In a recent discussion, Balaji Srinivasan, the former Chief Technology Officer of Coinbase, shared his vision of the future where cryptocurrency plays a pivotal role in an era dominated by artificial intelligence and robotics. According to Srinivasan, cryptocurrency will be the backbone of this revolution, serving as a medium of exchange and a means to distinguish human activities from those of artificial intelligence.

The Shift to Crypto

Srinivasan believes that "money after AI is crypto." He suggests that in a future where AI and robotics create abundance, cryptocurrency will be essential due to its inherent scarcity. This scarcity will be crucial in distinguishing human activities from those of artificial intelligence, especially when AI tools can easily mimic human actions. Moreover, Srinivasan highlights that while many forms of scarcity might diminish, some will persist, such as the infrastructure needed to build and power these advanced technologies.

Digital Keys and AI Control

The control over these advanced machines will hinge on secure digital keys. "The most important form of scarcity in the AI age are the private keys to control the robots," Srinivasan said. He emphasizes that Web3 technologies like Bitcoin and Ethereum provide the necessary security to manage these keys effectively.

Crypto's Role in the AI-Driven Future

In essence, Srinivasan's vision presents a future where crypto is not just a financial tool but a fundamental component of economic transactions in a world dominated by AI and robotics. This perspective underscores the ongoing evolution of money and technology. It suggests that as AI continues to grow, so will the need for secure, scarce, and versatile forms of currency like crypto.