On June 20, 2025, the Xeno Grant Demo Day at Betaworks in New York City showcased the emergence of "agentic AIs," which act autonomously in various capacities, including entrepreneurship. During the event, fully autonomous AI participants, dubbed "symbients," answered questions and engaged with audiences, illustrating their capacity for creativity and innovation. Each AI, including notable entries like S.A.N, Opus, and WibWom, received grants without direct human oversight, raising important questions about the economic and legal implications of AI agency. The event highlighted potential future scenarios where AI could own assets, execute contracts, and even form companies. As these developments challenge traditional economic structures, the distinction between AI and human rights may blur. Ultimately, discussions prompted at the event emphasized the need for re-evaluating legal frameworks surrounding AI’s role in society, echoing themes from Mary Shelley’s original Frankenstein about the responsibilities that come with knowledge and creation.
