Changpeng Zhao, the founder of Binance, has suggested that while artificial intelligence poses an existential risk to humanity, it does not threaten the crypto ecosystem in the same way. According to Zhao, as AI powered software systems continue to grow, they are increasingly likely to use crypto infrastructure for payments and value transfers ahead of traditional banking systems.
The link between artificial intelligence and crypto infrastructure
In a Galaxy Research interview published on June 18, topics included the Bitcoin cycle, Satoshi Nakamoto’s holdings, the Hyperliquid platform, and the future of AI agents. Zhao commented that current banking systems are slow to adapt to non-human economic activity, so autonomous software might favor crypto networks due to their cross-border and programmable nature.
Mini glossary: Hyperliquid is a blockchain ecosystem focused on decentralized derivatives trading. An autonomous agent refers to a software system capable of completing certain tasks without human intervention.
Zhao argues that autonomous systems operating over the internet require payment tools that are fast, unconstrained by geography, and managed directly by code. In this context, he notes that bank accounts are ill suited for machine-to-machine transactions, while web3 wallets are a much better fit for these needs.
In the Galaxy Research interview, Zhao underlined that while AI poses a serious risk to civilization, AI powered agents are likely to begin using crypto before banks realize it.
The report notes that the requirement for human approval of transactions and delays in opening corporate banking accounts remain significant challenges for traditional finance. In contrast, smart software bots can quickly establish open and programmable web3 wallets, accelerating the adoption of permissionless networks using stablecoins.
Potential impact on the unbanked
Zhao also proposed that the proliferation of software agents could enhance financial access for billions of underserved adults. Even as global rates of account ownership rise, many people still lack access to stable financial tools.
With the growth of machine driven commerce, blockchain-based infrastructure could become cheaper and more accessible. Such networks can offer affordable money transfers and savings options, introducing new financial opportunities to communities excluded from the banking system.
As Zhao sees it, the expansion of automated digital commerce infrastructure could, perhaps unintentionally, bring populations lacking banking access closer to decentralized finance.
Zhao’s long-term technology outlook
The report also highlights Zhao’s growing personal focus on foundational hardware and software infrastructure. He has launched new ventures targeting the intersection of blockchain, AI, and biotechnology. As one of the industry’s most recognized figures, Zhao continues to chart new directions in crypto innovation.
Although Zhao maintains his optimism for Bitcoin and digital assets, he acknowledges that the much anticipated “supercycle” has yet to occur. Nevertheless, he believes that the emergence of new applications demonstrates that the crypto ecosystem is expanding, despite continued price volatility.
Zhao predicts that as machine-centered commerce evolves in the long term, decentralized networks could become a primary transaction layer in the global economy.
