

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

Sep 9, 2025 • 14min
Stripe’s Tempo Chain and the Return of Enterprise Blockchains
Stripe's launch of Tempo, a blockchain for stablecoin payments, has sparked intense debate in the crypto world. With major backers like Visa and Shopify, many wonder if it's a breakthrough or just another corporate venture. The clash between ideals of decentralization and the need for practical financial solutions is front and center. Expert insights reveal the challenges Stripe faces in balancing these conflicting narratives while exploring the implications for existing systems like SWIFT. Is decentralization still vital in this evolving landscape?

10 snips
Sep 6, 2025 • 17min
The Five Most Important Stories in Crypto This Week
This week, the Fed reveals plans for a digital assets conference, signaling a shift in regulatory attitudes. Uniquely, the SEC and CFTC issue a joint statement on crypto, showcasing a cooperative approach. The Trump family's market disruptions with new tokens stir up excitement. Prediction markets gain traction as Polymarket earns CFTC approval, while Nasdaq tightens its oversight on crypto treasury buys. These developments paint a dynamic picture of the evolving crypto landscape filled with opportunities and challenges.

28 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 10min
The Fed’s Big Stablecoin Shift
The Federal Reserve is embracing stablecoins at its upcoming payments innovation conference, signaling a shift in its traditionally cautious stance on crypto. Meanwhile, the Trump family's Bitcoin IPO created a buzz on launch day. Polymarket is also making headlines as it receives clearance to operate in the U.S., reflecting the changing regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies. This discussion reveals the evolving relationship between established institutions and innovative financial technologies.

32 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 11min
Exchanges Get the Green Light to Offer Crypto
Regulated exchanges have received approval to list spot crypto assets, signaling a major shift in U.S. crypto policy. This landmark guidance may lead to greater mainstream adoption and the emergence of crypto-native trading platforms. The discussion also covers upcoming IPOs for notable companies in the crypto sector, such as Coinbase and Kraken, and explores innovative trends like tokenizing shares on the Solana blockchain. The implications for ETFs and treasury companies further reveal the growing legitimacy of crypto markets.

34 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 13min
Bitcoin Seasonality Means A Messy September Set Up
Bitcoin experienced a tumultuous weekend, dropping significantly before a slight recovery. Analysts are debating if the correction has concluded, with shifting sentiments and gold's rise as key indicators. September historically brings challenges for Bitcoin, often setting the stage for a rally in Q4. The role of Bitcoin whales and monetary supply patterns are analyzed, revealing complex market dynamics. Additionally, the evolving regulatory landscape and investor behavior in response to key events are discussed, adding depth to the current challenges facing crypto.

8 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 14min
Brazilification Risk and the Fight for Fed Independence
A dramatic week unfolds as President Trump fires a Fed Governor, stirring fears about the independence of the central bank. The discussion dives into the vulnerabilities of global financial systems, using Turkey as a cautionary tale. There’s a critical look at government intervention in private enterprises, particularly Intel's struggles with the AI boom. The potential for government equity stakes raises important questions about national security and the future of independent financial institutions.

53 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 12min
Whales Unload Billions As Bitcoin Plunges To Six-Week Low
Bitcoin's sudden plunge below $110,000 shocks traders, driven by whale liquidations. A massive transfer of 24,000 BTC, the first in six years, stirs speculation about market stability. The conversation dives into the implications of whale activity and the shift towards Ethereum amidst significant ETF outflows. Traders grapple with whether we're facing a market correction or nearing a peak. Insights on Bitcoin accumulation trends and treasury company challenges highlight the dynamic changes within the evolving crypto landscape.

9 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 14min
A Nothingburger Speech that Moved Markets
Jerome Powell's recent speech at the Jackson Hole meeting sent shockwaves through the markets despite its dry delivery. Investors interpreted it as a dovish shift, leading to a surge in risk assets. The conversation delves into how this speech reshapes inflation expectations and the Fed's monetary policy. They also discuss the potential implications for future rate cuts and the critical issue of central bank independence amidst rising debt levels. It's a fascinating look at the intersection of policy, perception, and market dynamics.

28 snips
Aug 24, 2025 • 9min
Crypto Narratives Becoming Reality
Discover how crypto narratives, like Bitcoin as digital gold, are becoming more than just stories. Explore the connection between economic instability and crypto adoption in both emerging and developed markets. The discussion reveals how anecdotal evidence is evolving into solid data, reshaping perceptions of cryptocurrencies. The interplay between speculative investments and philosophical beliefs is highlighted, illustrating how these narratives influence mainstream acceptance and set the stage for the future of digital assets.

4 snips
Aug 23, 2025 • 23min
Markets Hold Their Breath in Wyoming
Jerome Powell's upcoming speech at Jackson Hole has investors on high alert, hinting at potential shifts in rate cut expectations. The podcast delves into the urgency of the crypto lobby's push for legislation ahead of the midterms. Attention shifts to China's pivot towards yuan-backed stablecoins and its implications for global finance. Also on the radar are the challenges posed by Bitcoin's sideways trading and how AI developments are reshaping market narratives. It's a mix of anticipation and strategic moves in a quiet market.