Three years after generative AI entered the mainstream, its impact goes far beyond productivity tools. A recent World Economic Forum (WEF) report shows that companies are redesigning entire workflows with AI at their core.
- In finance, AI-powered audits that once took weeks are now completed in days.
- In healthcare, automated systems perform tasks in seconds that previously took half an hour.
- In claims and legal services, AI accelerates document recognition and processing.
The result? Millions in cost savings for companies — and growing pressure on traditional roles.
Mid-Level Jobs Face the Greatest Risk
Contrary to popular belief, AI is not only threatening entry-level positions. The WEF highlights that mid-level roles are especially vulnerable.
AI tools allow junior employees to handle complex tasks much faster, reducing the need for multiple management layers. Some organizations are even experimenting with AI systems that appear alongside humans in organizational charts, complete with assigned responsibilities.
This shift makes it harder to follow traditional career paths and challenges the long-term security of stable employment.
Why Crypto Is Seen as an Alternative
Within the crypto community, digital assets have long been viewed as a means of building wealth outside conventional systems.
The timing of CZ’s comments is significant. The crypto market has been gaining momentum due to:
- Institutional adoption
- Tokenization of real-world assets
- Broader real-world use cases
Early adopters who held through market cycles have, in some cases, achieved substantial gains. CZ even asked his followers how many had already retired thanks to crypto.
Davos Takes a More Cautious Approach
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, the tone is far more measured. Leaders emphasize responsible AI deployment, reskilling, and inclusion rather than rapid wealth accumulation through investments.
More than 25 major companies, including Cisco and ServiceNow, have committed to helping millions of people gain AI and digital skills. Their goal is to reach 120 million individuals by 2030.
Skills, Trust, and Human Oversight Remain Essential
Experts agree that trust is critical for large-scale AI adoption. In sectors like banking and healthcare, AI systems must be:
- Transparent
- Explainable
- Closely monitored by humans
The consensus in Davos is clear: AI is here to stay. The real challenge lies in ensuring that people are not left behind as technology accelerates.
Final Thoughts
While crypto advocates see digital assets as a potential escape from job insecurity, global leaders remain focused on adaptation, education, and trust. Whether financial freedom comes from crypto, new skills, or a mix of both, one thing is certain: the future of work is changing faster than ever.
