

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

5 snips
Jul 17, 2024 • 13min
Republican VP Nominee on Bitcoin, Crypto and Gensler
New Republican VP nominee JD Vance discusses his support for blockchain tech, challenges in traditional finance, and more industry-friendly crypto regulation. The podcast also explores the shift towards crypto support in US politics, generational dynamics in Silicon Valley, and the evolution of prominent figures endorsing Bitcoin.

Jul 16, 2024 • 15min
The SEC Backs Off Another Crypto Enforcement Action
The podcast discusses the SEC dropping its investigation into the Stacks ecosystem after three years. It highlights the absurd cost of the SEC's enforcement strategy. The episode also explores legal battles involving crypto developers and evolving regulatory attitudes at the Permissionless conference.

Jul 15, 2024 • 15min
The Theory and Practice of Bitcoin Politics
The podcast delves into Bitcoin's apolitical nature, its potential role in political processes, and its impact on geopolitics. Topics include self-sovereignty, Bitcoin's influence on state structures, using Bitcoin for international treaties, and the evolving role of Bitcoin in financial markets.

Jul 13, 2024 • 29min
The Five Most Important Stories in Crypto This Week
This podcast explores Bitcoin's influence on American politics, including Trump's ties to crypto. It also discusses the shifting political landscape in the US and its impact on the crypto industry. Additionally, the episode delves into Germany's inefficient Bitcoin selling and Jerome Powell's monetary policy's potential effects on Bitcoin.

Jul 11, 2024 • 14min
Trump Speaking At Bitcoin Conference
Former President Trump announced he will speak at a Bitcoin conference, showcasing the intersection of crypto and politics. Contrasting approaches of Democrats and Republicans towards cryptocurrency are explored. Policymakers' increasing support for crypto, concerns of Republican voters, regulatory efforts, and a German government Bitcoin sell-off are discussed.

Jul 11, 2024 • 18min
Powell Inches Towards Rate Cuts
The podcast delves into the possibility of rate cuts following Powell's commentary, alongside discussions on global economic landscapes, political developments in France, the UK, and Argentina, and the historical impact of rate cuts on the stock market. Additionally, it explores the labor market focus, international financial system dynamics, and Argentina's economic reforms under Mille's leadership.

Jul 10, 2024 • 12min
For the First Time Ever, Crypto is an Official Part of a Major Political Party Platform
The podcast discusses the GOP officially including crypto in their platform with a focus on right to mine, self-custody, and freedom from government surveillance. It delves into the evolution of crypto integration in political parties, advocacy for Bitcoin rights, German Bitcoin selling, market updates, and positive inflows in Bitcoin ETFs.

Jul 9, 2024 • 13min
Mt. Gox Unlocks Send BTC Crashing
Exploring the recent drop in Bitcoin prices, the podcast discusses the impact of Mt. Gox Bitcoin distribution on liquidity and price fluctuations. It also analyzes the market response to Mt. Gox creditors unlocking their Bitcoin and the German government liquidating seized assets, urging caution amidst uncertainties.

Jul 7, 2024 • 9min
Agriculture and the State of Tokenization
The podcast delves into how tokenization can revolutionize agriculture with transparency, traceability, and fair compensation. It discusses collaboration between stakeholders to overcome skepticism. Industry expertise is highlighted for successful tokenization projects merging agricultural finance and blockchain technology.

Jul 5, 2024 • 17min
Software Creates New Nations
Exploring how software is reshaping societies and creating new communities, from cloud formations mimicking physical towns to the impact on mobility and access to goods/services. Discussing the evolution of community-building and speculating on potential new nations formed based on shared interests and beliefs.


