The Influence of ChatGPT on Artificial Intelligence Related Crypto Assets: Evidence from a Synthetic Control Analysis

Abstract: The introduction of OpenAI's LLM, ChatGPT, catalyzed investor attention towards AI technologies, including AI-related crypto assets not directly related to ChatGPT. Utilizing the synthetic difference-in-difference methodology, we identify significant 'ChatGPT effects' with returns of AI-related crypto assets experiencing average returns ranging between 10.7% and 15.6% (35.5% to 41.3%) in the one-month (two-month) period after the ChatGPT launch. Furthermore, Google search volumes, a proxy for attention to AI, emerged as critical pricing indicators for AI-related crypto post-launch. We conclude that investors perceived AI-assets as possessing heightened potential or value after the launch, resulting in higher market valuations.