Brian Armstrong, the CEO of cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase, compared entrepreneurship to the addictive nature of strategy video games such as Starcraft and Civilization.
In a post on social media, Armstrong wrote that in his teens and 20s he spent significant time playing the games, which involved harvesting resources, building, and expanding. He later realized that business scratches the same itch but is more fulfilling because it contributes to humanity.
“Business is also much more positive sum than video games,” Armstrong stated. “In Starcraft, the other player has to lose for you to win. In business, there is competition, but in a growing market there can be multiple winners.”
He added that gains in business compound over the long term as an “infinite game,” unlike video games that restart each time. Armstrong noted that he now prefers to watch professional players to unwind rather than playing himself, though an occasional quick game can still be fun.
Armstrong co-founded Coinbase in 2012 with Fred Ehrsam. He holds degrees in computer science and economics from Rice University, including a master’s degree in computer science.
His estimated net worth is approximately $9.2 billion as of mid-April 2026, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, largely tied to his stake in Coinbase.
Armstrong has also co-founded ResearchHub, a platform to accelerate scientific research, and NewLimit, a biotechnology company focused on longevity.
The post reflects Armstrong’s personal view of business as a decades-long endeavor that provides ongoing satisfaction and positive impact.
Armstrong did not announce any new business initiatives in the post. Coinbase, which he leads, is the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the United States.
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