Crypto Designed for AI Agents, Not Humans, According to Alchemy CEO

The current financial system was created with human limitations in mind, such as geographical constraints, sleep patterns, and physical presence. However, with the emergence of AI agents as economic participants, this human-centric design is becoming a hindrance, according to Nikil Viswanathan, co-founder of crypto firm Alchemy. Viswanathan argues that cryptocurrency was, in fact, built for AI agents, not humans. The traditional financial system is characterized by operating hours, country-specific payments, and credit cards that require physical identity and presence. In contrast, AI agents operate around the clock, are not bound by geographical locations, and do not require physical presence or identity. As AI agents increasingly engage in transactions, the need for a more efficient and global financial system becomes apparent. According to Viswanathan, cryptocurrency provides the necessary infrastructure for AI agents to operate seamlessly, with its global, always-on financial layer allowing for frictionless transactions across borders. The complexity of cryptocurrency, which has long been a barrier for humans, is actually a strength for machines, as they can operate natively in code. Viswanathan predicts that AI agents will utilize cryptocurrency to manage complexity, execute transactions, and optimize capital flows in real-time, making it easier for people to control their funds. This will lead to a more global, programmable, and autonomous financial system, with AI agents operating at the core and humans interacting through a user-friendly interface.