AI Agents, On-Chain Finance to Transform Crypto in 2026

On December 11, 2025, a16z released the “2026 Crypto Outlook,” detailing AI agents and on-chain finance’s role in automating transactions and reshaping crypto infrastructure.

This outlook signifies a transformational shift for cryptocurrencies, potentially revolutionizing global financial systems and fostering broad institutional adoption.

a16z released its 2026 Crypto Outlook on December 11, 2025, forecasting a major role for AI agents in automating crypto transactions and promoting open network development.

This initiative will automate financial processes and influence crypto infrastructure, signaling a shift towards enhanced technology use.

AI Agents Revolutionize Crypto Transactions in 2026

The a16z report highlights the integration of AI agents and on-chain finance as revolutionary. It outlines how AI technology will automate transactions, enable smart assistants, and support network growth in the crypto ecosystem.

Key players include Carra Wu and Eddy Lazzarin, who emphasize innovations like AI managing wallets and autonomous crypto market trading. This positions 2026 as pivotal for crypto infrastructure evolution.

$30 Trillion Impact Predicted by 2030 from AI Advancements

The projected economic impact could reach $30 trillion by 2030, with AI agents acting as the native financial layer. Institutional adoption and stablecoins will also see growing emphasis.

Experts propose using AI to tokenize unconventional assets and bring government bonds on-chain. As Aaron Schnider, Technical Operations Specialist at a16z crypto, stated:

AI’s Historic Parallels with Crypto Adoption by Major Banks

This shift parallels historic infrastructure maturity in the crypto realm, similar to the adoption of crypto products by major banks. Prior AI trials, such as Truth Terminal, demonstrated AI’s potential in the sector.

Experts predict that the decentralization framework may guide future developments, with AI supporting digital finance complexity. Historical trends suggest new governance models emerging, enhancing operational efficiency.