Artificial intelligence-focused cryptocurrencies delivered the strongest returns across Grayscale’s sector framework in September, with NEAR Protocol nearly tripling in value as investors positioned for blockchain’s expanding role in the emerging AI-agent economy.

Grayscale’s AI crypto sector gained 54% during the month, more than doubling the broader crypto market’s 24% advance, according to a research note published Friday. NEAR led the group with a 183% monthly surge, followed by Venice (VVV) at 70%, World (WLD) at 47%, and Bittensor (TAO) at 37%.

NEAR traded above $4 over the weekend, extending its 30-day gain to more than 151%. The token has climbed over 211% since the start of the year and hit a one-month high on September…