Coinbase Aims to Make AI a Code-Making Co-Worker

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has revealed that approximately 40% of the company’s daily code is now generated by artificial intelligence, with the aim of increasing this figure to over 50% by October 2025. Armstrong emphasized the responsible integration of AI in code development, acknowledging that while not all areas of the business can rely on AI-generated code, the technology has the potential to significantly enhance productivity and streamline development processes. In a post on X, Armstrong stated, “Obviously it needs to be reviewed and understood, and not all areas of the business can use AI-generated code. But we should be using it responsibly as much as we possibly can” [1].

The percentage of AI-generated code at Coinbase has more than doubled since April, according to a chart shared by Armstrong [1]. This shift reflects a broader trend in the tech industry, where companies are increasingly adopting AI-powered coding tools. A report from OpsLevel noted that by June 2025, 94% of tech companies had employees using AI coding assistants, with increased productivity and faster time to market cited as key benefits [2]. Armstrong’s vision aligns with this industry-wide movement, as Coinbase aims to transform its workforce into “AI-Natives” rather than replacing its 4,200 employees with AI [1].

To achieve this goal, Coinbase has mandated the use of AI coding tools such as Copilot, Claude Code, and Cursor across its engineering teams. Armstrong admitted to enforcing this mandate with strict measures, including firing engineers who resisted using these tools and could not justify their decision. “Some people really didn’t like it, by the way, that heavy-handed approach, but I think it did set some clarity at least that we need to lean into this and learn about it,” he stated in a recent interview with John Collison’s “Cheeky Pint” podcast [5].

The CEO also noted that AI is being used beyond the engineering department, with teams in design, product management, and finance leveraging AI for tasks such as forecasting revenue and decision-making. Coinbase has even begun incorporating AI into its internal decision-making processes, with AI inputs treated as one of the participants in meetings and discussions. Armstrong highlighted that the company is experimenting with the extent to which AI can function as a decision-maker, suggesting a potential shift in how businesses operate [5].

Despite the aggressive adoption of AI, Coinbase continues to expand its engineering workforce, with over 150 engineering positions open as of now. Nearly half of the company’s 350 current job openings are for technical roles, with many specifically requiring AI-related skills [1]. The hiring strategy reflects the broader dynamics of the cryptocurrency industry, where AI is attracting both talent and capital. Industry recruiters have noted a significant tightening in crypto hiring since 2022, largely attributed to AI’s growing influence [4].

The integration of AI into coding has also sparked debate over the future of jobs in the tech sector. While some have raised concerns about widespread job losses due to AI, Armstrong and others argue that the technology is more likely to enhance productivity than replace human workers entirely. “We want to make sure it’s used not just in the engineering teams. It really should be any team,” Armstrong said, highlighting the potential for AI to support roles across the organization [5]. The debate remains ongoing, with differing views on the long-term impact of AI on employment and the economy.

Source: [1] AI Now Writes 40% of Coinbase Code, CEO Targets 50% by October (https://yellow.com/news/ai-now-writes-40-of-coinbase-code-ceo-targets-50-by-october) [2] Brian Armstrong Wants Half of Coinbase Code To Be AI ... (https://finance.yahoo.com/news/brian-armstrong-wants-half-coinbase-105348015.html) [3] Brian Armstrong: “40% of Daily Code Written at Coinbase is AI ... (https://finance.yahoo.com/news/brian-armstrong-40-daily-code-133424336.html) [4] Coinbase's Brian Armstrong Says AI Writes 40% Of Its Code (https://cointelegraph.com/news/coinbase-says-ai-writes-nearly-half-of-its-code) [5] Coinbase CEO: Developers who don't use AI will be fired - CIO (https://www.cio.com/article/4050185/fire-any-developer-who-doesnt-use-ai-why-coinbase-ceos-tough-message.html) [6] 40 per cent code at Coinbase now written by AI, but CEO ... (https://www.indiatoday.in/technology/news/story/40-per-cent-code-at-coinbase-now-written-by-ai-but-ceo-hints-it-may-not-impact-coding-jobs-2781808-2025-09-04)