In a recent interview with BeInCrypto at Consensus Hong Kong, Andrei Grachev, Managing Partner at DWF Labs, shared his insights on the rapid evolution of AI Agents, their increasing integration into Web3 and traditional tech sectors, and the challenges that come with mass adoption. His discussion highlighted the transformative potential of AI, the risks of misuse, and the crucial role of trust and responsible innovation in shaping the future of automation.
AI’s Growing Role in Web3 and Beyond
AI is no longer a futuristic concept, and is becoming an integral part of both traditional tech and Web3 ecosystems. Tech giants like Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon are collectively investing up to $320 billion in AI and data centers in 2025, while the U.S. government has launched a $100 billion AI infrastructure initiative through Stargate, a private joint venture with OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle.
Web3 projects are also making major strides in AI innovation. We recently launched a $20 million AI Agent fund, aiming to accelerate the development of autonomous AI technologies. Similarly, the NEAR Foundation announced its own $20 million fund to support fully autonomous agents built on the NEAR protocol.
Grachev believes AI-driven automation is inevitable:
‘History shows that everything that can be automated will be automated, and definitely some business and normal life processes will be overtaken by AI agents.’
However, he also acknowledged that as AI adoption accelerates, so do the risks of malicious use.
Risks of AI Technology
The rise of AI agents has already transformed Web3, facilitating everything from automated trading to market analysis. But this same technology is also fueling sophisticated cyber threats, such as phishing attacks and deepfake scams.
According to an Entrust report, AI-driven fraud has surged by 244% year-over-year, with deepfakes now accounting for 40% of all biometric fraud.
The Path to Mainstream AI Adoption
Despite these risks, Grachev remains optimistic. He compared AI’s early challenges to the initial phases of the Internet and Bitcoin, both of which were first adopted in controversial ways before evolving into mainstream technologies.
Grachev emphasised that early misuses of technology are part of a natural learning curve. As AI matures, better safeguards and regulations will emerge, helping to mitigate risks while preserving innovation.
One key challenge AI faces is trust. Many people remain skeptical of AI agents, especially when it comes to handling important decisions. Grachev believes that introducing AI in small, user-friendly ways can help build confidence over time.
For example, he suggested integrating AI into crypto trading by allowing users to launch memecoins through simple voice commands.
Responsible AI Development
As AI continues to evolve, balancing innovation with responsible implementation will be critical. Grachev sees education, adaptation, and regulatory frameworks as key to ensuring AI technologically is used optimally while minimising risks.
With AI agents playing an increasingly prominent role in Web3 and beyond, DWF Labs is a leader during this transformation, investing in innovative AI technologies while advocating for responsible AI adoption.
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