When Technology Serves Humanity | Amit Pradhan

How do we navigate a century defined by "God-like technologies" while still operating within "Stone Age" institutions? Join Zoltan Ács, Director of the Vienna Institute for Global Studies (VIGS) , in a profound conversation with impact investor and technologist Amit. In this episode, we dive into the shifting architecture of our global economy—from the death of cash to the rise of agentic frameworks where AI transacts on our behalf. Amit challenges the traditional "Silicon Valley mindset" that prioritizes the how over the why, arguing instead for a future where sociocultural needs drive innovation. What You’ll Learn: The Death of Intent-Based Transactions: Why 90% of our future financial interactions will be handled by autonomous agents. Technology as a Sociocultural Shift: Why digital and crypto adoption is skyrocketing in Africa and South America. The "Net Positive" Lens: How to build companies that serve the 200 million displaced people currently lacking a legal identity. Purpose vs. Permanence: Why the next generation of value-creators is moving away from status-seeking toward mission-driven impact. About the Guest: Amit is an impact investor and founder of Rainfall. His work focuses on creating a net positive impact on humanity through decentralized AI and self-sovereign identity. About the Host: Zoltan Ács is the Director of the Vienna Institute for Global Studies (VIGS). He is a scholar and leader dedicated to exploring the ideas and human stories that will define the next 25 years.