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The ECB Podcast

AI: economic game changer or job taker?

Apr 9, 2025
António Dias da Silva, an ECB expert on AI adoption, and Miles Parker, an economist focused on AI and energy consumption, dive into the transformative impact of AI on the economy. They discuss whether AI will replace jobs or create new opportunities, emphasizing the necessity of reskilling. The duo explores demographic differences in AI adoption and how policy can facilitate corporate integration. They also tackle the increasing energy consumption of AI technologies, comparing their demands to traditional activities, and ponder the balance between digital innovation and sustainability.
23:57

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • AI can both automate existing tasks and create new job opportunities, especially among younger and more educated workers.
  • The productivity benefits of AI are contingent on companies' willingness to adopt it, alongside effective policymaking to support innovation.

Deep dives

AI's Impact on Jobs and Employment

Concerns about job losses due to artificial intelligence often overshadow potential opportunities arising from its adoption. Experts highlight that while AI may automate certain tasks, it can also create new roles and change existing ones. A significant age divide exists in AI usage, with younger and more educated workers more likely to engage with AI tools in their jobs. Surveys reveal that many workers maintain a neutral to positive outlook on AI's impact on their employment prospects, suggesting that familiarization with AI may alleviate fears surrounding job security.

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