AI bubble burst may trigger 2008-like banking crisis, says Gary Marcus
In a recent discussion, Gary Marcus raised critical flags about OpenAI's fiscal responsibilities as the stock market faces instability. He warned that the demise of leading AI firms could trigger extensive financial repercussions. Notably, Marcus compared the current climate to WeWork's disastrous decline, suggesting that Microsoft might pick up OpenAI at a bargain.
American cognitive scientist and author Gary Marcus warned that the AI bubble could lead to a banking crisis reminiscent of 2008. He suggested that the failure of a major AI company, potentially sold to a tech giant like Microsoft in a fire-sale, could trigger a contagion effect worldwide. Marcus expressed concern over the rapid expansion of generative AI, deeming it "egregious" that Anthropic continues pushing despite risks.
He called for a recall of autonomous AI agents, arguing they pose a significant danger. While he believed the risk of AI causing human extinction was low, he warned that the probability of catastrophe and societal dystopia was very high. Marcus previously testified on AI regulation before the US Senate and published predictions in December 2025, including warnings of an AI investment bubble peaking in 2025.
He suggested Microsoft might acquire OpenAI for $200 billion instead of the $1 trillion IPO valuation.
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