
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

28 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 13min
The Trump Crypto Era Begins with a Surprise Memecoin
The crypto community is buzzing over the unexpected launch of a Trump-themed memecoin. With its explosive entrance on the Solana blockchain, the coin sparked both frenzy and infrastructure challenges. Experts weigh in on how a presidential association can shift the dynamics of cryptocurrency. The discussion delves into the unique tokenomics and the surreal atmosphere, echoing past crypto crazes. Reactions vary from excitement to skepticism, raising questions about the ethical and legal implications in the evolving crypto landscape.

34 snips
Jan 19, 2025 • 14min
Making the US the Crypto Capital of the World
Dive into the pivotal discussions on making the U.S. a crypto powerhouse! Legal experts weigh in on creating clear regulations to boost innovation and support stable businesses. Discover how essential transparency and security are for the future of decentralized finance. The podcast also highlights the need for reform in existing tax and regulatory measures to nurture the digital asset landscape. Plus, learn about the crucial role of defining tokens in driving industry growth and fostering a vibrant financial sector.

30 snips
Jan 18, 2025 • 23min
SEC to Hit the Ground Running on Crypto
Joining the discussion is Scott Melker, a crypto enthusiast and market strategist known for his insights into digital assets. They dive into the new presidential administration's approach to cryptocurrency, emphasizing executive orders and the establishment of a crypto advisory council. The conversation shifts to the economic indicators affecting market reactions, linking NASDAQ futures with Bitcoin prices. They also tackle regulatory changes and the impact of a new Treasury appointment on the crypto landscape, all while addressing the challenges faced by payment apps.

40 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 16min
Bitcoin's Big $100K Rebound
Bitcoin has surged back to $100k, fueled by encouraging December inflation data. The episode dissects the emotional rollercoaster of traders navigating this significant price point. There's a buzz about potential new policies from the upcoming administration, stirring excitement within the crypto community. Shifts in SEC leadership raise questions about future regulations, while states eye Bitcoin reserves as a hedge against inflation. It’s a lively exploration of strategy, sentiment, and the ever-evolving landscape of cryptocurrency.

35 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 14min
The Great Bitcoin Market Upsizing
Discover how institutional demand is reshaping the Bitcoin market, with projections for 2025. Uncover the intense competition in Bitcoin options trading and the emergence of significant players like Swiss crypto bank Signum. Learn about the evolving landscape in Bitcoin lending and how companies are increasingly adopting Bitcoin as part of their strategies. Explore regulatory impacts and innovations among smaller exchanges as they navigate an ever-changing environment. It's a fascinating dive into the future of cryptocurrency!

30 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 13min
Macro Roils After Surprising Jobs Report (and Bitcoin Follows)
The podcast dives into Bitcoin's recent volatility, discussing its drop and recovery amid challenging macroeconomic conditions. It explores how U.S. dollar strength and Treasury bond yields influence Bitcoin's performance. Analysts weigh in on the cryptocurrency market's uncertainties and the asset's role as an inflation hedge. The potential impact of Trump's presidency on crypto policies and market dynamics is also examined, alongside insights on Bitcoin supply shocks and Wall Street's varied attitudes toward digital assets.

14 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 14min
E. Warren's CFPB Tries Some Midnight Crypto Rulemaking
Political intrigue unfolds as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau weighs new rules for crypto payments. Experts dissect the challenges of extending consumer protections to the crypto sector. Whistleblower claims about the FDIC spark further debate on digital asset management. Meanwhile, a potential shift in regulatory leadership could favor the crypto-friendly agenda. Divergence in perspectives on Bitcoin's future reveals a rift between traders and optimistic long-term investors, all amidst an evolving regulatory landscape.

26 snips
Jan 12, 2025 • 15min
Is 2025 the Year of Crypto x AI Agents?
Explore the rise of AI agents within the cryptocurrency landscape and their potential impact on finance and gaming by 2025. Discover how blockchain technology is enabling the creation of these intelligent agents. The discussion also dives into the transformative effects of tokenized AI, which can autonomously manage assets and adapt to market changes. This shift could redefine traditional business models and necessitate new infrastructure to support these innovations in the economy.

41 snips
Jan 11, 2025 • 27min
The Five Most Important Stories in Crypto This Week
Scott Melker, a prominent crypto analyst and trader, joins the discussion on recent market trends and macroeconomic factors shaping the cryptocurrency landscape. They dive into the aftermath of a significant job report and its influence on Federal Reserve policies. The conversation shifts to revelations about systemic discrimination against crypto during Operation Chokepoint 2.0, and the potential regulatory shifts that may favor the industry. Additionally, they analyze the implications of the government's sale of $6.5 billion in Bitcoin and what it means for market dynamics.

32 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 15min
Macro Jitters Roil the Crypto Markets
The podcast dives into the dramatic drop of Bitcoin from its early-year highs, attributing it to broader macroeconomic worries. It analyzes how inflation indicators and a robust job market influence market volatility and trader behavior. The discussion includes the intricacies of Federal Reserve policies and their historical context, alongside insights from Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on rising bond rates. Finally, it examines the uncertain macro landscape shaping the crypto market and its potential future reactions.