The traditional five-day workweek could soon be a relic of the past, with a new norm emerging: just three and a half days of work per week. That’s the vision laid out by Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, who also predicts that advances in technology could see future generations living to 100 years of age.
Speaking with Bloomberg TV, Dimon highlighted artificial intelligence (AI) as a transformative force, calling it a “living, breathing thing” that will continue to evolve and reshape industries over time. AI is already making an impact at America’s largest bank, with thousands of JPMorgan employees using the technology in their daily work. Its applications span error detection, trading, research, and hedging—tasks that traditionally required human expertise.
The rise of AI, however, has stoked fears of widespread job displacement. According to Goldman Sachs, around 300 million jobs worldwide could be impacted by AI, with nearly a quarter of the U.S. workforce concerned about losing their roles to automation. But Dimon argues this shift is not unprecedented. Societies have always adapted to technological revolutions, and the current wave presents opportunities to significantly enhance quality of life.
“People have to take a deep breath,” Dimon urged. “Technology has always replaced jobs. Your children are going to live to 100 and not have cancer because of technology, and they’ll probably be working three and a half days a week.”
These potential reductions in work hours align with findings from McKinsey & Company. A recent report revealed that AI-driven automation could allow employees to spend less time on routine tasks, enabling shorter workweeks without sacrificing productivity.
While fears about job losses are valid, Dimon emphasizes the immense potential for AI to redefine work and human progress, opening doors to greater efficiency, improved health outcomes, and enhanced living standards. For business leaders and policymakers, the challenge lies in ensuring these benefits are widely shared across society.
