CoinDesk Podcast Network

Jake Brukhman shares insights on crypto innovation and capital markets at Consensus 2025. He discusses Worldcoin's rapid user growth and its biometric proof of personhood, which may challenge Bitcoin's dominance. The conversation dives into common mistakes in startup pitching, emphasizing storytelling and presentation. Brukhman also explores World’s innovative user acquisition through physical retail stores, enhancing customer engagement while navigating regulatory scrutiny across jurisdictions.

President Trump is poised to sign crucial legislation on stablecoins and market structure, paving the way for a transformed crypto landscape. White House official Bo Hines provides insights into this exciting development. Meanwhile, Cantor Fitzgerald's Brandon Lutnick sheds light on Tether’s reserves, ensuring financial transparency. Additionally, Cardano's founder Charles Hoskinson announces the 'Glacier Drop' airdrop, designed to enhance user engagement and collaboration in the crypto community.

Join a riveting discussion with GSR's Chief Investment Officer as he dives into the evolving world of crypto options trading. Discover the unique dynamics that set crypto markets apart from traditional finance. Learn how institutional players are reshaping strategies and liquidity. The conversation highlights blending investment approaches between cryptocurrencies and equities. Plus, insights from Consensus 2025 provide a fascinating backdrop to current trends in the crypto landscape.

Exciting changes in the crypto landscape are afoot! eToro makes its public debut on the Nasdaq at $52 a share, signaling a strong entry. Cantor Equity Partners announces a significant $459 million Bitcoin acquisition, stirring interest. Meanwhile, Robinhood is shaking things up by acquiring Canadian crypto firm WonderFi for $179 million. The competitive edge within crypto exchanges is heating up as these major players make bold moves!

Seth for Privacy, VP at Cake Wallet and a passionate privacy advocate, dives into the significant implications of the ongoing Samurai Wallet legal case. He explores the weaknesses in Bitcoin's current privacy and discusses innovative solutions like Silent Payments and Payjoin V2. Seth highlights the attack on privacy tools by the government and argues that Monero provides better privacy by default. He also raises concerns about the potential return of the cryptography battles reminiscent of the 90s, making a compelling case for enhanced privacy in the crypto world.

Maz ElJundi, the Head of Crypto at Revolut, shares insights from his global journey through finance, discussing how Revolut aims to bridge the gap between traditional banking and Web3. He emphasizes the role of education in crypto adoption, aiming to simplify digital currencies for everyday users. Maz highlights the promise of borderless payments and reveals ambitious growth goals, targeting 100 million users and expansion into 100 markets. The importance of safety in crypto investments is also a key theme, ensuring user confidence in this evolving financial landscape.

Billionaire venture capitalist Tim Draper, renowned for his early Bitcoin investments, shares bold predictions about Bitcoin potentially taking over the U.S. dollar in the next decade. He emphasizes the importance of incorporating Bitcoin into company treasuries for stability amidst economic shifts. Draper also discusses the transformative role of AI and its impact on jobs and innovation, while reflecting on influential figures in his life and his hopes for the future. His visionary thoughts extend to genetics, entrepreneurial literature, and the evolving nature of technology.

Colin and Will dive into the striking shifts in the crypto lending market, noting a dramatic 80% crash and the explosive 959% growth of DeFi lending since 2022. They highlight Tether's dominance, controlling around 70% of centralized lending, and explore the decline of ASIC-backed loans. The duo discusses how Bitcoin miners are adapting by leveraging their holdings for financing while predicting a potential rise in Bitcoin neobanks and the integration of crypto lending with traditional finance. The landscape is changing; don't miss the insights!

Bitcoin developers are in a heated battle over relaxing OP_RETURN limits, revealing deep divisions within the community. Some argue for increased data capacity, while others fear it could lead to spam and compromise Bitcoin's integrity. The podcast delves into what qualifies as spam, the future of non-financial transactions, and the rise of alternative node clients. Tensions echo past conflicts like the block size wars, raising crucial questions about Bitcoin's purpose—whether it's merely a currency or a platform for broader applications.

Join a thrilling journey as an American unexpectedly becomes pope, defying crypto market predictions. Discover the ripple effects this has in both religious and financial landscapes. Meanwhile, Meta makes a comeback in the stablecoin arena, igniting fresh debates. Plus, a major figure in the crypto world faces a lengthy prison sentence due to fraud. It's a captivating intersection of faith and finance!