Elon Musk says money won't matter by 2036 due to AI, urges universal income

Elon Musk told The Economist on July 25, 2026 that money will become irrelevant by 2036 as artificial intelligence and robots produce more goods and services than anyone can consume. He said, 'Money won't matter in 2036,' and suggested a 'universal high income' as the way forward. Musk also reflected on his role as a senior advisor and co-head of the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which ended on July 4, 2026 after he admitted getting 'a little too involved in politics' during the 2024 election.

For Nigerians, this forecast highlights how AI-driven automation could reshape jobs and wealth creation in the country. If machines abundantly supply goods, traditional wage labor may shrink, making skills in AI oversight, tech entrepreneurship, or creative industries more valuable. The idea of a universal high income also invites debate on what social safety nets Nigeria might need as technology advances.

What should you know or do? Start building digital and AI-related skills now, explore entrepreneurial avenues that leverage automation, and follow policy discussions on universal basic income or similar schemes so you can position yourself for the economic shifts Musk predicts.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/25/elon-musk-predicts-money-wont-matter-from-2036/