What Bitcoin Did

Lawrence Lepard, an investment manager and author of The Big Print, dives deep into the impending risks of inflation and the challenges facing the dollar system. He argues that the Fed is caught in a cycle of money printing, which could lead to hyperinflation. Lepard discusses how America may be in a 'fourth turning' and highlights the surge in gold prices as a signal of shifting trust. He passionately makes the case for Bitcoin as an escape route, projecting it could reach $1 million amid ongoing monetary policy failures.

Pete Rizzo, a Bitcoin journalist and commentator, discusses the evolving landscape of Bitcoin culture and institutional adoption. He explores how Trump's executive orders have shaped a strategic Bitcoin reserve and the implications for institutions. Rizzo examines the shift from grassroots self-custody to institutional financialization, highlighting Michael Saylor's vision. He raises concerns about the viability of treasury companies in a bear market, questioning if they can truly outperform Bitcoin itself.

Freddie New, CEO of B-HODL and an advocate for Bitcoin policy in the UK, discusses the revolutionary potential of Bitcoin treasury companies. He highlights B-HODL’s innovative approach to financing, emphasizing the need for sustainable scaling without leverage. Freddie explores why institutions will soon have to include Bitcoin on their balance sheets and how Lightning Network operations can generate real revenue. He also warns about the risks treasury companies face in a bear market and the importance of having a strong Bitcoin voice in UK finance and politics.

James Lavish, co-managing partner of the Bitcoin Opportunity Fund, shares insights on the financial landscape. He discusses how rampant debt and global liquidity trends are priming Bitcoin for a major surge. The conversation covers the Federal Reserve's dilemma between inflation and recession, the impact of institutional investments, and why Bitcoin stands as a hedge against traditional financial systems. Lavish argues for Bitcoin's role as neutral, permissionless money in a world gripped by economic uncertainty.

Eric Yakes, author of "The 7th Property" and founder of Epoch, dives into his bold prediction that Bitcoin could skyrocket to $10 million. He discusses the cultural revolutions and institutional adoption fueling this growth. The conversation highlights how belief and narrative shape market dynamics more than fundamentals do. Yakes also explores what a Bitcoin-dominant world might entail, from shifts in time preference to new financial architectures, and the challenges posed by traditional banking versus emerging fintech solutions.

John Scott-Railton, a Senior Researcher at Citizen Lab, investigates the alarming world of spyware like Pegasus and its implications for privacy and freedom. He reveals how governments misuse surveillance tech to silence dissent, targeting journalists and activists. The conversation dives into the evolution of spyware, the role of corporate data brokers, and how AI may exacerbate surveillance issues. Scott-Railton also warns about potential threats to Bitcoin from state overreach, prompting a vital discussion on the balance between safety and individual rights.

Vijay Selvam, an attorney and former Goldman Sachs employee, discusses the groundbreaking principles of Bitcoin and its potential to reshape governance. He delves into the concept of digital scarcity and how Bitcoin serves as a tool against authoritarianism. Vijay contrasts the separation of money from the state with historical separations like church and state. He warns of internal threats to Bitcoin and emphasizes its role as a mirror for self-reflection and a catalyst for freedom, transcending mere financial implications.

Rod Roudi, co-founder of Bitcoin Park and the 256 Foundation, dives into the exciting world where Bitcoin meets AI and energy innovation. He shares incredible stories, like how Bitcoin Park solo-mined a block against the odds. Grassroots movements are highlighted as crucial for Bitcoin's future, along with the rise of localized meetups. Rod emphasizes community-driven education and the transformative potential of new projects like BitAxe. He also discusses the importance of entrepreneurial grit in the age of automation and how AI can enhance various workflows.

In a lively discussion, American HODL, a Bitcoin commentator known for his vlogs, and Steven Lubka from Nakamoto, dissect the rise of Bitcoin treasury companies. They explore whether these entities are a healthy bridge to mainstream adoption or just a speculative bubble. The duo dives into strategies for navigating bear markets, the morality of treasury operators, and the impact of securitization on the Bitcoin landscape. Their insights provoke thoughts on Bitcoin's integration into public markets and future investment dynamics.

Willy Woo, a renowned Bitcoin analyst and fund manager, dives deep into the intricate landscape of cryptocurrency. He discusses how institutional investments, especially from firms like BlackRock, are reshaping Bitcoin's market dynamics. Willy foresees that 2026 could mark Bitcoin's first true business cycle downturn and explains the impact of liquidity waves on market behavior. He also touches on the transition from fiat to Bitcoin, the effects of ETFs on price volatility, and the strategic shifts in ownership preferences among institutional players.