What is an AI agent and how does it differ from regular AI?

An AI agent is an autonomous software program that can perceive its environment, make decisions, and take actions without constant human direction. Unlike regular AI that processes data and provides outputs based on training, agents can independently pursue goals, learn from outcomes, and adapt strategies. In crypto, AI agents might autonomously execute trades, manage portfolios, or monitor market conditions 24/7. For example, a trading agent could automatically buy Bitcoin when certain price conditions are met, or rebalance a portfolio across multiple assets. The key difference is autonomy—regular AI answers questions or performs tasks when prompted, while agents operate independently and make real-time decisions based on predefined rules or learned patterns.