Matt Shumer, a finance expert, recently sparked widespread attention with his essay, “Something Big is Coming,” which discusses the looming effects of artificial intelligence (AI) on jobs and society. He believes there’s at least a 20% chance that AI will drastically change our lives, and he wants everyone—especially those outside the tech industry—to be ready.
His essay has gained significant traction, with over 60 million views on X (formerly Twitter). In it, Shumer compares the potential disruption from AI to the impact of COVID-19, leading to mixed reactions online.
Shumer has experience in the tech field, having co-founded OthersideAI, which developed an AI writing tool called HyperWrite. He shares that he’s genuinely concerned about the lack of clarity for many professions as AI evolves. For example, entry-level legal positions may be at risk, while roles in healthcare may remain stable for a longer period.
Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has echoed similar fears, suggesting that AI could eliminate up to half of all entry-level jobs in the next few years. Elon Musk has described AI as a “supersonic tsunami” that may devastate non-physical jobs. These worries highlight a growing consensus among tech leaders about the urgent need for adaptation in the workforce.
Recently released models, like OpenAI’s GPT-5.3-Codex, illustrate how rapidly AI is advancing. Shumer has noted that this new AI can perform tasks he once did himself, raising the stakes for those in tech and beyond. Interestingly, he openly admits that he used AI tools to help craft his essay, highlighting both the value and risk that AI poses for the future.
The social media reaction to his essay shows that many are grappling with these changes. Users are sharing their own insights and anxieties regarding AI’s impact on their jobs and the economy.
In summary, Matt Shumer’s essay serves as a wake-up call. It shines a light on the fast-approaching reality of AI and its potential consequences across various industries. Many experts foresee that understanding and preparing for this shift will be crucial for everyone moving forward.
For those interested in more insights, you can read Shumer’s full essay here.
