BlackRock Sees AI-Driven Blockchain Future with Decentralized Value Settlement Networks

Global asset management firm BlackRock has released research on AI and blockchain, outlining its vision for decentralized value settlement networks in an increasingly automated economy.

The whitepaper explores how blockchain can support machine-to-machine micropayments using stablecoins, with transaction volumes exceeding $11 trillion in 2025.

BlackRock emphasizes the need for decentralized settlement networks as the firm notes that AI agents will require new financial systems to operate efficiently.

The research also highlights the role of smart contracts in managing financial assets and suggests that programmable interactions between assets could become standard through stablecoins.