

The Breakdown
Blockworks
A daily analysis of macroeconomics, bitcoin, geopolitics and big picture power shifts, hosted by Nathaniel Whittemore @nlw. The Breakdown is part of Blockworks.Subscribe to The Breakdown newsletter: https://the-breakdown.carrd.co/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 2, 2025 • 12min
Bitcoin’s Worst November in Years
November marked the toughest month for Bitcoin since 2018, suffering a 17.7% drop amid low liquidity and high leverage. A Thanksgiving weekend flash crash tied to Japanese bonds added to the chaos. Experts discuss whether this capitulation could pave the way for healthier market conditions by 2026. The podcast also dives into Tether's recent downgrade and the mixed reactions within the industry regarding its stability. Plus, SpaceX's mysterious Bitcoin movement raises eyebrows, but it's not a sale—just a custody shift!

10 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 12min
Bitcoin’s Fragile Recovery
Bitcoin shows signs of a weak recovery, raising questions about whether it hit a bottom. Analysts discuss shallow liquidity and fragmented market flows, suggesting consolidation is likely. While institutional sentiment remains mixed, CME derivatives are experiencing record volumes amidst this market uncertainty. Rates may be poised for cuts, yet ETF flows are disappointing, indicating a lack of confidence. Observations on MicroStrategy's stock movements and debanking issues highlight ongoing challenges, complicating the outlook for Bitcoin.

19 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 10min
Scott Besson Walks Into a Bitcoin Bar
Bitcoin's recent struggles prompt discussions about potential bottom signals and the macro factors at play. Analysts highlight the impact of retail ETF flows on the market correction, while long-term investors cautiously re-enter. Scott Besson's media appearances stir debate on fiscal stimulus against a backdrop of tightening liquidity. The dual narratives of institutional buying and economic risk shape the ongoing discourse. As uncertainties linger, the implications for crypto and traditional markets are explored in depth.

23 snips
Nov 23, 2025 • 30min
The Five Most Important Stories This Week
The hosts delve into a sharp Bitcoin sell-off, highlighting a shift in market sentiment that feels different from past corrections. They discuss the lack of a fundamental cause for the current decline and how institutional involvement impacts Bitcoin's volatility. Political unpredictability and Fed uncertainty stir the markets, while MicroStrategy's market position draws attention. Plus, Kraken's IPO filing and sovereign funds' buying activities suggest a complex financial landscape, with emerging narratives shaping investment strategies.

20 snips
Nov 22, 2025 • 10min
[CORRECT] Fed Minutes Slam the Door on Rate Cuts—Bitcoin Hits New Lows
Recent Fed minutes reveal a split committee, dashing hopes for a rate cut this December, which sent Bitcoin values plummeting. As leveraged traders reacted hastily, $3 billion in ETF redemptions followed suit. The podcast also discusses the Abu Dhabi Investment Council expanding its Bitcoin holdings, framing it as digital gold. Meanwhile, Kraken confidentially files for an IPO amidst changing market dynamics, leaving its timing flexible depending on conditions.

11 snips
Nov 20, 2025 • 10min
Bitcoin’s Bottom Watch Begins
Traders are buzzing about whether Bitcoin has hit its bottom as it tests $90K amid extreme fear and ETF outflows. Analysts debate exhaustion signs and potential rallies, while whale and long-term holder activity adds intrigue. Kraken's recent $800M fundraise with Citadel's backing raises eyebrows about market stability. Tether's investment in Ledn hints at expanding crypto services, and new OCC guidance allows banks to hold crypto for gas fees. The launch of Solana ETFs adds another layer to the already choppy market.

16 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 10min
Why Coinbase’s First ICO Fell Flat
The long-anticipated ICO debut on Coinbase fell short, leading to debates on demand for new tokens and retail interest. Critiques span from market timing to tokenomics, raising concerns over high VC allocations. Meanwhile, MicroStrategy made headlines with a massive Bitcoin buy but faces challenges with its preferred stock. CBOE's launch of regulated perpetual contracts could reshape TradFi adoption, while recent Bitcoin price action adds to market uncertainty. Analysts are divided on the implications, questioning if the downturn is temporary or indicative of deeper issues.

8 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 12min
The Bitcoin Bears Are Back In Town
The crypto market is gripped by fear as Bitcoin briefly dips below $93,000. Despite positive news like major institutions acquiring Bitcoin, prices remain stagnant. The podcast investigates whether Bitcoin is evolving into a more institutional asset with predictable returns. It also discusses the impact of liquidity issues and false selling rumors on market sentiment. With contrasting views on whether we are nearing a bear market's end, the conversation is both timely and thought-provoking.

20 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 24min
The Week Crypto Moved Forward While Prices Fell Behind
Amid extreme fear in the market, Bitcoin dips, but significant progress brews beneath the surface. Discussions highlight SEC clarity efforts, a draft bipartisan bill for CFTC oversight, and Coinbase's innovative launchpad. The impact of whale selling and a huge liquidation wave is examined. Meanwhile, JPMorgan pushes ahead with their deposit token, while geopolitical tensions emerge over a massive Bitcoin hack. Ultimately, short-term pain contrasts with long-term advancements, pointing to a cautious optimism for the future.

9 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 12min
What the End of the Shutdown Really Means for Crypto
The end of the government shutdown is breathing new life into crypto regulation. With the CFTC chair nearing confirmation, regulated spot markets are on the horizon. The SEC is revamping its tokenization and ETF strategies while Congress tackles stalled market-structure bills. Liquidity is set to improve as Treasury spending resumes, but macroeconomic uncertainty remains. Plus, the discussion on token taxonomy could redefine how certain tokens are classified, paving the way for easier market access.


