// GLOSSARY -- AGENTIC FINANCE
What is Agent Identity?
Agent identity is the verifiable attributes uniquely identifying an AI agent in transactions — wallet address, operator credentials, framework metadata, and attestation chain enabling counterparty authentication.
WHY IT MATTERS
Humans have IDs and biometrics. Agents need verifiable identities too — any software can claim to be trusted.
Identity spans layers: wallet address (what it controls), operator (who deployed), framework (what runs it), attestation (who vouches). Together they create a trust profile.
Without strong identity, meaningful controls, audit trails, and compliance are impossible.
HOW POLICYLAYER USES THIS
PolicyLayer ties spending controls to verified identities. Policies bind to credentials, preventing transfer or impersonation — every transaction is attributable.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
vs. wallet address?
Address identifies what the agent controls, not who operates it or what runs it. Full identity includes all dimensions.
Multiple identities?
Yes — production vs. test, for example. PolicyLayer tracks each with distinct policies.
What standards?
Evolving: A2A Agent Cards, W3C VCs, DIDs. No dominant standard yet.