CoinDesk Podcast Network Charles Hoskinson Warns Partisan Politics Could Kill Crypto in the U.S.
Jan 22, 2026
Charles Hoskinson, Founder of Input Output and creator of Cardano, shares his insights on the crypto landscape. He discusses why network growth isn't translating to token prices and highlights concerns about new U.S. legislation potentially favoring banks. Hoskinson warns of political corruption and the dangers of weaponized crypto policy. He also emphasizes the need for better user experiences in crypto, advocating for practical solutions like Lace ID for decentralized identity. His perspectives on geopolitical risks and recession further enrich the conversation.
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Layer 1s Mature Without Token Pumps
- Layer 1 networks saw TVL and activity grow while token prices lagged, signaling industry maturation rather than speculative spikes.
- Charles Hoskinson says fundamentals improved but macro and political shocks suppressed valuation upside.
Macro Shocks Keep Crypto Pressured
- Geopolitical shocks and macro-policy instability repeatedly disrupted crypto rallies in 2025.
- Hoskinson links market interruptions to political actions, tariffs, and unpredictable global events.
Prioritize Utility Over Marketing Spend
- Build products with clear utility and novel consumer experiences instead of relying on large marketing budgets.
- Focus on seamless phone UX, easy account recovery, and dApps people actually care about to drive mainstream adoption.
