BlackRock Sees AI Agents Fueling Cryptocurrency Demand

BlackRock, the asset management giant, predicts that the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) agents could significantly boost demand for cryptocurrencies. The firm suggests that software, rather than individual investors, may become a key driver of future crypto adoption.

According to BlackRock, current payment systems like card networks and automated clearing house (ACH) systems are ill-suited for AI-driven transactions. These systems assume human involvement, are inefficient for small payments due to fees, and are slow to process transactions. AI agents, which could handle tasks like booking travel or purchasing data, need payment methods that operate 24/7.

BlackRock highlights blockchain-based payment networks as a solution, particularly for high-frequency, low-value machine-to-machine (M2M) transactions. The firm differentiates between bitcoin and stablecoins, noting that stablecoins are likely preferred for everyday payments, while bitcoin serves as a long-term store of value. As AI adoption grows, digital assets could become integral to AI economic infrastructure.

The report aligns with BlackRock’s positive stance on cryptocurrencies. The firm’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) ETF, approved by the SEC in 2024, has become the most successful ETF debut in history, managing over $67 billion in assets. BlackRock sees potential for bitcoin and stablecoins to evolve beyond investment assets into infrastructure for payments and value storage as AI expands.