Australia’s 40-Year Economic Outlook: AI is In, Crypto is Out

Australia’s Treasury identified AI as a major force expected to reshape the economy over the next 40 years but made no mention of crypto or digital assets .

When it comes to predicting the future of a nation’s economy, it’s kind of like trying to read the tea leaves after a particularly raucous party—there’s a lot of guesswork involved, and you might just end up with a cup of lukewarm disappointment. Australia recently released a 40-year economic outlook that has sent shockwaves through the land down under, primarily because it boldly embraces the ‘AI revolution’ while giving crypto the cold shoulder. Yes, folks, it looks like Bitcoin and its buddies are still waiting for their invitation to the party.

Let’s break this down. Australia’s economic forecast is all about how artificial intelligence (AI) will reshape various industries, create jobs, and potentially make our lives easier. Think of AI as that friend who shows up with a bottle of wine and the latest gossip—everyone wants to be around it. From healthcare to agriculture, AI is being touted as the next big thing that will drive productivity and innovation. Sounds great, right?

But here’s where things get a bit sticky: crypto. While AI gets the spotlight, cryptocurrencies are left sitting in the corner, sipping a flat soda, wondering what they did wrong. You’d think after the rollercoaster ride crypto has been on—complete with dizzying highs and stomach-churning lows—it would at least warrant a mention. But no, the Australian outlook seems to be saying, “Thanks, but no thanks” to digital currencies.

Now, I’m not here to argue the merits or pitfalls of crypto. That’s a debate for another day (or, let’s be honest, a debate that could last until the next ice age). But it’s hard to ignore the fact that cryptocurrencies have made some serious waves in the financial world. Whether you view them as the future of money or a speculative bubble waiting to burst, they are part of the conversation. Omitting them from a 40-year outlook feels a bit like ignoring the elephant in the room—or perhaps the kangaroo in the backyard, since we’re in Australia after all.

So, what gives? Is it a case of the government not wanting to associate with the unpredictable world of crypto? Or maybe they just really, really love their AI? Whatever the reason, it’s clear that the decision to exclude crypto from this long-term economic forecast has left many scratching their heads. It’s like throwing a birthday party and forgetting to invite half the guests. Sure, you might have a great time, but what’s a party without a little chaos?

In conclusion, while Australia is gearing up for an AI-driven future, it seems to be playing hard to get with the crypto crowd. Whether this is a wise choice or a major oversight remains to be seen. But for now, if you’re a crypto enthusiast down under, you might want to start thinking of ways to crash that AI party. Perhaps a clever meme or two could do the trick? After all, nothing says ‘I belong here’ like a well-timed joke about blockchain. Cheers to the future—whatever it might hold!


Inspired by: “Australian 40-year economic outlook recognizes ‘AI revolution,’ omits crypto” (r/Crypto)