
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

14 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 13min
The Radical Sentiment Dichotomy Between Degens & Institutions
Dive into the contrasting worlds of retail and institutional sentiment in crypto. While retail investors are feeling the blues, institutions are riding high on record ETF inflows and optimism. A recent $8 billion asset liquidation by Binance raises eyebrows, sparking discourse on market transparency. Positive shifts in sentiment are highlighted by impressive growth from crypto platforms like Robinhood. Explore how these dynamics shape the ever-evolving landscape of cryptocurrency.

20 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 15min
Bitcoin vs. Altcoins vs. Gold
Discover the intricate dance between Bitcoin, altcoins, and gold as they respond to today's economic climate. Delve into gold's rising appeal amid inflation and geopolitical tensions, as well as the challenges facing the gold market. Explore how Bitcoin's efficiency is outshining struggling altcoins and why it’s being seen as a new form of sound money. With the rise of counterparty risks and the evolving sentiment in cryptocurrencies, uncover what this means for investors navigating market trends.

36 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 12min
Why Crypto Sentiment is So Bad Right Now
Despite Bitcoin's stability, crypto sentiment is alarmingly pessimistic, especially among retail investors. The divide between professional optimism and retail despair is palpable. Recent ETF announcements and economic policies are creating fluctuating market sentiments. A new presidential crypto council aims to unify the industry, while regulatory changes and tax reforms are on the horizon. However, concerns linger about the potential threats of quantum computing to Bitcoin's security, adding another layer of complexity to the crypto landscape.

8 snips
Feb 9, 2025 • 8min
Will Debanking Actually End Now?
Dive into the controversial world of debanking and its sweeping effects on crypto companies facing banking denials. Recent congressional hearings shine a light on this troubling trend, revealing the broader implications for legitimate businesses. Through real-life examples, the urgent need for regulatory reform comes to the forefront, exposing how unexpected banking disruptions challenge the industry's stability. This engaging discussion unpacks the complexities of navigating financial services in a scrutinized landscape.

18 snips
Feb 8, 2025 • 12min
The Five Most Important Stories in Crypto This Week
Washington is experiencing a policy shift, hinting at a more favorable regulatory climate for crypto. Recent developments in legislation include a new SEC task force aimed at enhancing transparency. Meanwhile, Bitcoin's recent decline affects the entire market and raises questions about regulatory clarity. There are serious allegations against the FDIC regarding their handling of crypto banking, sparking significant scrutiny in court. This week, accountability and clarity in the crypto realm are at the forefront of discussions.

20 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 20min
The History of Operation Chokepoint 2.0
Nick Carter, a crypto venture investor known for coining "Operation Chokepoint 2.0," dives into the recent regulatory shifts impacting the cryptocurrency sector. He discusses the reversal of anti-crypto regulations by the FDIC and reflects on their historical context. The conversation covers the regulatory pressures faced by crypto banks following the FTX collapse and explores how the industry is adapting through lawsuits and legislative efforts. Carter emphasizes the potential for improved cooperation between the crypto community and government, highlighting future innovation opportunities.

Feb 6, 2025 • 12min
New SEC Crypto Task Force Announces New Era of Crypto Policy
SEC Commissioner Hester Pierce leads a new Crypto Task Force, aiming for transformative changes in U.S. crypto policy. The focus is on creating a safe harbor for existing tokens, while stablecoins are set to play a pivotal role. A bipartisan congressional group also emerged, pushing forward with cryptocurrency legislation and unveiling a new stablecoin bill. The collaboration is generating optimism for the future of the crypto industry, providing much-needed regulatory clarity.

27 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 12min
Is the US Sovereign Wealth Fund a Sneaky Proxy for a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve?
The discussion highlights President Trump's proposal for a U.S. sovereign wealth fund and its potential Bitcoin ties. Experts evaluate the shift in terminology, from a 'strategic reserve' to a more politically acceptable idea. The conversation dives into risks related to public spending and corporate governance. Additionally, the recent changes in the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau are scrutinized, revealing their effects on the cryptocurrency industry and consumer protection.

9 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 21min
Why the Trump Tariffs Aren't Actually Economic Policy
Recent tariffs introduced by the Trump administration have left many confused about their purpose and impact. The discussion highlights that these moves are more about geostrategic realignment than economic policy. Focused on the effects on North American industries, particularly auto manufacturing, the conversation unveils challenges like rising car prices. Additionally, the tariffs are scrutinized as diplomatic tools related to national security, reflecting a shift in U.S. power dynamics in a multipolar world.

27 snips
Feb 2, 2025 • 18min
The American Argument for Tokenizing Everything
This podcast dives into the future of investment with tokenization as a game changer. It highlights how blockchain technology could democratize access to private markets, benefiting everyday investors. The discussion doesn't shy away from the regulatory hurdles that need to be overcome for this transformation. Additionally, it examines the potential shifts in liquidity within financial markets and the need for more inclusivity in investment opportunities, all while addressing the SEC's stance on these developments.