

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

Nov 14, 2024 • 9min
The Crypto Industry Lights up for DOGE (The New DOGE, That Is)
Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy launch the Department of Government Efficiency, aiming to tackle bureaucracy with a twist of cryptocurrency. The initiative raises eyebrows about its potential success. Meanwhile, unexpected political alliances spark excitement around Dogecoin, linking cryptocurrency to presidential campaigns. Dive into the fascinating intersection of digital currency and politics, exploring how these new alliances could reshape the future.

Nov 13, 2024 • 13min
BTC Hits $90,000 as Animal Spirits Return
Bitcoin has made headlines by soaring to new all-time highs, captivating the market with its impressive growth. The discussion dives into the resurgence of investor enthusiasm and the factors driving this wave, like institutional interest and regulatory shifts. Analysts weigh in on what this could mean for Bitcoin's future, sparking a debate about its long-term potential. With all these developments, the appetite for crypto seems to be re-ignited, leading to an exciting atmosphere in the financial world.

Nov 11, 2024 • 8min
The Present and Future of Crypto-Based Prediction Markets
Dive into the fascinating evolution of prediction markets within the crypto landscape. Discover how these innovative platforms are reshaping public sentiment assessment compared to traditional polling. The discussion also highlights the game-changing role of AI in enhancing these markets and their implications for elections and media narratives. Uncover the potential of crypto-based solutions for more transparent and engaging decision-making!

Nov 10, 2024 • 27min
The Five Most Important Stories in Crypto This Week
Scott Melker, a crypto analyst and trader, joins the discussion on pivotal stories reshaping the cryptocurrency landscape. They analyze how recent election results are stabilizing the market and the potential for Bitcoin's strategic reserve initiative. The duo explores the surge in Bitcoin prices and ETF investments, spurred by a favorable political climate. They also discuss the Federal Reserve's interest rate cuts and their implications on governance and economic policy, delving into the optimism surrounding a possible bull market amid regulatory uncertainties.

Nov 9, 2024 • 16min
Markets Rip Following the Elections
The cryptocurrency market is buzzing with optimism following a pro-crypto election outcome. Bitcoin prices are surging as investment trends shift. A newly elected senator has proposed a Bitcoin reserve, sparking discussions about government involvement in crypto. Skepticism persists within the community about regulatory changes. The elections seem to have revitalized venture funding and improved confidence in the DeFi landscape, signaling potential shifts in market dynamics.

7 snips
Nov 7, 2024 • 11min
New Bitcoin ATH Following Trump Victory
On election day, Bitcoin experienced wild swings in value, surging to an all-time high of $75,000 following Trump's victory. The discussion explores how sentiment and prediction markets correlate with this price spike. A Republican Senate could reshape crypto policy, with plans for a dedicated subcommittee on digital assets. Additionally, the podcast reflects on Ross Ulbricht’s case, addressing state overreach and reigniting hope within the crypto community for digital rights and justice reforms.

Nov 6, 2024 • 9min
The Last Day Before Crypto's Next Era
Election day creates a ripple effect in the cryptocurrency market, influencing everything from Bitcoin's value to investment strategies. The podcast delves into how venture firms and major players like A16Z and Coinbase are strategically funding pro-crypto initiatives to amplify their voice. It also examines the political landscape, highlighting the role of super PACs in shaping regulations and the pressing need for crypto enthusiasts to engage politically. The conversation presents a compelling view of how politics and crypto are intertwined in this evolving digital landscape.

Nov 5, 2024 • 11min
Macro Weakness Paves the Way for Another Fed Rate Cut
The latest discussion dives into the shockingly weak jobs report, revealing only 12,000 new payrolls, and its potential impact on Federal Reserve decisions. It highlights a private sector struggling to keep up amid economic disruptions. Additionally, the analysis of recent GDP growth shows strong consumer spending but raises concerns about government-led growth. Unusual trends in the bond market are also explored, prompting questions about the future economic landscape.

Nov 4, 2024 • 16min
Why Progressives Should Embrace Crypto
Explore the compelling reasons for progressives to embrace cryptocurrency, emphasizing its role in technological advancement and global competitiveness. Delve into the transformative power of decentralized finance and how Bitcoin fosters transparency and community. Analyze the regulatory controversies impacting the industry, including the SEC's actions and bipartisan support for crypto-friendly legislation. Finally, consider the political stakes in U.S.-China dynamics and how adopting crypto can benefit progressive values and underserved communities.

Nov 3, 2024 • 23min
The Five Most Important Stories in Crypto Last Week [Pre-Election Edition]
Scott Melker, a distinguished crypto analyst and educator, joins for a lively discussion on recent market dynamics. They delve into Michael Saylor's ambitious Bitcoin buys, the volatility keeping BTC at around $70k, and the challenges of accurately valuing cryptocurrencies. The conversation also touches on the innovative exSat Network aiming to enhance Bitcoin's scalability without sacrificing its core values, and the increasing regulatory scrutiny surrounding Tether and its implications for the upcoming elections.


