Why AI Agents Need Web3 ft. David Attermann

Welcome to Episode 10 of the Agents Unleashed Podcast — the show that helps you find signal in the noisy world of agentic AI. Hosted by Thomas Maybrier (Digital Media Producer, Valory), this episode dives into where Web3 AI is actually working with insights from guest David Attermann, Head of Web3 Investments at M31 Capital.In This Episode:David Attermann breaks down why verifiable privacy, composability, and on-chain autonomy are more than buzzwords: they’re essential components of real AI agents. He shares the investor's lens on what’s working, where real-world use cases are gaining traction, areas where Web2 adoption of crypto infrastructure is already underway.We also explore:- Why most AI agents aren't truly autonomous (yet)- The role of trusted execution environments (TEEs)- The evolution from speculative hype to practical, composable AI systems- Web3’s unique edge in secure, economically-incentivized AIChapters00:00 Introduction02:00 David’s background in Web2 infrastructure and AI02:45 His shift from traditional finance to blockchain03:30 The advantages David saw in Web3 and how they've changed over time09:23 Why the most useful AI agents must be autonomous13:40 Incentive design as a strength of Web316:40 Where David finds AI most useful18:45 Promising potential - where AI isn't meeting expectations (yet)22:27 How AI agents could help us with our blind spots25:00 On the "developers are dead" narrative26:18 The 30k foot view: An investor's perspective on AI 20:10 What Web2 still doesn’t understand about Web3 AI32:55 Stronger together: a call to action for AI and Web3 teamsAgents Unleashed: Cannes — June 30, 2025The event is free, but space is limited.RSVP here: https://lu.ma/tp6rhykzResources & Links:David Attermann at M31 Capital: https://m31.ventures/David on X: @atterX_ Sponsored by Olas — the best way to own and monetize your AI agents. Learn more at https://www.olas.network🎵 Theme music: "Forward" by Grand Project on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/users/grand_project-19033897/💬 Like, subscribe, and leave a comment! Follow Thomas on X: @ThomasMaybrierRun your own AI agent today → https://olas.network