The Scoop

In this engaging discussion, Josh Neuroth, VP of Product at QuickNode, dives into how traditional financial institutions are embracing blockchain technology amid a surge of developer activity. With QuickNode's high-performance infrastructure at the forefront, they highlight the shift to blockchain as a service and the importance of tailored solutions for enterprise adoption. Neuroth also shares insights on the transition from web 2 to web 3 and the promising future of tokenizing real-world assets, showcasing how QuickNode supports both emerging projects and established players.

The Scoop's host, Frank Chaparro, was joined by Custodia Bank Founder and CEO Caitlin Long.In this episode, Chaparro and Long discussed the state of crypto banking, the potential restructuring of regulations under the Trump administration, and the Federal Reserve's stance on crypto.OUTLINE 00:00 Introduction1:39 Powell’s crypto remarks3:02 Custodia and the Fed7:19 Trump’s crypto executive order8:34 Banks’ path to crypto custody12:12 12 month forecast17:51 State of crypto banking24:34 The Crypto Vote30:15 Trump’s meme coin32:50 Privatising fed wire38:40 Crypto in Wyoming41:25 Closing thoughtsGUEST LINKSCaitlin Long - https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlin-long-/Caitlin Long on X - https://x.com/CaitlinLong_Custodia Bank - https://custodiabank.com/Custodia Bank on X - https://x.com/CustodiaBank

Tony Fenner-Leitão, President of Cambrian Asset Management, dives into the exciting blend of crypto and finance. He discusses how spot ETFs have revolutionized market dynamics and attracted institutional players. Fenner-Leitão shares insights on leveraging machine learning for investment strategies while navigating crypto's volatility. He also highlights the shift in regulatory landscapes and its potential to foster innovation, ultimately enhancing market liquidity. The conversation touches on the evolving relationship between active management and venture capital in this rapidly changing market.

Jason Zhao, Co-founder of Story Protocol, dives deep into the transformative role of AI in the $60 trillion intellectual property landscape. He discusses how blockchain empowers creators to monetize their work without intermediaries, democratizing access to creativity. Zhao offers insights on navigating the AI space for beginners and explores the intricacies of IP in an AI-driven world, balancing authenticity and protection. The conversation uncovers the challenges and innovations reshaping how knowledge is valued and exchanged.

David Mercer, CEO of LMAX Group, shares insights on the growing institutional adoption of crypto, driven by major banks entering the market. He discusses how increased interoperability between traditional finance and crypto could enable seamless asset movement, enhancing overall stability. Mercer highlights the importance of regulatory improvements and competent credit offerings in fostering sustainable growth. With a focus on technology solutions, he outlines a bullish outlook for the future of crypto amid evolving financial landscapes.

Tom Schmidt, a Partner at Dragonfly, shares his insights on the evolving cryptocurrency landscape. He discusses how crypto is becoming a legitimate institutional asset by 2025 and the unique challenges facing venture capital in this space. Schmidt highlights the shift from price-driven token models to application-based usage, emphasizing innovation over hype. He also explores new customer acquisition strategies and the potential recovery of the market, signifying a promising future for crypto startups.

In a riveting discussion, Larry Cermak, CEO of The Block, Tim Copeland, Editor-in-Chief of The Block, and Forest Bai, Co-founder of Foresight Ventures, analyze the evolving crypto landscape. They dive into the implications of meme coins versus Bitcoin, the intriguing intersection of AI and blockchain, and the future of user experience in crypto trading. The trio also explores the significant gamble of firms like Microstrategy on Bitcoin and speculates on what 2025 may hold for the industry amidst emerging global challenges.

Jeff Garzik, co-founder of Hemi Labs and seasoned blockchain developer, shares insights on his innovative modular Layer 2 protocol connecting Bitcoin and Ethereum. He dives into ‘proof of proof’ security, detailing how it enhances transaction finality. Garzik reflects on Bitcoin's evolving role in DeFi and the challenges of decentralized governance. He also discusses the upcoming Hemi mainnet launch, the importance of dApps, and the vision for a multi-chain future, emphasizing user experience in an increasingly interconnected crypto landscape.

Edan Yago is the co-founder and CEO of BitcoinOS, a Layer 2 platform and "operating system" for Bitcoin.In this episode, Yago and The Block's Frank Chaparro discuss BitcoinOS and how Bitcoin can evolve from being just “digital gold” into a fully programmable, global ledger for ownership and financial innovation.OUTLINE00:00 – Introduction
02:17 – Bitcoin and digital property rights
04:40 – Bitcoin’s spirit of innovation
08:17– Bitcoin smart contracts vs. rival chains 
15:29 – Bitcoin DeFi’s value add
20:44 – Solving scalability
25:12 – Bitcoin, AI, and the next Trillion in assets
28:28 – The next five years
35:07 – Short term shifts37:42 - ConclusionGUEST LINKSEdan Yago - https://www.linkedin.com/in/edanyago/Edan Yago on X - https://x.com/edanyagoBitcoinOS - https://www.bitcoinos.build/BitcoinOS on X - https://x.com/BTC_OSThis episode is brought to you by our sponsor: PolkadotPolkadot is the blockspace ecosystem for boundless innovation. To discover more, head to polkadot.network

Zachary Townsend, co-founder and CEO of Meanwhile, delves into the revolutionary world of Bitcoin-denominated life insurance. He shares how this innovative model can protect policyholders against inflation and allow tax-free borrowing, presenting a unique solution for wealth transfer. The conversation also explores the challenges of navigating the complex interplay of insurance and cryptocurrency, and the importance of personalized communication in building trust with customers. Townsend's insights illuminate the future of insurance in the crypto economy.