BlackRock Explores AI Agents and Machine-Native Economies

A BlackRock report titled 'The Machine-Native Economy' examines how autonomous AI agents could utilize programmable infrastructure to contract services, settle transactions, and manage resources. While acknowledging that traditional banking networks remain relevant, the report suggests that automated systems are better suited for frequent, low-value, 24/7 transactions. The research highlights protocols like MCP for tool access, A2A for agent coordination, and x402 for resource payments as key components in this evolving landscape.