Alchemy and Visa launch AgentCard: AI agents get their own payment tools
The cryptocurrency and blockchain technology market continues to evolve, and we are now witnessing a new phase—the integration of artificial intelligence into financial infrastructure. The Alchemy platform, in partnership with Visa, has introduced the AgentCard service, which allows AI agents to make online purchases on behalf of users. This is not just another product, but a strategic step toward creating autonomous economic entities.
What is AgentCard and how does it work?
The solution is based on integration with Visa Intelligent Commerce. AI agents receive a full set of data for conducting transactions: a virtual Visa card, an email address, a phone number, and a cryptocurrency wallet. Developers can configure access to pay for goods and services through a single API in less than a minute. This means that neural networks based on OpenAI or Anthropic models will be able to book tickets, order groceries, and renew subscriptions without user involvement in the process.
Transaction flexibility and security
The system supports spending limits, restrictions by store categories, and customizable budgets. By default, payments are processed through Visa tokens, allowing users to retain bank bonuses and credit lines. If the merchant accepts digital assets, the service can use a crypto wallet. The AgentCard protocol automatically selects the optimal payment method based on merchant support. Visa representatives emphasize that the company's infrastructure ensures the security and scalability of such transactions.
Expert opinion
As Alchemy CEO Nikhil Viswanathan noted, "every shift in technology has created new economic participants. AI agents are the next step—they need access to the global economy." I fully agree with this thesis. We are already seeing major players like MetaMask and Coinbase announce similar solutions for autonomous AI. However, AgentCard from Alchemy and Visa stands out for its integration with the traditional financial system, which could serve as a bridge between the cryptocurrency world and fiat payments. In the coming years, we will likely see an explosive growth in the number of AI agents managing users' finances, and this trend will change not only the crypto market but the entire economy as a whole.