"The Riff" with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg

E60: Trump Coin, US Industrial Policy, and TikTok Ban

Jan 23, 2025

This discussion delves into Trump's cryptocurrency ventures and the evolving world of meme investments. It highlights the influence of social media on markets and the complexities of ethical investing. There’s also a critical look at China's economic challenges and the unexpected economic potential of Japan. The podcast explores the shifting political landscape surrounding TikTok, noting bipartisan concerns over its influence. Listeners are taken through the intricate tapestry of U.S. industrial policy and its implications for future geopolitical dynamics.

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Quick takeaways

Trump's cryptocurrency launch marks a notable shift in financial strategies, emphasizing the evolving intersection of politics and technology.

Meme stocks and coins highlight a new era of investment where social media trends can significantly influence market behavior and engagement.

The discussion on U.S. industrial policy underscores the need for strategic investments to maintain competitiveness and national security amid global challenges.

Deep dives

Exploring Modern Relationships

The podcast introduces a new show that focuses on the dynamics of modern relationships, particularly among ambitious individuals in the tech world. It highlights discussions with influential couples and relationship experts, inviting insights on how technology is reshaping romantic partnerships. One featured couple, technology founders who navigate the complexities of marriage and parenthood, share raw and honest perspectives on their journey. The conversations aim to resonate with listeners at various relationship stages, from dating to marriage, providing relatable insights and valuable guidance.

Intro

2min

Investing with Values: Meme Markets and Social Trends

7min

Navigating Political Extremity and Future Landscapes

10min

Unexpected Media Recognition and Sponsor Introductions

3min

The Intricacies of High-Skilled Immigration and Political Ideologies

11min

Industrial Policy and Geopolitical Challenges

19min

Political Dynamics and Digital Influence

10min

On this week's episode of The Riff, Erik Torenberg and Byrne Hobart explore the impact of technological change on markets, touching on meme investments, ESG, the rise of meme stocks and coins, Trump’s policies, China’s economic strategies, industrial policy debates, and how these factors could shape the future political and economic landscape.

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🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse.

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Highlights from the Episode:

Trump's recent cryptocurrency launch represents a significant shift in his financial strategy.
Meme coins/markets serve as a way to quantify social media competition and turn online engagement into measurable outcomes.
China's growth model succeeded in transitioning from low to middle income but faces difficulties reaching high-income status.
Japanese 30-year bonds now yield more than Chinese ones, suggesting market expects higher long-term growth in Japan.
Bipartisan concerns over TikTok's influence and Chinese ownership, coupled with Trump's reversal on the ban, highlight shifting political coalitions.

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RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. Founders Fund's Delian Asparouhov and researcher Nadia Asparouhova kick off the series with an unfiltered conversation about their relationship evolution.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod

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LINKS:

Byrne’s writing: https://thediff.co

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X / TWITTER:

https://twitter.com/ByrneHobart (Byrne)

https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia (Turpentine)

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