

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 14, 2023 • 36min
SBF Trial, ETF Progress, JPM Onyx Milestone: The Crypto Weekly Recap
Discussion on the SBF trial, ETF market, and JP Morgan's involvement in real world assets. Emphasis on the importance of accountability in the crypto industry and holding executives accountable for fraudulent acts. Analysis of the ongoing trial of Sam Bacon Fried, citing evidence of fraud. Analysis of the FTX buyout, fake balance sheets, and involvement of politicians. Discussion on the impact of actions on the last market cycle and use of blockchain collateral systems. Exploration of confusion and speculation in the crypto industry regarding a share buyback offer and the SBF trial.

Oct 14, 2023 • 20min
The Most Shocking Details of Caroline Ellison's Damning SBF Testimony
Caroline Ellison, prosecutions star witness in the case against Sam Bankman-Fried, reveals shocking details including massive bribes to Chinese officials, use of signal and self-deleting message apps, a bribery plan involving Thai prostitutes, and $100 million spent on bribes.

Oct 13, 2023 • 12min
Bitcoin Spot ETF Approval Incoming?
In this podcast, the host covers promising news on the Bitcoin Spot ETF approval, discusses JP Morgan's tokenization platform, highlights the challenges within the Republican party, and explores the stabilization of Bitcoin volumes and the upcoming SEC deadline.

Oct 11, 2023 • 14min
Crypto Industry Faces Terrorist Financing Accusations
The podcast explores the accusation of the crypto industry facilitating terrorist financing, including how terrorist groups have raised millions through crypto. It also discusses the ongoing trial of Sam Bangman and the impactful testimony given by Carolyn Ellison. Additionally, the chapter delves into the transparency of blockchains and the regulatory issues in the crypto industry.

Oct 10, 2023 • 17min
Gary Wang and the Alameda Grift History
Former FTX CTO, Gary Wang, reveals improper relationship and special privileges between FTX and Alameda research. Alameda took advantage of undisclosed benefits, resulted in overdrawn accounts by $8 billion. Also explores the increase in Alameda's credit line, reaching an effectively infinite credit line of $65 billion.

Oct 8, 2023 • 10min
An Analyst Warns on TUSD, stUSDT, and Huobi/HTX
This podcast episode explores the allegations of deception and manipulation involving Justin Sun, TUSD, stUSDT, and Huobi/HTX. It also discusses the questionable trading activities surrounding STUSDT, USDC, and TUSD. Additionally, the episode highlights concerns about USD liquidity, fraudulent stablecoins, and the need for accountability in the crypto space.

Oct 7, 2023 • 29min
Crypto's Biggest Ally Could Be the Next Speaker of the House
The hosts discuss the SBF Trial, the potential of Tom Emmer becoming the next Speaker of the House, the lackluster launch of ETH futures, the current state of Bitcoin, and the correlation between cryptocurrency and traditional financial markets. They also talk about the trial of Sam Bankman Fried and the impact of having a crypto-friendly Speaker of the House.

Oct 6, 2023 • 13min
Macro Signals Are All Flashing Warnings
The podcast discusses the current sell-off in the US Treasury market and the reasons behind increased demand for treasuries. It explores the trade causing concern for systemic risk and the potential challenges for US government financing. The implications of a bear steepener in the bond market and other macro indicators are also discussed. Lastly, the increasing delinquencies in consumer loans and the spiking mortgage rates are examined.

Oct 5, 2023 • 17min
SBF Defense: "Blame Caroline! Also He's a Nerd."
The podcast covers the early days of the Sam Bankman-Fried trial, including jury selection, opening statements, and witness testimonies. The prosecution presents evidence of mishandling funds and fraud, while the defense blames Caroline Ellison and emphasizes Sam's lack of criminal intent. Surprising evidence is presented regarding customer deposits, and upcoming testimonies from Matt Huang and Gary Wang are anticipated.

Oct 4, 2023 • 14min
A Leading Candidate for Next Speaker of the House is One of Crypto's Biggest Allies in D.C.
Crypto ally Patrick McHenry is a leading candidate for Speaker of the House, along with current House whip Tom Emmer. They discuss potential impact on crypto legislation, the SEC's denial of an appeal in the Ripple case, and the judge's decision and its implications for the industry.


