Tech Share Share this article Copy linkX (Twitter)LinkedInFacebookEmail AI agents will be primary users of blockchain, Tech Share Share this article Copy linkX (Twitter)LinkedInFacebookEmail AI agents will be primary users of blockchain,

AI agents will be primary users of blockchain, NEAR co-founder says

2026/03/04 01:28
6 min read
For feedback or concerns regarding this content, please contact us at crypto.news@mexc.com
Share
Share this article
Copy linkX (Twitter)LinkedInFacebookEmail

AI agents will be primary users of blockchain, NEAR co-founder says

Polosukhin argues that AI will become the primary interface layer for everything online, including crypto, abstracting away wallets, explorers and transaction hashes.

By Margaux Nijkerk|Edited by Stephen Alpher
Mar 3, 2026, 5:28 p.m.
Make us preferred on Google

What to know:

  • For years, the crypto industry has searched for its next breakout moment — something on the scale of DeFi summer or the NFT boom.
  • Artificial intelligence, meanwhile, has quietly embedded itself into daily life. Developers use ChatGPT as a co-pilot. Consumers rely on AI assistants to draft emails, plan travel and increasingly manage workflows. Crypto, by comparison, still feels infrastructural.
  • Illia Polosukhin, co-founder of NEAR, believes that divide is about to collapse — but not in the way many expect.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - For years, the crypto industry has searched for its next breakout moment — something on the scale of DeFi summer or the NFT boom. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence has quietly embedded itself into daily life. Developers use ChatGPT as a co-pilot. Consumers rely on AI assistants to draft emails, plan travel, and increasingly manage workflows. Crypto, by comparison, still feels infrastructural.

Illia Polosukhin, co-founder of NEAR, believes that divide is about to collapse — but not in the way many expect.

“The users of blockchain will be AI agents,” Polosukhin said in an interview. “AI is going to be on the front end, and blockchain is going to be the back end.”

His framing cuts against much of crypto’s recent experimentation with AI, which has largely centered on speculative tokens, memecoins and agent-themed trading bots. Instead, Polosukhin argues that AI will become the primary interface layer for everything online, including crypto, abstracting away wallets, explorers and transaction hashes.

“The goal is to make your AI hide all the blockchain,” he said. “The fact that we have [blockchain] explorers is effectively a failure, because we don’t abstract the technology.”

In this view, blockchain doesn’t disappear — it recedes. AI agents interact with protocols directly, executing payments, managing assets, coordinating services and even voting in governance systems. Humans, meanwhile, interact with the AI.

“AI is the front end, not just for blockchain, but for everything,” Polosukhin said. “In a few years, it’s going to be just AI, like the operating system.”

That shift, he argues, could explain why crypto hasn’t had an “AI moment” comparable to the consumer explosion of generative tools. “Blockchain is inherently financial,” he said. “It will be limited to finance, but everything we do in our life is finance.”

Rather than competing with AI platforms, crypto’s role may be to provide neutral financial rails beneath them: settlement, ownership, verifiability and programmable incentives.

Still, Polosukhin is critical of how the industry has approached both AI and governance so far — comments that come just days after Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin proposed “AI stewards” to help reinvent DAO governance.

“In blockchain, we propose technical solutions before asking: what is the core problem?” he said.

He points to decentralized autonomous organizations, or DAOs, as an example. “DAOs have dramatically failed because they have been unbounded, not really designed to solve any problem,” he said, arguing that governance tools, including AI-assisted voting agents, only make sense if they’re tied to clearly defined economic or coordination needs.

Another friction point between the AI and crypto communities has been culture. “The memecoins are ruining [the industry's] reputation,” Polosukhin said, arguing that rampant speculation and scams have alienated serious AI researchers. “AI people are banning crypto effectively because of memecoins.”

The longer-term convergence, however, may be less about token launches and more about infrastructure. As AI systems increasingly act on users’ behalf, like paying bills, hiring services, allocating capital, they will require trusted execution, privacy and programmable financial coordination.

“Blockchain is about neutral markets and neutral infrastructure,” Polosukhin said.

If AI becomes the operating system of the internet, crypto’s future may not lie in being the app users open, but in becoming the invisible settlement layer their AI agents quietly depend on.

Read more: NEAR Launches Near.com super app, touting AI capabilities and confidential transactions

AINear protocol

More For You

Pudgy Penguins: Challenging the Pokemon and Disney Legacy in the Global IP Race

CoinDesk Research looks into how Pudgy Penguins disrupts traditional toys market via a phygital model. With 2M+ units sold, they scale via global partnerships and events.

What to know:

  • Disrupting a Stagnant Market: Pudgy Penguins is utilizing a "Negative CAC" model to challenge the traditional $31.7B licensed toy industry by treating physical merchandise as a profitable user acquisition tool rather than just a final product.
View Full Report

More For You

OKX jumps into AI agent race with new OnchainOS toolkit

Developer layer aims to stitch together wallets, swaps and data feeds for autonomous bots.

What to know:

  • OKX has launched an AI-focused upgrade to its OnchainOS developer platform, positioning it as infrastructure for autonomous crypto trading agents.
  • The new AI layer unifies wallet infrastructure, liquidity routing, and on-chain data feeds so agents can execute high-level trading instructions across more than 60 blockchains and 500-plus decentralized exchanges.
  • Developers can access OnchainOS's AI capabilities via natural-language "AI Skills," Model Context Protocol integrations, and REST APIs, with the system already handling 1.2 billion daily API calls and about $300 million in trading volume.
Read full story
Latest Crypto News

Aave governance rift deepens as major governance group exits $26 billion DeFi protocol

Eric Trump’s American Bitcoin buys 11,298 ASIC miners, increasing mining capacity by 12%

Bank of Japan expands blockchain settlement sandbox and says CBDC efforts are ongoing

Bitcoin attempting to make a stand as global stock markets melt down on Iran war

End of bitcoin 'HODL': public miners going all-in on AI, signaling more BTC selling

CFTC chief Selig to clear path for U.S. perpetual futures in coming weeks

Top Stories

‘Scam token’ case against Uniswap dismissed by U.S. district judge in NYC

Bitcoin supply approaching 20 million: The final million will take another 114 years to mine

Dollar surge pressures crypto markets after escalation in Iran conflict

Core Scientific sells $175 million in bitcoin as AI pivot accelerates

Japan prime minister Sanae Takaichi disavows Solana meme coin after it crashes by 75%

Weekend warriors: How HyperLiquid became retail’s bear market playground

Market Opportunity
NEAR Logo
NEAR Price(NEAR)
$1.3742
$1.3742$1.3742
-1.24%
USD
NEAR (NEAR) Live Price Chart
Disclaimer: The articles reposted on this site are sourced from public platforms and are provided for informational purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect the views of MEXC. All rights remain with the original authors. If you believe any content infringes on third-party rights, please contact crypto.news@mexc.com for removal. MEXC makes no guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content and is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided. The content does not constitute financial, legal, or other professional advice, nor should it be considered a recommendation or endorsement by MEXC.

You May Also Like

Unprecedented Surge: Gold Price Hits Astounding New Record High

Unprecedented Surge: Gold Price Hits Astounding New Record High

BitcoinWorld Unprecedented Surge: Gold Price Hits Astounding New Record High While the world often buzzes with the latest movements in Bitcoin and altcoins, a traditional asset has quietly but powerfully commanded attention: gold. This week, the gold price has once again made headlines, touching an astounding new record high of $3,704 per ounce. This significant milestone reminds investors, both traditional and those deep in the crypto space, of gold’s enduring appeal as a store of value and a hedge against uncertainty. What’s Driving the Record Gold Price Surge? The recent ascent of the gold price to unprecedented levels is not a random event. Several powerful macroeconomic forces are converging, creating a perfect storm for the precious metal. Geopolitical Tensions: Escalating conflicts and global instability often drive investors towards safe-haven assets. Gold, with its long history of retaining value during crises, becomes a preferred choice. Inflation Concerns: Persistent inflation in major economies erodes the purchasing power of fiat currencies. Consequently, investors seek assets like gold that historically maintain their value against rising prices. Central Bank Policies: Many central banks globally are accumulating gold at a significant pace. This institutional demand provides a strong underlying support for the gold price. Furthermore, expectations around interest rate cuts in the future also make non-yielding assets like gold more attractive. These factors collectively paint a picture of a cautious market, where investors are looking for stability amidst a turbulent economic landscape. Understanding Gold’s Appeal in Today’s Market For centuries, gold has held a unique position in the financial world. Its latest record-breaking performance reinforces its status as a critical component of a diversified portfolio. Gold offers a tangible asset that is not subject to the same digital vulnerabilities or regulatory shifts that can impact cryptocurrencies. While digital assets offer exciting growth potential, gold provides a foundational stability that appeals to a broad spectrum of investors. Moreover, the finite supply of gold, much like Bitcoin’s capped supply, contributes to its perceived value. The current market environment, characterized by economic uncertainty and fluctuating currency values, only amplifies gold’s intrinsic benefits. It serves as a reliable hedge when other asset classes, including stocks and sometimes even crypto, face downward pressure. How Does This Record Gold Price Impact Investors? A soaring gold price naturally raises questions for investors. For those who already hold gold, this represents a significant validation of their investment strategy. For others, it might spark renewed interest in this ancient asset. Benefits for Investors: Portfolio Diversification: Gold often moves independently of other asset classes, offering crucial diversification benefits. Wealth Preservation: It acts as a robust store of value, protecting wealth against inflation and economic downturns. Liquidity: Gold markets are highly liquid, allowing for relatively easy buying and selling. Challenges and Considerations: Opportunity Cost: Investing in gold means capital is not allocated to potentially higher-growth assets like equities or certain cryptocurrencies. Volatility: While often seen as stable, gold prices can still experience significant fluctuations, as evidenced by its rapid ascent. Considering the current financial climate, understanding gold’s role can help refine your overall investment approach. Looking Ahead: The Future of the Gold Price What does the future hold for the gold price? While no one can predict market movements with absolute certainty, current trends and expert analyses offer some insights. Continued geopolitical instability and persistent inflationary pressures could sustain demand for gold. Furthermore, if global central banks continue their gold acquisition spree, this could provide a floor for prices. However, a significant easing of inflation or a de-escalation of global conflicts might reduce some of the immediate upward pressure. Investors should remain vigilant, observing global economic indicators and geopolitical developments closely. The ongoing dialogue between traditional finance and the emerging digital asset space also plays a role. As more investors become comfortable with both gold and cryptocurrencies, a nuanced understanding of how these assets complement each other will be crucial for navigating future market cycles. The recent surge in the gold price to a new record high of $3,704 per ounce underscores its enduring significance in the global financial landscape. It serves as a powerful reminder of gold’s role as a safe haven asset, a hedge against inflation, and a vital component for portfolio diversification. While digital assets continue to innovate and capture headlines, gold’s consistent performance during times of uncertainty highlights its timeless value. Whether you are a seasoned investor or new to the market, understanding the drivers behind gold’s ascent is crucial for making informed financial decisions in an ever-evolving world. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: What does a record-high gold price signify for the broader economy? A record-high gold price often indicates underlying economic uncertainty, inflation concerns, and geopolitical instability. Investors tend to flock to gold as a safe haven when they lose confidence in traditional currencies or other asset classes. Q2: How does gold compare to cryptocurrencies as a safe-haven asset? Both gold and some cryptocurrencies (like Bitcoin) are often considered safe havens. Gold has a centuries-long history of retaining value during crises, offering tangibility. Cryptocurrencies, while newer, offer decentralization and can be less susceptible to traditional financial system failures, but they also carry higher volatility and regulatory risks. Q3: Should I invest in gold now that its price is at a record high? Investing at a record high requires careful consideration. While the price might continue to climb due to ongoing market conditions, there’s also a risk of a correction. It’s crucial to assess your personal financial goals, risk tolerance, and consider diversifying your portfolio rather than putting all your capital into a single asset. Q4: What are the main factors that influence the gold price? The gold price is primarily influenced by global economic uncertainty, inflation rates, interest rate policies by central banks, the strength of the U.S. dollar, and geopolitical tensions. Demand from jewelers and industrial uses also play a role, but investment and central bank demand are often the biggest drivers. Q5: Is gold still a good hedge against inflation? Historically, gold has proven to be an effective hedge against inflation. When the purchasing power of fiat currencies declines, gold tends to hold its value or even increase, making it an attractive asset for preserving wealth during inflationary periods. To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping Bitcoin’s price action. This post Unprecedented Surge: Gold Price Hits Astounding New Record High first appeared on BitcoinWorld.
Share
Coinstats2025/09/18 02:30
Solana to $1,000? This Trader Updates His SOL Price Prediction

Solana to $1,000? This Trader Updates His SOL Price Prediction

Solana is off to a strong September run. After bouncing from the $200 zone, SOL now trades just under $250 and shows no sign of slowing. Among analysts watching this rally, trader Crypto Patel stands out for setting bold targets that have grabbed the market’s attention. What Crypto Patel’s Chart Shows Patel’s weekly chart highlights
Share
Coinstats2025/09/19 17:30
‘Gold Pillars Crumbling?’ Strategist Questions Durability of Gold’s Geopolitical Bid

‘Gold Pillars Crumbling?’ Strategist Questions Durability of Gold’s Geopolitical Bid

Gold’s geopolitical premium may be fading as crude oil and silver eye powerful upside, with shifting global tensions and market volatility poised to redraw the
Share
Coinstats2026/03/04 10:30