

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

Jan 17, 2024 • 14min
Larry Fink Is Coming for an ETH ETF Next
BlackRock CEO Larry Fink discusses an Ethereum ETF and real world asset tokenization. The podcast explores differing views on Bitcoin ETFs and the SEC's skepticism towards an Ethereum ETF. It also covers the SEC's perspective on cryptocurrencies, rise of tokenized funds, and updates on Bitcoin ETFs.

Jan 14, 2024 • 10min
The New Normalcy of Trying A Little Bitcoin
The podcast explores the progress of bitcoin as electronic cash and its adoption in payments. It discusses the reasons behind the rising value of bitcoin and compares it to traditional currency. The podcast also explores the author's shift in opinion on Bitcoin ETFs and examines concerns and potential positive effects on decentralization and robustness.

Jan 13, 2024 • 32min
The Most Important Story In Crypto Last Week
The podcast discusses the successful debut of a Bitcoin ETF and addresses criticisms, explores the reluctance of registered advisors and Vanguard's risky decision, talks about the SEC's approval of a grayscale Bitcoin ETF, analyzes crypto offering success and market positioning, and discusses Jim Kramer's changing views on Bitcoin.

Jan 13, 2024 • 15min
How Successful Was the First Day of BTC ETF Trading?
The podcast discusses the first day of BTC ETF trading, highlighting the performance of different ETFs and the speculation around retail investors. It also explores recent developments in the cryptocurrency industry, legal proceedings, inflation concerns, and labor market cracks.

Jan 11, 2024 • 25min
BITCOIN SPOT ETFS APPROVED! A New Era of Bitcoin Has Begun
NLW explores the recent approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs by the SEC after years of waiting. It covers the false announcement of the approval, Bitcoin's price volatility, challenges in the approval process, concerns about manipulation in spot Bitcoin markets, and the emotional impact of the approval ushering in a new era of Bitcoin.

Jan 9, 2024 • 16min
How Much Will Flow Into BTC Post ETF Approval?
Explore the last minute questions surrounding the Bitcoin spot ETF. Delve into trading halts, ETF fee war, and implications for crypto exchange fees. Race to the bottom for fee wars in Bitcoin ETFs. Perspectives on Grayscale, SEC comments, and Bitcoin ETFs. Glimpse into bullish outlook on ETF launch and Bitcoin's scarcity value.

Jan 9, 2024 • 17min
The Fee War and the ETF Terrordome
The podcast discusses the competition among Bitcoin Spot ETFs and their aggressive fee structures. It explores the marketing strategies of issuers, the potential approval of ETFs, and the consequences of denial. The submission of a comment letter opposing ETFs is discussed, along with concerns raised. The podcast also explores the potential success or disappointment of upcoming crypto ETF launches and the significance of Bitcoin hubs worldwide. Additionally, the development of technologies for localizing custody of Bitcoin and the promotion of Bitcoin by major institutions are highlighted.

Jan 8, 2024 • 11min
Why Stay in Crypto?
This podcast explores how stablecoins can revolutionize the lending market and improve capital flows. It also discusses the potential of stablecoins and tokenization in the financial industry. The podcast highlights the importance of being in the crypto space and how it can address ongoing issues in the financial system. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for transparency, decentralization, and open access to challenge monopolies and withstand crises.

Jan 6, 2024 • 30min
The 5 Most Important Stories in Crypto This Week
The podcast discusses the latest news in the crypto industry including Sam's trial, Barry's departure from Grayscale, and the speculation on the ETF. They explore the timing and market impact of the ETF's approval, as well as the potential implications of a Bitcoin spot ETF. The discussion also covers cryptocurrency regulations and tax reporting obligations, DCG's potential problems, and the anticipation for spot ETF approval and an Ethereum spot ETF.

Jan 6, 2024 • 17min
The Last Details Before Bitcoin Spot ETF Approval
Discussion on the latest details of the anticipated Bitcoin spot ETF approval, including Grayscale's updated filing and potential timing. Exploring conflicting views on an Ethereum ETF and financial advisors' expectations. Highlighting recent inflows into crypto funds and the surge in assets under management. Discussion on Bitcoin ETF pricing, Celsius un-staking Ethereum, and Binance US hiring a new chief compliance officer. Focus on upcoming legal cases involving Coinbase and retirement of Missouri Representative Blaine Lute-Kamayer.


