Messari has announced layoffs and a leadership change as it pivots to an AI-first company. CEO Eric Turner stepped down, handing control to former Chief Technology Officer Diran Li. Turner stated it was the right decision for the company’s next phase. Li confirmed the workforce reductions and outlined a new focus on AI products for institutions.
Eric Turner announced his resignation as CEO of blockchain data provider Messari on Monday. He said he handed the reins to Diran Li, the former chief technology officer. Turner noted this move was for the company’s “next phase” and that Li has his full support.
Turner took over as interim CEO in July 2024 after founder Ryan Selkis resigned. He also confirmed a series of layoffs, calling it a difficult day for the team. The exact number of staff cuts was not disclosed.
In a separate announcement, Diran Li confirmed he was stepping into the CEO role. He said the transition included parting ways with many teammates. “Looking ahead, we’re doubling down on Messari as an AI-first company serving institutions through research and AI products,” Li stated.
Messari began as a crypto research firm in 2018 and started incorporating AI in 2024. Last week, Li announced the company was opening its data layer to autonomous agents. This move allows developers and AI agents to autonomously source and pay for data using crypto wallets.
The company is following several other crypto-native firms expanding into AI. These include Core Scientific, Cipher Mining, MARA Holdings, Hut 8, and Galaxy Digital. Messari previously laid off roughly 15% of its staff in January 2025 and made a similar reduction in February 2023.
