Stripe has launched Tempo, a Layer 1 blockchain designed for stablecoin transactions, integrating AI capabilities through its Machine Payments Protocol. Debuted on March 18, Tempo allows AI agents to autonomously execute real-time payments, facilitating high-frequency, low-value transactions economically. This development follows Stripe's $1.1 billion acquisition of Bridge in 2025, which provided the necessary tools for building a crypto-native payments layer. The Machine Payments Protocol supports AI-operated micropayments and real-time settlements, with early partners like Visa, Nubank, Shopify, and Klarna exploring its potential. Stripe's expansion into stablecoin payments aims to meet the demand from businesses in regions with volatile currencies, offering stable dollar-based accounts without a US banking relationship. This move marks Stripe's strategic return to the crypto space, emphasizing practicality and efficiency in digital transactions.