Crypto cycles have always topped on a four-year rhythm, but are we heading for a Q4 2025 peak or an extended run into 2026?
Michael Nadeau from The DeFi Report joins Ryan to break down the onchain and macro signals shaping this cycle. We cover Powell’s dovish pivot at Jackson Hole, global liquidity trends, and why loosening bank lending standards could fuel risk-on markets. Michael explains how whale Bitcoin selling, ETH’s breakout, and muted altcoin flows fit into the bigger cycle map. Finally, we dive into portfolio strategy, from core holdings to high-beta “hot sauce” bets, and why holding fewer, higher-conviction assets is the edge most investors miss.
Michael Nadeau & The DeFi Report:
https://x.com/JustDeauIt
https://thedefireport.io
https://thedefireport.io/research/how-many-assets-should-you-hold-in-a-crypto-portfolio#closing-thoughts

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TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Intro
3:01 Global Liquidity Insights
6:44 Market Valuations Discussion
9:53 Lending Standards & Bank Activity
11:49 Powell's Impact on Markets
15:34 Inflation and Market Psychology
17:38 Bitcoin Fear and Greed Index
18:58 Long-term vs Short-term Holders
22:45 Realized Price vs Market Value
26:34 Altcoin Market Dynamics
31:19 Extended Cycle vs Classic Cycle
35:06 Portfolio Construction Strategies
39:27 Core vs Non-Core Asset Holdings
43:10 High Beta Assets Explained
45:54 Cash Allocation Strategies
54:05 Upcoming Research and Reports
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Not financial or tax advice. See our investment disclosures here:
https://www.bankless.com/disclosures

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