

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 3, 2023 • 23min
The Sam Bankman-Fried Trial Begins - Everything You Need to Know
Sam Bankman-Fried, an individual on trial in New York, faces charges of wire fraud, securities fraud, commodities fraud, and money laundering. The podcast covers the aftermath of FTT token liquidation and speculations of fund misuse. It discusses Sam's bankruptcy, bail conditions, and defense strategies. The trial begins, and updates on trial procedural matters are provided, including potential legal troubles for Sam.

Oct 2, 2023 • 12min
Bitcoin Pops As Uptober Returns
Will Bitcoin have another green October? The podcast explores bullish catalysts and the launch of Ethereum Futures ETFs. The discussion also covers Valkyrie's strategy change, ETF competition, Van Eck's donation, Bitcoin spot ETF updates, and the benefits of tokenization in financial markets. Lastly, it touches on the transition to a bullish environment and the averted government shutdown.

4 snips
Oct 1, 2023 • 12min
Where Crypto Has Product-Market Fit (And Where It Doesn't)
The podcast discusses the concept of product-market fit in the crypto industry, emphasizing the need for desired products beyond income. They explore the role of NFTs in achieving product-market fit and the potential of bringing real-world assets onto the blockchain. The appeal of Bitcoin in countries with volatile monetary systems is also explored.

Sep 30, 2023 • 12min
ETH Futures ETFs Get Set to Trade as Government Shut Down Looms
This podcast discusses the potential trading of ETH Futures ETFs next week and the implications of a looming government shutdown. It also explores the ongoing dispute over government funding, the economic impact on the crypto industry, and recent developments in the Bitcoin custodian industry.

Sep 29, 2023 • 33min
The 5 Most Important Stories from Crypto This Week
Discussion on Valkyrie's Bitcoin ETF approval for Ethereum inclusion, delay in approving Bitcoin spot ETF, analysis of Gary Gensler's attitude towards committee hearing, upcoming Ethereum futures ETFs launch and Walmart's partnership with NFT brand Pudgy Penguins, and alarming occurrence of crypto hacks and security landscape.

Sep 29, 2023 • 13min
Congressional Republicans Lash Out At Gensler
Congressional Republicans express frustration with SEC Chair Gary Gensler during a hearing. They question his impartiality and regulatory approach to digital assets. Concerns are raised about crypto governance and his interpretation of 'investment contract'. Republicans call for subpoenas due to Gensler's evasive answers.

Sep 27, 2023 • 15min
Chokepoint Across the Pond: Chase UK Says No Crypto Transactions
Chase UK refuses crypto transactions to fight fraud, bipartisan group pushes SEC to approve Bitcoin ETF, concerns about de facto ban on crypto, SEC extends timeline for Bitcoin ETF applications.

Sep 27, 2023 • 15min
Huobi Changes Name to HTX and Almost Immediately Gets Hacked
The podcast discusses high profile hacks in the crypto industry and the challenges of crypto custody and security. They touch upon recent security breaches and social engineering attacks. Topics include the solvency of Huobi (HTX), voice cloning technology, the acquisition of Celsius, and the SEC's objections to Coinbase's involvement in the distribution process.

Sep 25, 2023 • 14min
ByBit Vacates United Kingdom as "Crypto Hub" Dreams Falter
Crypto exchanges and brokers like PayPal and ByBit are leaving the UK due to unworkable regulations. The podcast discusses the regulatory changes affecting the UK, the optimism in Asian crypto markets, Coinbase's interest in FTX Europe, and the impact of new regulations on stablecoin issuers in Europe.

Sep 24, 2023 • 15min
How the Crypto Investing Landscape Has Changed
The podcast discusses the challenges and lessons learned from managing a crypto portfolio for five years, the changing job responsibilities and the crucial role of trade operations in the industry, the aspects of trade operations and compliance in the crypto investing landscape, the changing landscape of crypto investing and the importance of faith in the future.


