AI Agents to Rely on Stablecoins and Blockchain Networks: Coinbase's Agentic Finance Strategy

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong believes that artificial intelligence (AI) will strengthen crypto's role in global payments, rather than replace it. According to him, AI agents will need real-time programmable money, which can be provided by stablecoins and blockchain networks.

Armstrong expects AI agents to use USDC and Base for real-time payments, as they cannot easily open bank accounts or wait several days for wire transfers. Coinbase is positioning its USDC, Base blockchain, and x402 payments protocol as core infrastructure for this market.

The company's strategy, called 'Agentic Finance' (AiFi), aims to allow AI systems to access wallets, make payments, and carry out financial instructions within limits set by users. Armstrong predicts that agents will act as traders and financial advisers, borrowing or raising capital for projects they undertake independently.