The Opposition to a Gold Standard

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Ben Cohen: Why can't a Bitcoin based or crypto based algorithmic monetary system of some kind do all of these things? He says the reason governments left the gold standard was that it constrained them so much both for doing things like fighting a war, but also extending credit to an economy and growing an economy. "What would actually happen in wars is that you would debase a currency," he said.

There are bank runs and also rumors of more bank runs on the horizon. One side says, “the banks are insolvent, get to the lifeboats.” Another side says, “the banks are going to be fine…we’re sick and tired of doomers pulling the fire alarm.” Who’s right?

This is our third episode in a series of conversations. To get the full debate you’ll need to listen to the last two episodes with Balaji Srinivasan and Arthur Hayes.

In this episode, we’re speaking with Ben Hunt who lays out the counterpoint details on why banks are going to be fine. He believes Balaji and Arthur are dangerously wrong. Tune in to hear why!

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------ Timestamps

0:00 Intro 6:55 Ben’s Crypto Credentials 10:36 Critiques of the Fed 16:55 Ben’s Understanding of Balaji’s Thesis 24:33 What Ben Believes is Untrue 33:42 Treasuries Are the Safest Assets? 43:34 Ben’s Objection 45:55 Icebergs 50:52 Fiat is Better? 57:45 Step Back for Society? 1:02:26 Checks on Power 1:07:39 Rules-Based Monetary Policy 1:12:30 How to Fix the Fed 1:15:35 Closing & Disclaimers

------ Resources:

Previous Debates https://www.bankless.com/balaji-bets-the-dollar-will-hyperinflate-to-zero-not-a-drill https://www.bankless.com/arthur-hayes-says-get-your-bitcoin-and-get-out

Ben Hunt https://twitter.com/EpsilonTheory

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