Messari, the well-known crypto research platform, has undergone a sudden leadership change. Chief Technology Officer Diran Li announced on X this morning that he has taken over as CEO after discussions with the board. Former CEO Eric Turner stepped down and will serve as an advisor, a move he confirmed on social media.
CEO Shuffle: From Founder to Turner to Li
Turner only took the helm in 2024, replacing founder Ryan Selkis who resigned after a series of controversial posts. Now, less than two years later, the reins have shifted again. Li described the change as a deliberate outcome of board-level discussions.
Restructuring Means Layoffs
The leadership change came with a workforce reduction. Li stated in his post: “This transition also includes a difficult decision – we say goodbye to many who helped build Messari.” He did not disclose the exact number of cuts. The firm’s new focus: becoming an AI-first research platform, using AI-powered products to serve institutional clients.
Crypto Industry Layoff Wave Continues
Messari is not alone. Last week, OP Labs, developer of Optimism, laid off about 20% of its staff to focus on fewer priorities. In the past month, Jack Dorsey’s Block Inc. cut nearly 4,000 jobs, and exchange Gemini slashed 25% of its workforce to refocus on US operations. The sector is in a deep restructuring phase.
Founded in 2018, Messari has long been known for its research reports and market data on emerging crypto segments. Whether its AI pivot will secure a new foothold is being closely watched by the market.