Talking Tokens Muneeb Ali | Why Bitcoin Layer 2s Are Suddenly Getting Interesting
Jun 10, 2025
Muneeb Ali, founder of Stacks and Princeton PhD, discusses the evolution of Bitcoin as a programmable asset. He shares insights into why Bitcoin's Layer 2 solutions are finally gaining traction, addressing topics like the rising interest in Stacks SBTC and the importance of self-custodial solutions. Muneeb highlights the shift from viewing Bitcoin merely as a store of value to recognizing its potential in decentralized finance. He also explores the future of Bitcoin in institutional adoption and the vital role of humility and continuous learning in the crypto space.
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Muneeb Ali's Bitcoin Journey
- Muneeb Ali was introduced to Bitcoin in 2013 while completing his PhD at Princeton.
- He has since focused on bringing Ethereum-like programmability to Bitcoin through Layer 2 solutions.
Bitcoin Needs Layer 2s
- Bitcoin's relationship with its Layer 2s is unique because Bitcoin itself is not programmable or competing.
- These Layer 2s increase Bitcoin's scalability and value rather than cannibalizing it like in Ethereum.
Bitcoin Yield on Layer 2s
- Bitcoin holders have strong incentive to never sell and prefer borrowing against their BTC to earn yield.
- Layer 2s enable effective Bitcoin lending and yield opportunities without losing ownership.