
The Breakdown
A daily analysis of macroeconomics, bitcoin, geopolitics and big picture power shifts, hosted by Nathaniel Whittemore @nlw. The Breakdown is part of Blockworks.
Latest episodes

Mar 13, 2025 • 12min
Early Signs of Crypto Bipartisanship in Congress
Congress has followed the Senate in their vote to repeal a damaging IRS crypto broker rule, and has done so by an even bigger supermajority than the Senate vote. NLW argues that this shows an emerging strand of common-sense bipartisanship around crypto in Washington. Sponsored by: LedgerLedger, the world leader in digital asset security, proudly sponsors The Breakdown podcast. Celebrating 10 years of protecting over 20% of the world’s crypto, Ledger ensures the security of your assets. For the best self-custody solution in the space, buy a LEDGER™ device and secure your crypto today. Buy now on Ledger.com.Enjoying this content?
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Join the discussion: https://discord.gg/VrKRrfKCz8
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NLW: https://twitter.com/nlw
Breakdown: https://twitter.com/BreakdownNLW

Mar 12, 2025 • 12min
Markets Get Spooked By Recession Possibility
NLW explores macro turmoil, including the growing (at least in analysts' estimation) possibility of a recession. He also looks at how it's impacting the crypto markets.Sponsored by: LedgerLedger, the world leader in digital asset security, proudly sponsors The Breakdown podcast. Celebrating 10 years of protecting over 20% of the world’s crypto, Ledger ensures the security of your assets. For the best self-custody solution in the space, buy a LEDGER™ device and secure your crypto today. Buy now on Ledger.com.Enjoying this content?
SUBSCRIBE to the Podcast: https://pod.link/1438693620
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nathanielwhittemorecrypto
Subscribe to the newsletter: https://breakdown.beehiiv.com/
Join the discussion: https://discord.gg/VrKRrfKCz8
Follow on Twitter:
NLW: https://twitter.com/nlw
Breakdown: https://twitter.com/BreakdownNLW

22 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 14min
Ignore the Whiners: The White House Crypto Summit WAS a Big deal
The podcast dives into the buzz from the recent White House crypto summit, with President Trump's ambiguous stance on Bitcoin stirring mixed feelings in the crypto community. There's disappointment over government Bitcoin reserves and speculation on strategies for increased involvement. Additionally, it takes a closer look at market sentiment amidst evolving regulations, highlighting the diverse reactions from stakeholders as they navigate the fast-changing landscape of digital assets.

18 snips
Mar 11, 2025 • 11min
A Preview of the White House Crypto Summit
Anticipation builds for the upcoming White House Crypto Summit, spotlighting its role in shaping crypto policy. Key discussions include the importance of a Bitcoin reserve in government strategy and concerns over the lack of focus from past administrations. There's an intriguing look at the evolving political landscape, especially regarding Trump's agenda. The newly repealed IRS broker rule showcases bipartisan momentum, suggesting a brighter future for regulatory frameworks in the cryptocurrency space.

10 snips
Mar 9, 2025 • 11min
Will AI Vibe Coding Lead to Web3 Adoption?
The discussion dives into how AI and Vibe Coding could revolutionize web application development. Imagine a 'self-writing internet' allowing anyone, regardless of technical skills, to create and update apps effortlessly! Plus, the role of blockchain in fostering secure and censorship-resistant experiences is highlighted, paving the way for wider adoption of Web3. This convergence of technology could spark a massive shift in how we interact with the digital world.

14 snips
Mar 8, 2025 • 30min
It's Actually Happening: The USA Gets a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve
Scott Melker, a savvy crypto analyst, joins to explore groundbreaking developments in Bitcoin policy. The U.S. is establishing a strategic Bitcoin reserve funded by seized assets, aiming to boost economic and global investment. They discuss the bipartisan repeal of a controversial IRS rule on DeFi, which may impact El Salvador's Bitcoin journey. The conversation digs into the challenges countries face with Bitcoin adoption in the context of U.S. financial practices, all while navigating market turbulence from current trade policies.

Mar 6, 2025 • 15min
No One Knows Anything About This Economy
The conversation dives into the chaos of the current economy, exploring the confusion stemming from trade wars and unclear government policies. Analysts discuss the volatile stock and bond markets, highlighting falling bond yields and worries about GDP. Emotions in financial markets are showcased, especially through Elon Musk's influence on Dogecoin. The episode unpacks the complexities of government spending cuts and the lingering questions about growth versus recession, leaving listeners pondering the unpredictable future.

7 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 13min
A Bipartisan Crypto Voting Coalition Emerges
A bipartisan coalition is forming to advocate for crypto legislation in Congress, sparking optimism for balanced policies. The episode discusses the implications of a contentious strategic reserve proposal and community reactions. BlackRock's groundbreaking inclusion of Bitcoin in investment portfolios highlights the shifting landscape of digital assets. With important discussions on stablecoin legislation and a crypto summit on the horizon, the future looks promising for cryptocurrency enthusiasts.

Mar 4, 2025 • 14min
Trump's Strategic S#^@coin Reserve
Exploring the U.S. Crypto Strategic Reserve reveals controversy and unexpected choices in altcoins like XRP and ADA. The crypto community reacts with mixed emotions, highlighting market impacts and political critiques. Allegations of corruption tie Trump family investments to Cardano and Solana, raising ethical questions about market manipulation. Discussions on U.S.-centric crypto policies emphasize the importance of industry feedback in shaping future regulations, showcasing the complex interplay between politics and digital assets.

5 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 12min
Is the War on Crypto Actually Over?
The discussion dives into the complexities of proposed tax policies for cryptocurrencies under Trump. Topics include the potential chaos of eliminating capital gains taxes and its impact on market volatility. There's a detailed look at the ongoing challenges within U.S. regulatory frameworks despite pro-crypto leadership. The conversation highlights the active role of state regulators and the importance of strategic support for crypto-friendly political candidates in navigating this ever-changing landscape.
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