Mastercard and Visa innovate with AI agents for autonomous shopping

In early May 2025, Mastercard and Visa launched innovative AI technologies enabling intelligent software agents to make purchases on behalf of consumers. This new capability, referred to as agentic commerce, marks a significant leap forward in the payments industry, allowing these AI agents to conduct the entire purchasing process, from product discovery to secure transaction execution, adapting to user preferences effectively. Mastercard introduced its AI technology called Agent Pay, which utilizes a robust tokenization system to ensure secure transactions while maintaining consumer control over their spending activities. Similarly, Visa unveiled its Visa Intelligent Commerce initiative, focusing on task automation and internal operational efficiencies using AI. The emergence of these AI agents responds to a growing consumer demand for seamless shopping experiences that prioritize safety and efficiency. As these companies refine their offerings, they are also emphasizing the importance of building trust and security in AI-mediated transactions, aiming to create a reliable infrastructure for digital commerce. With the enhanced functionality provided by AI, users can engage with these platforms in new ways, such as issuing complex requests for services like catering within specific budget constraints. As AI technology becomes more integrated into daily transactions, privacy and security concerns persist. The companies are aware that the collection and analysis of user data could raise significant issues regarding consumer privacy. To address these concerns, both Mastercard and Visa have committed to maintaining a secure environment for consumers transacting through AI agents and are implementing measures to monitor agent-led transactions in a way that enhances security and mitigates fraud. This dual focus on innovation and security is likely to transform user expectations around shopping and transaction management in the years to come. This advancement signifies a shift from passive digital wallet solutions to more active, AI-driven agents that facilitate commerce in real-time, further embedding technology into everyday financial interactions. As more partnerships with AI platforms develop, consumers may soon find these autonomous agents not just beneficial for online shopping but indispensable in managing their purchases and financial activities. The implications for the retail and payments sector are vast, reflecting a broader trend toward digitized experiences.