Blockchain is often seen as a niche technology, but it could become a major factor in shaping the global job market by 2030. A recent report shows this tech has the potential to create over 1.5 million new jobs in the coming years. This growth could be on par with or even greater than the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).
Many people experience happiness after landing a job in blockchain. In a nutshell, blockchain has the power to generate more than 1.5 million jobs by 2030, competing with AI. Proper rules, like the European MiCA regulation, are needed to speed up blockchain adoption and job creation. Funding for blockchain is expected to grow, but there's a $75 billion gap compared to AI. Salaries for specialized blockchain roles may even surpass those in AI, especially in certain regions. Demand for blockchain skills is highest in North America (40%) and Asia-Pacific (35%).
Currently, blockchain employs about 15,000 to 20,000 people globally. This is much fewer than the 1 million jobs linked to AI. But forecasts say that if blockchain keeps up with AI, it could add over 1.5 million jobs by 2030. This would make it a strong part of the digital economy, driven by its use in finance, healthcare, and shipping.
One major factor behind this growth is clear regulation. Initiatives like the EU's MiCA law on cryptocurrencies could give a solid base for blockchain businesses. This would boost confidence for investors and companies. Big names like JPMorgan and Visa are already using blockchain in their projects. As more firms follow, job creation could speed up.
The report also highlights a need for more funding. In 2023, AI startups received over $100 billion in investments. Blockchain startups only got about $25 billion. More money would help improve blockchain tech and create more specialized jobs. Some roles in blockchain, such as smart contract auditors, could pay better than AI workers. Salaries for blockchain jobs now range from $115,000 to $191,000 a year. As adoption grows, these may rise above $250,000, rivaling top AI engineers.
Most blockchain jobs are found in North America, which accounts for about 40%, and in Asia-Pacific, which makes up roughly 35%. These regions are leaders in innovation and have friendly policies for cryptocurrencies. Countries like Singapore and Vietnam are expected to continue playing a key role in hiring blockchain experts.
Right now, blockchain is at a turning point. With better rules, more funding, and broader use, it could soon rival AI in creating jobs worldwide. It might even have its big moment around 2025, similar to ChatGPT. This technology holds huge promise and could change many important industries around the globe by 2030.