

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

Oct 18, 2025 • 26min
The 5 Most Important Stories in Crypto Last Week
The podcast dives into the recent chaos in the crypto markets, spotlighting a staggering $19 billion liquidation event and discussions of leverage. The hosts unpack a minting glitch by Paxos, raising concerns about stablecoin centralization. BlackRock's push for tokenization of real-world assets and its implications are also a hot topic. Additionally, they delve into a massive Bitcoin seizure by the DOJ and the ongoing debates surrounding ownership and strategic reserves. Binance's controversies add another layer, highlighting issues with exchange stability.

25 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 12min
The Tokenization Era Begins (says Fink)
BlackRock CEO Larry Fink announces the dawn of asset tokenization, emphasizing its transformative potential for markets. He argues that tokenized ETFs could draw global investors into traditional finance. Fink also highlights the urgency for clearer regulations in the digital asset space. Meanwhile, the DOJ unveils a historic Bitcoin seizure linked to a crypto scam, raising questions about victim restitution. Additionally, Jerome Powell hints at a possible end to quantitative tightening, shaking up market expectations.

46 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 12min
The Short, Brutal Bear Market of October ‘25
A surprise tariff announcement from Trump triggered a massive sell-off, leading to the biggest crypto liquidation in history. Altcoins plummeted to zero while suspicions of insider trading surfaced. Despite the chaos, Bitcoin showed resilience compared to altcoins. There were theories that a trader profited from prior knowledge of the announcement. Market reactions led to discussions on the need for regulatory scrutiny and platform design improvements. Ultimately, expectations lean toward a quick recovery.

8 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 21min
Could This Actually Be An Amazing Setup for Bitcoin?
Dive into the intriguing world of Bitcoin as hosts discuss its recent price movements and the concept of debasement trade. Discover how mainstream institutions are now considering Bitcoin as a hedge, similar to gold. They explore Bitcoin's dual role as both a high-risk asset and a safety net. The conversation moves to Galaxy One's launch and its potential in the crypto market. Plus, they examine regulatory challenges facing DeFi and the political hurdles that come with it. Market sentiment is captured as they wrap up the week's significant themes.

40 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 13min
Wall Street Discovers the “Debasement Trade”
Bitcoin's recent surge is being linked to the so-called 'Debasement Trade,' with Wall Street now viewing it as a hedge against weakening currencies. Major economists are echoing long-held fears about deficits and declining faith in fiat. Japan's political shifts and rising yields add to the global landscape, while the IMF warns of potential debt crises. The rally of gold and Bitcoin reflects increasing investor concerns about currency decay, signaling a significant shift in market attitudes.

18 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 11min
ICE Invests $2 Billion in Polymarket
A major financial player just injected $2 billion into Polymarket, hinting at a seismic shift in crypto finance. The discussion covers Bitcoin's recent dip and its impact on market sentiment. Additionally, new developments like S&P’s crypto-stock index and BNY Mellon’s tokenized deposits are explored. Christine Lagarde’s dismissal of Bitcoin's value adds a compelling twist, igniting debates across social media and the finance world.

15 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 10min
The TradFi-Crypto Fusion Is Here
Galaxy Digital introduces a new platform that merges crypto, stocks, and yield accounts into one hub. Coinbase is eyeing a banking charter to strengthen its financial offerings. A yield war fueled by stablecoin issuers could reshape global banking profits. Warning signs emerge as $1 trillion might shift from emerging-market banks to stablecoins by 2028. Meanwhile, tech giants are leveraging stablecoins to compete with traditional finance, ushering in a new era of financial integration.

14 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 11min
Bitcoin Breaks $125,000: The October Melt-Up Is On
Bitcoin's recent surge past $125,000 has sparked discussions about macroeconomic implications and institutional adoption. Analysts attribute the rally to ETF inflows, a weakening dollar, and shifts towards hard assets. Skeptics voice concerns over potential monetary panic. The episode highlights the evolving dynamics of portfolio allocations, signaling a deeper institutional interest in Bitcoin. Additionally, the impact of political events on interest in decentralized assets is examined, alongside debates on whether this market movement reflects genuine growth or financial strain.

17 snips
Oct 4, 2025 • 19min
The Five Most Important Stories in Crypto This Week
Bitcoin's price is soaring this October, driven by its typical seasonal patterns and a wave of ETF inflow momentum. Major banks like Citi and JPMorgan have made bold price predictions, further fueling market speculation. The potential impact of a government shutdown on ETF approvals is discussed, alongside new collaboration between the SEC and CFTC for better crypto oversight. Meanwhile, Kraken's $20 billion fundraising strategy raises eyebrows, and Stripe's new stablecoin initiative could shake up the market. A quirky culture clash arises as Netflix sees cancellations over Elon Musk's tweets.

23 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 12min
Bitcoin’s Favorite Month Has Arrived
October kicks off with strong momentum for Bitcoin, historically its best month. Analysts predict a potential rise to $200,000 by year-end, despite barriers like government shutdowns affecting ETF approvals. IRS guidance brings tax relief for MicroStrategy, while Stripe launches a platform for businesses to mint stablecoins. The tension between market complacency and opportunities for growth is palpable, especially as Tether's ambitions to dominate global liquidity loom large.


