Messari CEO Eric Turner steps down as CTO Diran Li takes charge amid layoffs, AI pivot

Crypto market intelligence platform Messari has announced a leadership transition, with CEO Eric Turner stepping down and Chief Technology Officer Diran Li assuming the top role, as the company undertakes layoffs and sharpens its focus on artificial intelligence.

In a post on X, Li confirmed he is taking over as CEO following discussions with Turner and the company’s board, calling the move “the right step for the company’s next chapter.” He added that the transition comes alongside a workforce reduction, describing it as a “difficult decision” that affects employees who played a key role in building the firm.

Li did not disclose how many employees were impacted but said the company would support those affected and help connect them with new opportunities.

Turner, who took over as CEO in 2024 after founder Ryan Selkis resigned, confirmed the change in a separate post. He will remain with the company as an advisor. “This wasn’t an easy decision, but it’s the right one for the company’s next phase,” Turner said, expressing support for Li’s leadership.

The restructuring signals a broader strategic shift, with Messari repositioning itself as an “AI-first” company. Li said the firm will double down on developing AI-driven research and products tailored for institutional clients, while maintaining its core mission of helping users navigate the crypto market.

Founded in 2018, Messari is known for its blockchain research, market intelligence, and its annual Mainnet conference in New York. The company’s pivot reflects a wider trend across the crypto sector, where firms are tightening operations and refocusing priorities amid evolving market dynamics.

Recent weeks have seen similar moves across the industry. OP Labs cut around 20% of its workforce, while Block Inc., led by Jack Dorsey, announced plans to reduce nearly 4,000 jobs. Crypto exchange Gemini has also trimmed about a quarter of its staff as it narrows focus on its U.S. operations.

Messari’s leadership change and restructuring underscore how crypto firms are adapting to rapid technological shifts, with AI increasingly at the center of their next phase of growth.