Breaking Analysis with Dave Vellante 2026 Data Predictions: Scaling Agents via Contextual Intelligence
Jan 17, 2026
Join industry experts Sanjeev Mohan, Tony Baer, Dave Menninger, Kevin Petrie, and Andrew Brust as they tackle the future of AI in the data landscape. They're diving deep into the challenges of scaling AI agents, discussing the critical role of context graphs. Predictions include a shift toward integrated autonomous agents and semantic layers, while governance and integration complexities emerge as potential roadblocks. With insights on model wars and enterprise opportunities, this conversation is a must-listen for tech enthusiasts!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Agents Proliferated But Remain Narrow
- Agent proliferation occurred but primarily as single-task specialists rather than integrated autonomous agents.
- Sanjeev Mohan says true embedded, autonomous agents across complex workflows are still not here.
Data Renaissance Drives New Standards
- Data regained attention as AI demanded better inputs, sparking vendor activity and standards like MCP.
- Tony Baer notes Postgres entrants, Iceberg adoption, and vectors becoming table stakes in 2025.
Knowledge Graph Adoption Stalled
- Knowledge graph production adoption barely budged despite heavy discussion and vendor interest.
- Kevin Petrie reports only a marginal increase from 26% to 27% adoption among AI adopters.