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Arthur hayes: how ai driven depression will boost bitcoin

Arthur Hayes | AI-Driven Job Loss and Bitcoin Boom?

By

Michael Petrov

Feb 18, 2026, 06:40 PM

Edited By

Amina Rahman

2 minutes reading time

Graph showing Bitcoin price rising with AI symbols in the background

AI's impact on the job market is already a hot topic, with heads turning at predictions made by notable figures. Arthur Hayes, a prominent voice in the crypto community, recently stated that the rise of artificial intelligence could lead to a recession, but he believes this might ultimately benefit Bitcoin.

The Controversy Unfolds

In a lively discussion, users have reacted to Hayes' claims with a mix of skepticism and sarcasm. Some argue that job losses due to AI will push people toward crime, implying they might turn to cryptocurrency like Bitcoin as a financial remedy. Others mock the idea that those who are unemployed would invest in Bitcoin instead of essentials.

"Yeah, because the unemployed will be so flush with cash" echoed one commenter, underscoring the absurdity they perceive in Hayes' assertion.

Key Themes from the Conversations

  1. Job Losses Leading to Crime: Many express a concern that if AI takes away jobs, some individuals might resort to illegal activities, leading them to Bitcoin as a means of transaction.

  2. Critique of Economic Logic: Commenters have pointed out that suggesting the unemployed will invest in Bitcoin seems impractical.

  3. Humor in Despair: The discussions reflect a bitter humor about the effects of AI, as people feel threatened by potential unemployment.

Insightful Quotes from Users

  • "AI takes jobs - - > More people turn to crime - - > Then they buy Bitcoin to help with the crimeing. This is good for Bitcoin.โ€

  • "Lol cope harder butters" summarizes a common sentiment that Hayes' take is overly optimistic.

Sentiment Analysis

Overall, user responses display skepticism and a sense of dark humor regarding the implications of AI on employment and the subsequent benefits for Bitcoin.

Key Points to Remember

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ A number of participants question the logic behind investing in Bitcoin once employed and financial stability are in jeopardy.

  • ๐Ÿ“‰ Many view Hayesโ€™ prediction as unrealistic; they doubt any surplus resources will channel into Bitcoin.

  • ๐Ÿค” The discussion emphasizes a tension between technological advancement and a grounded assessment of its societal impacts.

In summary, while Hayes envisions a Bitcoin boom through adversity, the prevailing sentiment among people showcases a more critical outlook on the current reality of job displacement by AI.

Looking Down the Road

Experts estimate a significant increase in economic instability as AI continues to displace jobs. Around 30% of positions in vulnerable sectors could vanish by 2028, pushing some people to explore alternative income streams, including cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. While Hayes predicts a potential Bitcoin boom in this scenario, many analysts argue that the more likely outcome is a rise in financial desperation rather than a flood of investment into crypto, with current societal trends suggesting only a small fraction of displaced workers may venture into this digital currency market for financial relief.

A Lesson from the Dust Bowl

Similar to how the Dust Bowl forced farmers to migrate in search of work and stability, one might argue that job losses from AI could lead to a modern-day exodus of individuals seeking new opportunities. Back in the 1930s, those affected turned to various means for survival, often resulting in innovative yet desperate solutions. As uncertain conditions drove people to adapt, a parallel today could see those impacted by AI pivot to underground economies or alternative currencies, showing that, while challenges loom, people have always found ways to navigate through hardship.