Investing.com — Agentic AI, identified as the next big wave in artificial intelligence, is poised to redefine the landscape of technology and its applications.
According to analysts at BofA Global Research, this new generation of AI goes beyond current generative AI tools, such as chatbots and copilots, by introducing autonomous decision-making agents capable of performing complex tasks without explicit human instructions.
Agent-based artificial intelligence refers to a class of advanced underlying models that act as operating systems for autonomous agents.
These agents possess enhanced reasoning abilities and the ability to take independent actions to achieve specific goals.
Unlike earlier iterations of artificial intelligence, which primarily responded to predefined inputs, Agentic AI is proactive.
It can plan, learn from its environment, and interact with other systems to complete tasks ranging from software engineering to logistics, often with minimal human intervention.
The emergence of Agentic AI marks the astonishing speed of AI evolution. Just two years after the debut of ChatGPT and the widespread adoption of generative artificial intelligence, this third wave signals a shift toward systems that are not just tools, but autonomous collaborators.
BofA suggests that this transition outpaces earlier technology waves, such as the adoption of personal computers and the Internet.
The implications of Agentic AI are huge. Fully autonomous fleets of digital agents and robots could revolutionize industries heavily dependent on human labor, ushering in a “corporate efficiency revolution.”
Sectors such as manufacturing, customer service, logistics and healthcare can benefit significantly.
For example, robots that companies like Amazon (NASDAQ: ) and DHL have integrated into warehouses have already demonstrated the potential of such technology, achieving greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Moreover, the ability of Agentic AI systems to autonomously manage complex, open-ended tasks could accelerate the deployment of AI in roles that traditionally require high levels of human skill and judgment.
This includes not only routine operational tasks but also more specialized functions in areas such as biopharmaceuticals, education and cyber security.
While Agentic AI offers transformative benefits, its rapid adoption also raises concerns. Job displacement, especially in areas that rely on physical and cognitive work, is a potential downside.
For example, BofA analysts note that within eight months of ChatGPT’s launch, freelance writing and coding roles have seen a significant decline.
The expansion of Agentic AI capabilities into physical domains—such as construction, landscaping, and care—could further exacerbate this trend.
Conversely, the rise of Agentic AI could spur innovation and create new economic opportunities. Thousands of AI-focused startups are expected to emerge, using advanced technologies to introduce scalable solutions across industries.
This wave of “AI dot-com” companies could redefine business models and generate new job categories over the next decade.
Despite the emergence of Agentic AI, the AI revolution has not yet reached its peak. Instead, AI is entering a supercycle of innovation, where advances in the field drive the development of more sophisticated applications.
Global economic growth will experience unprecedented changes as this wave unfolds, resulting in workforce reshaping, new business models and increased productivity.
