

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/
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8 snips
Jun 21, 2025 • 23min
Bitcoin Holds Firm Above $100K as Senate Stablecoin Bill Opens Floodgates for Crypto
Bitcoin's surprising stability above $100,000 is a hot topic, showing its strength even in uncertain times. The recent bipartisan stablecoin bill is opening new doors for adoption, shaking up both crypto and traditional finance. There's buzz about Circle’s IPO success and JPMorgan’s intriguing move with Coinbase’s platform. Meanwhile, Elon Musk is pushing his vision for X as an all-in-one app. As the Fed grapples with rate cuts, the landscape for cryptocurrencies is shifting dramatically.

Jun 18, 2025 • 13min
Senate Passes Historic Stablecoin Bill
The U.S. Senate has passed landmark stablecoin legislation, signaling a new era for digital finance in America. As institutions gear up for massive crypto adoption, JPMorgan announces plans for its own permissioned token in partnership with Coinbase. Meanwhile, escalating tensions between the U.S., Iran, and Israel rattle global markets. NLW breaks down the implications for crypto, geopolitics, and finance.
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4 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 14min
Is Tron Going Public This Cycle's Shark Jump?
Delve into Justin Sun's bold plans to take Tron public, stirring controversy within the crypto community. The discussion highlights how U.S.-Iran tensions are affecting Bitcoin markets and the rise of MetaPlanet among corporate Bitcoin holders. Explore the growing influence of Bitcoin ETFs and the intricate challenges facing crypto legislation, especially with political ties and the Genius Act looming. This analysis reveals potential shifts in investor sentiment and market dynamics as the landscape evolves.

6 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 14min
How Markets Are Reacting to the Middle East
Explore how the rising tensions between Israel and Iran are shaking up markets, particularly Bitcoin’s surprising stability at $105K. Discover the emergence of Bitcoin treasury companies—are they innovators or potential disaster creators? The discussion also highlights recent Solana ETF filings and how retail giants like Amazon and Walmart are eyeing stablecoins. Join the conversation on the intersection of geopolitics and crypto investment strategies as experts weigh the risks and future of cryptocurrency.

9 snips
Jun 15, 2025 • 10min
What Everyone Missed About Circle's Explosive IPO
Circle's IPO skyrocketed from $31 to over $100, surprising many in the market. Analysts underestimated the excitement surrounding stablecoins, now seen as vital financial tools. The podcast dives into the intriguing reasons behind this valuation surge. The launch event buzzed with optimism, reflecting a shift in the financial landscape, where Circle's strategic vision has finally met favorable market conditions. Discover how geopolitical factors and the evolving regulatory framework play a crucial role in this narrative.

19 snips
Jun 14, 2025 • 12min
The Five Most Important Stories in Crypto This Week
Tensions escalate as Israel strikes Iran, shaking global markets and influencing Bitcoin's status as a risk asset. The impact of geopolitical events on cryptocurrencies is under scrutiny. Advocates discuss the importance of self-custody as a digital right amid regulatory changes. Meanwhile, stablecoins gain traction, supported by significant legislative steps. Stripe's recent acquisition signals growing confidence in crypto's future, marking a pivotal moment for mainstream adoption.

6 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 13min
The Stablecoin Surge and Stripe’s Crypto Power Play
Delve into the heated discussions surrounding stablecoin legislation in Washington, where the focus shifts from crypto innovation to dollar dominance. Explore Meta's potential return to stablecoins and how it may impact privacy and advertising. Discover Stripe's game-changing acquisition of wallet provider Privy, aimed at enhancing crypto transactions. Unpack the implications of these developments for stablecoins, U.S. dollar strategy, and the quirky plans of companies like GameStop in the crypto treasury landscape.

23 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 12min
Bitcoin’s Hot Summer, Solana ETF Momentum, and Connecticut's Crypto Ban
Bitcoin is experiencing a summer surge, climbing to $110,000 amidst bold predictions about a lasting recovery. There's excitement around potential Solana ETFs, hinting at significant shifts in the altcoin market. However, Connecticut's recent ban on state crypto investments raises eyebrows about regulatory tensions. Meanwhile, promising legislative movements in Washington suggest a more structured approach to crypto, while a new CFTC Chair nominee hints at a pro-crypto stance, signaling a dynamic landscape ahead.

17 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 13min
Why the SEC Chair Just Declared Self-Custody a Foundational American Value
SEC Chair Paul Atkins has declared self-custody a fundamental American right, signaling a pivotal shift in crypto regulation. This declaration is crucial for the future of cryptocurrency and decentralized finance. The ongoing legislative battles in Washington are also spotlighted, especially around pro-crypto and anti-crypto measures. Additionally, Circle's recent IPO has sparked a flurry of new crypto IPO filings as Wall Street races to keep pace, creating ripples throughout the market.

20 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 13min
Trump's Taco Trade and the Dollar's Dangerous Game
Explore the intriguing 'taco trade' phenomenon and how it reflects market uncertainties surrounding tariffs. Delve into the escalating U.S.-China trade tensions and their impact on rare earth metals crucial to the automotive industry. Hear about plummeting CEO confidence tied to controversial budget measures and the political games around the debt ceiling. Finally, discuss the dollar's precarious status as the world's reserve currency and the potential rise of Bitcoin as an alternative amidst looming geopolitical challenges.