Billionaire investor Steve Cohen recently expressed his belief that the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) technology will pave the way for a four-day work week. Cohen, who owns the New York Mets, shared his insights on CNBC’s Squawk Box, noting that the combination of AI advancements and decreased productivity on Fridays by workers is pointing towards a shorter work week becoming a reality.
Cohen emphasized that while he sees the four-day work week as an inevitable shift, he acknowledged that the timing of its implementation remains uncertain. However, he sees it aligning with a broader trend towards more leisure time for individuals. This perspective influenced his decision to invest in the golf startup league TGL in 2023.
Despite his support for a four-day work week, Cohen made it clear that he does not intend to grant his traders Fridays off as long as the markets are operational. He predicted that most people will eventually have the opportunity to enjoy a three-day weekend as the standard work week evolves.
The discussion around a four-day work week has gained momentum, with Senator Bernie Sanders introducing a bill that proposes establishing a standard four-day work week in the United States without reducing pay. The Thirty-Two Hour Workweek Act was co-sponsored by Senator Laphonza Butler and a companion bill was introduced in the House by Representative Mark Takano.
As the conversation on work-life balance continues, the potential impact of AI on work schedules and productivity is a critical factor to consider. Cohen’s perspective sheds light on the evolving landscape of labor practices and the role that technology may play in shaping the future of work.
