What to do with your money if we're really heading for an AI apocalypse

Recent warnings about the potential dangers of artificial intelligence have sparked a debate on how to safeguard one's financial investments in the event of an AI apocalypse. Several experts in the field have offered their insights on the matter, suggesting a range of strategies to mitigate potential risks.

Neil Wilson, an investor strategist at Saxo UK, believes that gold is likely to remain a stable asset class even in the face of a catastrophic event. He also suggests that cybersecurity stocks could serve as a useful defense against the events that may precede an AI disaster, such as the recent call for slower AI development by the company Anthropic.

John Longo, a finance professor and portfolio manager at Rutgers University, recommends adhering to traditional investment principles such as diversification, maintaining a cash reserve, and limiting leverage. Longo advises investors to consider safe-haven assets like gold, US Treasurys, and Swiss francs, as well as software security and defense stocks within equities.

Susannah Streeter, a chief investment strategist at Wealth Club, advises investors to limit their exposure to AI-related risks by reducing their bets on major US tech stocks, maintaining a sensible cash buffer, and diversifying their investments across regions, sectors, and asset classes. She adds that gold can provide a useful hedge during periods of severe market stress, but cautions against relying on cryptocurrencies, which have shown high volatility in the face of global turmoil.

Ipek Ozkardeskaya, a senior analyst at Swissquote Bank, suggests that government bonds, gold, real estate funds, and high-quality defensive stocks are likely to be the best bets in the event of a disaster. She recommends rotating to companies with strong earnings, low leverage, and sufficient free cash flow for stock investors, emphasizing that defensive names will become more appealing.

Sarah Coles, head of personal finance at AJ Bell, warns against overstating the threat of AI ending the world, as it remains theoretical and safeguards will likely be put in place to prevent it. However, she suggests that those concerned about such a scenario could stockpile long-lasting food and household essentials to prepare for potential disruptions to daily life.

Kristin Pugh, a private wealth manager at Creative Planning, suggests that in a catastrophic AI scenario, money may not hold much significance due to the breakdown of human systems. Instead, Pugh emphasizes the importance of focusing on relationships with family, neighbors, and communities, and ensuring that one's loved ones are reminded of the value of humanity and the freedom to choose how to live. In a more practical sense, Pugh recommends keeping some water and food on hand to prepare for potential disruptions.