The Bitcoin Layer
The Bitcoin Layer
The Bitcoin Layer is a premium markets research provider, covering bitcoin through a global macro lens | Research, Analysis, & Education
Featuring Nik Bhatia, author of the #1 Amazon bestseller Layered Money and USC Marshall School of Business professor.
Subscribe to our research publication and YouTube channel to learn about global macroeconomics, bitcoin, Lightning Network, the monetary and financial system, the Federal Reserve, interest rates, and geopolitics. Most importantly, develop a framework for understanding global markets—connect the dots between economic and financial concepts to see the bigger picture. Look no further for your bitcoin and macro education!
Featuring Nik Bhatia, author of the #1 Amazon bestseller Layered Money and USC Marshall School of Business professor.
Subscribe to our research publication and YouTube channel to learn about global macroeconomics, bitcoin, Lightning Network, the monetary and financial system, the Federal Reserve, interest rates, and geopolitics. Most importantly, develop a framework for understanding global markets—connect the dots between economic and financial concepts to see the bigger picture. Look no further for your bitcoin and macro education!
Episodes
Mentioned books
9 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 35min
The Trump Doctrine Has ARRIVED, Here’s What It Means for 2026
Nik dives into intriguing topics connecting tariffs, healthcare reforms, and the Federal Reserve under the lens of the Trump Doctrine. He highlights the dynamic interplay between economic sovereignty and national security, arguing that increasing deficits make rate cuts inevitable. The discussion includes the impact of court rulings on tariffs, their role in influencing behavioral change, and the potential for Bitcoin to emerge as a valuable asset amid fiscal stabilization. Get ready for insights on how these economic forces shape the future, especially heading into 2026.
27 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 23min
$95,000 Bitcoin & Fed Independence
Bitcoin’s price shows strength with key trend lines indicating potential upward moves ahead. Recent higher lows suggest a returning demand, while resistance around $108k to $112k holds significant implications. The discussion also dives into the Federal Reserve’s independence and its political pressures, raising questions about how these factors shape Bitcoin's future. Nik highlights the historical context of the Fed and the implications of market rates in influencing policy, suggesting a dynamic interplay between markets and monetary control.
27 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 39min
$1 QUADRILLION In Global Wealth: How Does It Impact Bitcoin?
Nik Bhatia and Demian Schatt dive into the impact of the staggering global wealth, now nearly $1 quadrillion, on Bitcoin. They explore how financialization has decoupled wealth from GDP and how this affects inequality and affordability. The conversation highlights the role of rapid crisis responses in preventing systemic failures and examines the implications of credit expansion and adoption on Bitcoin's growth. With a focus on the future, they discuss Bitcoin's position amidst these massive financial shifts.
23 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 37min
US Treasuries MUST STABILIZE for Bitcoin to Move Higher
Explore the crucial link between US Treasury stability and Bitcoin's potential growth. Learn how repo markets, bond volatility, and inflation trends influence liquidity. Delve into how year-end funding stress and the Fed's decisions impact leveraged Bitcoin buyers. Discover the significance of stable repo rates against the backdrop of rising interest expenses and government spending dynamics. The discussion also highlights the implications of Treasury issuance strategies and stable inflation on future Bitcoin demand.
13 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 50min
HERE COMES VANGUARD: Why Bitcoin Hits New All-Time Highs in 2026
Dr. André Dragosch, Head of European Research at Bitwise, discusses the institutional surge in Bitcoin investment leading up to 2026. He highlights the transformative role of Vanguard and wirehouses in facilitating ETF inflows. André explores how macroeconomic factors like global growth and bond market stress are shaping Bitcoin’s appeal. He argues that Bitcoin is underpriced relative to the expanding global money supply and predicts a potential retail comeback that could amplify institutional interest. Tune in for insights on Bitcoin as a hedge against sovereign debt risks!
27 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 57min
BITCOIN’S 4-YEAR CYCLE NEVER EXISTED | Next Bubble 2027 w/ Stephen Perrenod
In this insightful discussion, Dr. Stephen Perrenod, an astrophysicist and co-founder of the Scientific Bitcoin Institute, dives into the complexities of Bitcoin's market behavior. He challenges the notion of a four-year cycle, arguing it's a misinterpretation of data. Stephen reveals how bubble dynamics evolve and predicts a significant bubble around 2027 due to deeper capital pools. He also compares Bitcoin's growth patterns to cities and explores its potential against gold and quantum computing threats. A must-listen for crypto enthusiasts!
30 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 56min
What Falling Gas Prices Signal for Bitcoin & The 2026 Midterm Elections
Explore why Bitcoin shows resilience despite recent weaknesses. Discover how energy prices and inflation expectations impact Bitcoin's future. Nik dives into the significance of lower oil prices and their connection to consumer inflation. Plus, insights on how political dynamics and prediction markets may influence the 2026 midterms. He connects the dots between U.S. energy policy, Treasury yields, and the overall economic landscape, highlighting implications for Bitcoin in a shifting macro environment.
24 snips
Dec 15, 2025 • 39min
Why STRATEGY Stands Alone & Why Most Bitcoin Treasury Companies Cannot Last
Joachim Book, a Bitcoin analyst and editor of 'Bitcoin Age', joins to discuss the precarious state of Bitcoin treasury companies. He explains how Strategy's unique financial structure keeps it resilient against pressures that are crumbling competitors. Book touches on MNAV concerns, the flaws of heavy leverage, and why forced selling risks aren't as threatening for Strategy. The discussion also highlights Tether's market influence and the likely decline of the current treasury boom, predicting many firms may not survive.
30 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 52min
EUROPEAN BREAKING POINT: Italy Takes Gold Back, Sovereign Bond Crisis, & Bitcoin w/ Matt Dines
Join Matt Dines, CIO at Build and a macro analyst, as he dissects the current European financial landscape. He discusses Italy's quest to regain control of its gold reserves, signaling a shift in monetary authority. Matt reveals how euro strength indicates deeper funding issues in Europe, contrasting with the U.S. market dynamics. Their insights on how the ECB defends German yields and the implications for Bitcoin liquidity will keep you on the edge of your seat. Tune in for a captivating exploration of geopolitics and capital flows!
24 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 60min
THE MOST IMPORTANT DOCUMENT OF 2025: What the New U.S. National Security Strategy Means for Markets
Explore the groundbreaking new National Security Strategy and its impact on global markets. The discussion highlights a shift from globalism to a focus on reshoring and revitalizing the middle class. Analyze the evolving relationship with China, emphasizing supply chains and geopolitical balance. Learn about the linked themes of culture, technology, and military investment shaping U.S. policy. Discover how tax and tariff strategies could influence capital markets and assess the implications for Bitcoin and the Treasury market.
