AI Veteran Pivots to Crypto Wage Solution

Joey Bertschler, an ex-OpenAI technical staffer, has unveiled Volante Chain - a blockchain-powered system enabling daily wage access. The platform currently undergoes testing with 【2,000】 users across Vietnam and Japan, challenging traditional monthly payroll cycles. Bertschler revealed the $2 million-funded startup reduces processing fees through distributed ledger technology while incorporating AI for default risk assessment.

Breaking the Paycheck-to-Paycheck Cycle

——"Thirty days is thirty days of stolen financial freedom,"—— Bertschler told Cointelegraph during German Blockchain Week. The hybrid system combines smart contracts with human oversight, allowing employees at partner firms to withdraw earned wages daily rather than awaiting month-end payments. Early testing shows particular promise for gig economy workers and minimum-wage earners across Southeast Asia.

OpenAI Exodus Sparks Fintech Venture

The Austrian developer's career shift follows growing dissatisfaction with OpenAI's internal policies. Non-US employees reportedly faced 【no stock options】 and limited promotion paths despite contributing to pre-ChatGPT projects. "We built foundational work without public credit," Bertschler noted, criticizing the company's increasing secrecy after Microsoft's involvement. This disillusionment mirrors wider industry concerns about AI ethics and employee compensation.

Volante's Technical Architecture

The platform's architecture merges three disruptive technologies: • Blockchain for immutable payment records • Machine learning algorithms predicting employer solvency • Stablecoin integration for cross-border settlements Early adopters include manufacturing and logistics firms seeking to attract temporary workers through flexible payment options. The system currently processes transactions at 【1/8th】 the cost of traditional payroll providers.

Industry Implications

Financial analysts observe growing demand for earned wage access (EWA) solutions, particularly in emerging markets. Volante enters a competitive landscape against established players like PayActiv and DailyPay, but distinguishes itself through cryptocurrency integration. ——"Blockchain solves the trust equation in real-time payroll,"—— remarked a Singapore-based fintech consultant monitoring the pilot program.

As OpenAI faces scrutiny over its corporate evolution, Bertschler's venture exemplifies the talent migration from AI to blockchain sectors. Volante plans European expansion by late 2025, potentially disrupting a 【$12 billion】 global EWA market increasingly embracing decentralized solutions.