AI Could Be Turbulent but Also Boost Bitcoin, NYDIG

Bitcoin will see a boost if artificial intelligence disrupts the labor market or causes volatility that would prompt central banks to ease their monetary policy, says Greg Cipolaro, the research lead at crypto services company NYDIG.

Cipolaro said in a research note on Friday that AI could likely be seen as a “general-purpose technology” such as electricity, and the macroeconomic effects it would have on employment, economic growth and risk appetite will affect Bitcoin (BTC).

“If AI-driven growth occurs alongside expanding liquidity and contained real rates, that backdrop can be supportive for Bitcoin,” Cipolaro said. “But if stronger growth lifts real yields, tightens policy, and reduces the need for monetary accommodation, Bitcoin may face headwinds.”

“Conversely, if AI generates labor disruption or volatility that prompts fiscal expansion and easier monetary policy, the resulting liquidity impulse would likely favor Bitcoin,” he added.

The economy is already seeing the impact of the technology, as companies are undertaking mass layoffs fuelled by AI, as billions of dollars in investments pour into companies creating AI models.

Jack Dorsey said on Friday that his payments company Block would cut roughly 40% of its staff due to AI, and predicted that many more companies would soon follow suit.

AI transition may be volatile and uneven

Goldman Sachs’ research arm claimed in a report in August that widespread AI adoption could displace up to 7% of the US workforce, but would also likely create new job opportunities.

Related: Crypto VC Paradigm expands into AI, robotics with $1.5B fund: WSJ

Cipolaro acknowledged the transition will “pose challenges,” requiring workflow redesign, new skills, and additional investment. Still, he predicts AI will follow the same “historical pattern” as previous technological advancements.

“The implication is not that disruption will be painless, but that the equilibrium response to new technology has historically been integration, not obsolescence. Society’s response to AI will likely follow the same pattern,” he said.

“Firms that integrate it effectively will widen margins and productivity gaps. Workers who adapt will enhance their relevance. Those who resist may fall behind,” Cipolaro added.