VeChain co-founder and CEO Sunny Lu stated that artificial intelligence (AI) agents could shape the next wave of blockchain adoption, emphasizing the need for stronger systems to verify their identities and reputations. Speaking on the Cointelegraph Chain Reaction show, Lu said that autonomous AI agents operating nonstop would require a robust accountability structure to gain public trust.
Building trust for AI agents on blockchain
Discussing VeWorld.ai—an agent-building platform integrated with VeChain’s blockchain—Lu offered insights into how AI agents might interact with decentralized networks. He suggested that as these autonomous programs become more prevalent, it is critical for them to have digital “passports” within a decentralized credibility system, which could track and record both their reputations and those of their developers.
Lu pointed to the role of smart contracts as key to enabling seamless transactions between AI agents or between agents and human users. Such automatic and transparent settlement mechanisms could further strengthen trust and accountability within digital environments.
Lu envisioned agents carrying digital IDs and participating in a decentralized credibility framework, allowing their performance and creator reputations to be tracked transparently on blockchain technology.
VeChain, a global enterprise-focused blockchain, also applies its technology to use cases including supply-chain management and food traceability projects. These real-world applications, according to company leaders, demonstrate how blockchain can promote transparency and accountability across industries.
Mini dictionary: VeChain is a public blockchain platform specializing in supply chain management and business process solutions, aiming to introduce greater transparency and traceability to industries through distributed ledger technology.
Lowering barriers to entry for expertise-driven businesses
Lu further noted that AI agents could allow more individuals to monetize their expertise, even if they lack technical backgrounds. Drawing a parallel with the rise of mobile app stores—platforms that enabled independent developers to release and commercialize software—he said agent-building tools could empower those with specialized knowledge, local insights, or unique hobbies to create and deploy AI-powered services.
He cited his own experience building AI agents for personal use: one educational utility to assist his daughter, another to support his mother’s daily routine and recovery, and a virtual staff member aiding an acquaintance in managing shop operations in Milan.
By providing accessible agent-building platforms, AI can enable professionals and hobbyists alike to develop businesses and services tailored to their expertise, said Lu.
Other leaders in the blockchain sector have acknowledged the opportunities but also flagged significant risks. Yat Siu, chairman of Animoca Brands, commented in an October interview that crypto traders might task AI agents to execute trades around the clock. However, he warned that relying on external agent providers could put users at risk if their underlying service is not directly controlled.
Mini dictionary: Animoca Brands is a Hong Kong-based company known for developing and investing in blockchain gaming and Web3 projects, including non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and digital property rights.
As the intersection of AI and blockchain develops, industry voices have called for mechanisms to identify, regulate, and manage these intelligent agents and the platforms that support them.
