Coinbase CEO Warns: “Adopt AI or Lose Your Job” – Engineers Fired for Resisting AI

The wave of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries worldwide, and Coinbase, the global crypto exchange giant, has taken a tough stance. CEO Brian Armstrong has made it clear: engineers who fail to adopt AI tools will not have a place in the company.

Big Disclosure on Podcast

Speaking on the Cheeky Pint podcast, Armstrong revealed that Coinbase is aggressively integrating AI into its technology workflows. “Those who adopt AI will stay, and the rest will have to leave,” he said, confirming that some engineers were already fired for refusing to adapt.

One-Week Deadline: “No AI, No Job”

According to Armstrong, engineers were given just one week to learn and start using AI tools such as GitHub Copilot and Cursor. A strict message was posted on the company’s Slack channel, warning that failure to comply would lead to an accountability meeting on Saturday.

During the meeting, engineers were asked to explain why they hadn’t adopted AI. Those without solid reasons were immediately let go.

How AI Changed Coinbase’s Work

• Currently, 33% of Coinbase’s code is written by AI, a number Armstrong aims to push to 50% by the end of the quarter.

• The company also runs monthly “AI Speed Runs”, where engineers showcase how they are leveraging AI to increase efficiency.

• However, Armstrong stressed that AI will always operate under human supervision, especially since Coinbase handles financial transactions.

AI Pressure Across the Globe

Coinbase’s bold move reflects a broader industry trend. A McKinsey & Company report predicts that AI could add $4.4 trillion to the global economy by 2030.

For tech professionals, the message is clear: AI is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Those unwilling to adapt risk being left behind, as Coinbase engineers who resisted AI adoption have already discovered the hard way.