Circle’s Vision: A Native Economic Layer for the Internet

Luisa Crawford
Dec 16, 2025 17:48

Circle’s CPTO Nikhil Chandok discusses the need for a native economic layer on the internet, emphasizing decentralization and AI’s role in shaping online activities.

Circle’s Chief Product and Technology Officer, Nikhil Chandok, recently shared his insights on The Milk Road Show, emphasizing the need for a native economic layer on the internet. According to Chandok, while the internet has successfully established a global information layer, it lacks an integrated economic system that allows value to move as seamlessly as information.

The Case for a Native Economic Layer

Chandok argues that the current payment systems are an outdated patchwork, ill-suited for the demands of global access, automation, and machine-driven transactions. As artificial intelligence begins to dominate online activities, the internet will require a programmable, open, and globally accessible monetary system to facilitate these interactions. This vision aligns with Circle’s broader mission to create open financial infrastructure.

Decentralization and Open Systems

In the discussion, Chandok highlights the importance of decentralization and openness, especially in an AI-driven landscape. He draws parallels between the resilient protocols that underpin today’s internet and the necessity for similar structures in economic systems. Chandok stresses that no single entity should control these systems, advocating for a collaborative and open approach to developing economic infrastructure.

Implications for the Future

This perspective reflects Circle’s strategic focus on building responsibly and supporting open infrastructure. The company aims to prepare the web for a future where programmable value is as crucial as programmable information. As AI continues to expand its role in digital interactions, the integration of a native economic layer could transform how value is exchanged online.

For additional insights, you can view the full interview with Nikhil Chandok on The Milk Road Show via [Circle](https://www.circle.com/blog/why-the-internet-needs-a-native-economic-layer-nikhil-chandok-on-the-milk-road-show).

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