Cato Podcast

Jon Hoffman, a Research Fellow at the Cato Institute, joins Justin Logan to tackle the complexities of U.S.-China competition in the Middle East. They debate the outdated justifications for U.S. policies tied to oil and terrorism, highlighting the futility of viewing this rivalry through a zero-sum lens. Hoffman critiques the military presence and examines China's distinct approach to the region. There's a keen focus on the diplomatic shifts, especially the thaw between Saudi Arabia and Iran led by China, challenging conventional threat perceptions.

What are stablecoins, how do they work, and what does the future hold for these innovative financial instruments? Join Norbert Michel and Jennifer Schulp from the Cato Institute's Center for Monetary and Financial Alternatives as they delve into the evolving landscape of stablecoin legislation. Whether you're a seasoned crypto enthusiast or just curious about digital currencies, this discussion will provide valuable insights into the regulatory environment and the potential impacts on the financial system.Show Notes:Jennifer J. Shculp, "Stablecoin Bills Galore, but How Do They Stack Up?", cato.org, February 27, 2025Jennifer J. Schulp, "Stablecoin Legislation Must Ensure Financial Privacy", CoinDesk, April 24, 2025Norbert Michel, "The GENIUS Act Is a Good Start, But Congress Could Make It Smarter", Forbes, June 4, 2025Jennider J. Schulp and Eleanor Mueller, "Stablecoins, Market Structure, and More – Evaluating the Crypto Legislative Landscape", Cato Institute Live Event, June 17, 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into the rollercoaster of Doge 1.0 during the Trump administration. Experts discuss the ambitious overhaul led by Elon Musk and the chaos that ensued. Discover the challenges of federal budget cuts and the clash over diversity programs. The podcast also critiques the tangled relationships between tech leaders and Congress. Reflect on the disillusionment within libertarians post-Trump, all while pondering the future of Doge 2.0 and the quest for efficient government amid laughter and insightful anecdotes.

The discussion kicks off with a deep dive into the age-old debate over misinformation. Historical examples, like the Cottingly fairies, reveal that misinformation has always been a challenge. The hosts argue against government regulation, suggesting it could hinder democratic discourse. They highlight the need for media literacy and education in navigating AI-generated content. Trust and competition are essential in fostering a healthy information landscape, emphasizing critical thinking over censorship. It's a thought-provoking take on truth in the digital age.

Explore the hidden world of financial surveillance and the Bank Secrecy Act's lasting effects on personal privacy. Discover how banks have become unwitting enforcers in a system that erodes our Fourth Amendment rights. Hear about the balancing act between government oversight and individual freedoms, and the chilling effects faced by institutions resisting scrutiny. Luckily, public awareness is rising, leading to new privacy-focused tech and potential legislative reforms that might restore your financial privacy!

The discussion dives into the complexities of new tax legislation moving through Congress, focusing on the urgent need to address impending tax hikes. They break down the intricate relationship between tax policy uncertainty and economic growth, advocating for permanent reforms. The speakers critique traditional depreciation methods, promoting full expensing as a better alternative. They also challenge the myths surrounding tariffs as a reliable revenue source, calling for a comprehensive tax overhaul to foster a pro-growth environment.

Exciting changes are coming with a new bi-weekly format featuring conversations among policy scholars. The hosts invite listeners to join in on discussions that promise to delve into pressing issues. There's also encouragement to explore more podcasts and engage with the community through social media. It's a fresh direction that's poised to enhance the listening experience!

Robert Alt, President of the Buckeye Institute and attorney for John Ream, dives into the fascinating legal battle over home distilling. Ream's case challenges federal laws that criminalize personal distillation, highlighting the contrast with home brewing regulations. Alt discusses the balance of state and federal authority in alcohol regulation and critiques the federal government's use of the Commerce Clause. The conversation also looks toward the future, advocating for deregulation to foster innovation in the craft distilling industry.

Caleb O. Brown hosted the Cato Daily Podcast for nearly 18 years, producing well over 4000 episodes. He has gone on to head Kentucky’s Bluegrass Institute. This is one among the best episodes produced in his tenure, selected by the host and listeners.The housing crunch affects so many parts of the country. In Arizona, it’s harder to build than you might think. Leo Biasiucci is the Republican majority whip of the state’s House of Representatives. We talked about how best to advance flexibility for new housing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caleb O. Brown hosted the Cato Daily Podcast for nearly 18 years, producing well over 4000 episodes. He has gone on to head Kentucky’s Bluegrass Institute. This is one among the best episodes produced in his tenure, selected by the host and listeners.The people who write the rules under which we must live generally ought to be subject to accountability from voters. That’s not a controversial proposition, but how it works in practice is more complicated. Daniel Dew of the Pacific Legal Foundation comments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.