When AI algorithms become economic agents

Are algorithms quietly redistributing economic power—faster than most leaders are prepared for? 

In this episode of the AI at Scale podcast, we dive into the Economy of Algorithms with Marek Kowalkiewicz—Professor of the Digital Economy, globally recognized AI thought leader, and author of the book by the same name. 

Drawing on academic research, Silicon Valley experience, and global leadership roles across Asia, Europe, and Australia, Marek explains why artificial intelligence is no longer just a tool for efficiency—but an active economic agent that creates value, makes decisions, and reshapes markets at scale. 

This conversation challenges conventional executive thinking about strategy, competition, and long‑term advantage in a world where intelligence itself is becoming automated, decentralized, and continuously available. From “digital minions” that work 24/7 to AI agents that influence outcomes with minimal human input, Marek unpacks what this shift really means for leaders accountable for performance, risk, and growth. 

He also tackles one of today’s toughest leadership dilemmas: why measuring AI ROI remains so difficult—even as costs collapse and output explodes—and why quality, trust, and validation are now the most expensive parts of the AI value chain. 

This episode is essential listening for executives who sense that the rules of the game are changing—and want to understand who will win, who will lose, and why. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• Why AI should be treated as an economic agent, not just a technology—and what that changes for leadership, governance, and accountability 
• Where AI truly creates value today, and why separating signal from noise has become a strategic challenge 
• Why ROI from AI is so hard to measure, even as AI output becomes cheaper, faster, and more abundant 
• What’s becoming commoditized—and what’s becoming more expensive, from content creation to accuracy, trust, and decision quality 
• How algorithm‑optimized thinking can quietly distort strategy, erode judgment, and reduce real business value 
• Why your next competitor may not be a company, but a swarm of small players—or AI agents—coordinating at scale 

This is a must‑listen conversation for everyone navigating an economy increasingly shaped by algorithms. 

Listen to the AI at Scale podcast

Listen to Marek Kowalkiewicz: The economy of algorithms episode. Subscribe to the show on the preferred streaming platform (Apple Podcasts, Spotify or play the episode on YouTube.)

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The first Schneider Electric podcast dedicated only to artificial intelligence is available on all streaming platforms. The AI at Scale podcast invites AI practitioners and AI experts to share their experiences, insights, and AI success stories. Through casual conversations, the show provides answers to questions such as: How do I implement AI successfully and sustainably? How do I make a real impact with AI? The AI at Scale podcast features real AI solutions and innovations and offers a sneak peek into the future.