From the perspective of a16z, cryptocurrency is not just about trading coins, but has been elevated to the level of national strategy. The following are the core viewpoints on the future of cryptocurrency:

1. From financial instruments to national strategic assets

Strategic Position: a16z believes that cryptocurrency technology and AI are two core foundational technologies for the coming decades. Cryptocurrency technology is seen as a key infrastructure that the United States must control to maintain its leadership in the global technology and financial sectors.

Confrontation: In the context of global geopolitical competition, if the United States does not dominate cryptocurrency standards, other countries will. Therefore, cryptocurrency has been incorporated into the grand narrative of 'American vitality.'

2. Building the value internet

Ownership: The future internet will shift from Web2 (where large companies monopolize data) to Web3. Cryptographic technology provides a layer of 'ownership', allowing users and developers to truly own their data, identity, and assets.

Coordination mechanism: Cryptography is not just currency; it is also a social coordination technology. It allows large-scale strangers to collaborate in trust through smart contracts, which is particularly important for payments and interactions between AI Agents (AI cannot open bank accounts but can use crypto wallets).

3. Deep involvement of policies and regulations

Active lobbying: a16z has invested heavily in building a policy team to reshape Washington's view of cryptocurrency.

Future expectations: As the regulatory environment clarifies (a16z betting that policies will turn favorable), the crypto industry will shift from the Wild West to compliance and scalable applications. This includes the proliferation of stablecoins and the integration of DeFi with traditional finance.

4. Technology integration: AI + Crypto

AI's currency: Articles and a16z partners have repeatedly mentioned that crypto will be the native currency for AI. As thousands of AI Agents operate on the internet, they need a permissionless, programmable way to exchange value, which is where cryptographic technology comes into play.