The financial sector is experiencing a significant shift with the emergence of AI agents that can execute transactions, creating a new paradigm known as 'agentic finance.' As AI systems transition from advisory to executive roles, they require a financial infrastructure that can support their autonomous operations. Crypto has become the backbone of this machine-driven economy, providing the necessary tools for AI agents to function effectively. In this article, we delve into the world of agentic finance, exploring its layers, use cases, and the role of crypto in facilitating AI-driven transactions.

We also examine the risks and future outlook of this technology, including the need for regulatory clarity and the growth of agent-native wallets and payment protocols. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of AI agents to drive new investable categories and demand for crypto, and how they are becoming a new class of 'user' for crypto networks. To better understand the present and future of AI payments, we posed questions to a panel of AI experts, who shared their insights on the current use cases and the necessary steps for scalability.

As the adoption of AI agents continues to grow, it is essential for advisors to track this trend and understand its implications for the financial industry.