The Rise of Agentic AI: What It Means for Consumer Behavior and Trust

As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, the conversation is shifting from what AI can generate to what it can do.

In the latest episode of The New Mainstream Podcast, Michael Nevski joins Mario Carrasco to explore the next phase of AI: agentic systems and their implications for consumer behavior, payments, and trust.

Michael Nevski, Director of Global Insights at Visa, brings a unique perspective at the intersection of data, economics, and real-world consumer decision-making. Recognized as one of the most influential professionals in the insights industry, he shares how emerging technologies are reshaping how we understand and interact with consumers.

From Generative to Agentic AI

While generative AI has transformed content creation and automation, agentic AI introduces a new paradigm. These systems don’t just assist, they act.

From making purchases to managing financial decisions, AI agents have the potential to operate on behalf of consumers. This shift raises important questions:

• How much control are consumers willing to delegate?
• What role does trust play when machines make decisions?
• How should brands prepare for a world where AI intermediates transactions?

The Future of Payments and Consumer Trust

In industries like finance and payments, the implications are even more significant.

As AI begins to participate in transactions, trust becomes a central pillar. Consumers are not just evaluating brands anymore; they are evaluating systems.

This evolution challenges companies to rethink:

• Security frameworks
• Transparency in decision-making
• The role of human oversight

For brands, this is not just a technological shift. It’s a behavioral shift.

Why This Matters for Insights Leaders

Understanding how consumers feel about AI acting on their behalf will be critical for future growth.

As Michael highlights, the opportunity lies in translating complex data into actionable insights that help organizations navigate uncertainty, anticipate behavior, and build trust in an AI-driven economy.

The brands that succeed will be those that understand not only the technology, but the human response to it.

Listen to the full episode of The New Mainstream Podcast and explore how agentic AI is shaping the future of consumer behavior.