Alchemy and Visa launch AgentCard: AI agents get their own payment tools
The cryptocurrency and blockchain technology market is taking another step toward automating financial operations. The Alchemy platform, in partnership with Visa, has introduced the AgentCard service — a solution that allows AI agents to make online purchases on behalf of users. This is not just another tool, but a full-fledged infrastructure for integrating artificial intelligence into the global economy.
AgentCard is based on integration with Visa Intelligent Commerce, giving neural networks access to a virtual Visa card, email address, phone number, and cryptocurrency wallet. Developers can configure payment functions for the agent through a single API in less than a minute. This speed of deployment is critical for scaling.
AI agents based on models from OpenAI or Anthropic will be able to perform routine tasks: booking tickets, ordering groceries, renewing subscriptions. The user does not need to participate in the checkout process — the agent does everything independently. The system supports spending limits, restrictions on store categories, and customizable budgets, ensuring control by the owner.
By default, payments are processed through Visa tokens, preserving bank bonuses and credit lines. If the merchant accepts digital assets, the service can automatically switch to a crypto wallet. The AgentCard protocol selects the optimal payment method depending on merchant support.
My professional opinion: The launch of AgentCard is a logical step in the evolution of DeFi and payment systems. We are seeing how Visa's infrastructure is adapting to the needs of autonomous agents, paving the way for fully automated financial ecosystems. In the coming years, such solutions will become the standard for managing personal finances and business operations.