

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
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17 snips
May 14, 2025 • 10min
Coinbase Joins the S&P 500 as Bitcoin and Traditional Finance Converge
Coinbase's historic entry into the S&P 500 marks a pivotal moment for the crypto industry, enhancing its legitimacy in traditional finance. Meanwhile, Bitcoin is gaining traction, with high-profile firms like Goldman Sachs and Galaxy Digital showing increased interest in digital assets. Innovative strategies are emerging, such as Nakamoto Holdings' unique Bitcoin treasury plans. The podcast also dives into the evolution of cryptocurrency companies in public markets, highlighting their efforts to adapt and thrive amid changing financial landscapes.

16 snips
May 13, 2025 • 12min
Bitcoin's Quiet Rally and the Stablecoin Standoff
Bitcoin has crossed the $100,000 mark, yet the excitement feels oddly muted. The surge coincides with a trade truce between the U.S. and China, raising questions about its impact on crypto markets. Amidst this, skepticism surrounds stalled stablecoin legislation, reflecting a complex political landscape. With regulatory clarity at stake, the tension between lawmakers complicates the future of digital currencies. Dive into the dynamics shaping this environment and explore the calm in the midst of a digital gold rush.

May 11, 2025 • 10min
Crypto's Crossroads for Democrats
Democrats face a pivotal moment as they consider embracing decentralized crypto to win back young voters. The podcast dissects how the rise of cryptocurrency is reshaping political loyalties, particularly among young male voters shifting towards Trump. It also highlights the potential of the Genius Act as a tool for Democrats to prioritize voter needs over partisan conflicts. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the need for the party to adapt to new financial landscapes to engage this crucial demographic effectively.

27 snips
May 11, 2025 • 24min
The Five Most Important Stories in Crypto This Week
In this discussion, Scott Melker, a crypto analyst and trader, dives into the week’s top crypto stories. He highlights the sentencing of Celsius founder Alex Mashinsky and the implications for industry accountability. The turbulent political landscape surrounding crypto regulation is analyzed, revealing unexpected bipartisan alignments. Melker also celebrates Bitcoin's resurgence past $100k, discusses Apple’s new NFT regulations, and provides insights into market reactions following the latest Federal Reserve meeting.

14 snips
May 9, 2025 • 12min
The Fed Is Stuck Waiting While the Trade War Reshapes the Economy
The Federal Reserve remains cautious, opting for a 'wait and see' approach amid economic uncertainties. Tensions rise as trade negotiations with China intensify, revealing conflicting signals from U.S. leadership. Discussions highlight how the trade war is reshaping global economics, intertwining trade with capital investment restrictions and national security. The evolving global landscape could redefine America's economic strategy beyond mere trade disputes.

16 snips
May 8, 2025 • 13min
Democrats Stage Crypto Walkout to Hold Dueling Hearing
Congressional hearings on cryptocurrency took a dramatic turn as Democrats staged a walkout, igniting a showdown over alleged presidential corruption and regulatory clarity. The clash revealed deep partisan divides, overshadowing vital conversations about crypto legislation. Could this political theatrics stall essential progress in the crypto sector? As tensions rise, the fate of meaningful regulation hangs in the balance. Will Congress set aside their differences to keep the industry moving forward?

10 snips
May 7, 2025 • 12min
Crypto Clash: Waters’ Walkout vs. Market-Structure Bill
Tensions in Washington escalate as House Democrats stage a walkout to protest a significant crypto market-structure bill. The discussion dives into the implications of Trump’s involvement with stablecoins and the political maneuvering behind the scenes. Industry reactions to potential regulatory changes are explored, shedding light on the challenges of aligning politics with the fast-evolving crypto landscape. This clash highlights the ongoing struggle for clarity and consensus in digital asset regulation.

13 snips
May 6, 2025 • 10min
Arizona Gov Vetoes Bitcoin Bill
Arizona's governor has vetoed a bill that would have allowed state investments in Bitcoin, stirring unrest in the crypto community. There’s a growing partisan struggle as Senate Democrats, led by Elizabeth Warren, resist stablecoin legislation, complicating regulations. On a brighter note, Apple’s new allowance for crypto in-app purchases marks a significant step forward for mobile crypto adoption and acceptance. The conversation highlights important shifts in the political and corporate landscape affecting cryptocurrency.

25 snips
May 4, 2025 • 15min
The Five Most Important Stories in Crypto This Week
This week, bold predictions from major institutions set the stage for a volatile crypto landscape. Discussions center on the impact of recent government spending on Bitcoin and Dogecoin prices. The Federal Reserve's sluggish responses to economic crises raise concerns for the market's stability. Meanwhile, the revival of crypto lending and rising demand for stablecoins signal exciting changes in crypto finance. With contrasting forecasts for Bitcoin's future, investors are left considering liquidity's critical role in these price fluctuations.

24 snips
May 3, 2025 • 14min
Hayes: "Time to Long Everything!"
Arthur Hayes boldly advocates for a 'long everything' strategy, predicting a liquidity wave that could energize markets. Insights from industry giants like CZ highlight the evolving crypto landscape, merging utility with AI influence. Despite concerns over shrinking GDP and looming recession risks, there’s optimism about Bitcoin's potential with anticipated Fed interest rate cuts. Innovations in cryptocurrency security and exciting developments in stablecoins also promise a dynamic future for digital currencies.