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
7 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 26min
Global Macro Update: Liquidity Cycles Higher While Bitcoin Consolidates
The discussion dives into how the end of quantitative tightening is enhancing liquidity in financial markets and supporting Bitcoin's foundation. There’s a focus on the rise of Treasury bill issuance and its implications for banking stability. The breakdown of the dollar index and its connection to U.S. industrial policy is highlighted. On the Bitcoin front, topics include six-figure price consolidation, decreasing volatility, and favorable on-chain signals, painting a picture of strength amid evolving macro conditions.
Jul 23, 2025 • 27min
Bitcoin Grows as Stablecoins Absorb U.S. Debt
Explore how the Genius Act is reshaping the future of currency, as stablecoins like Tether rise to prominence. Discover the shift in U.S. Treasury demand and its implications for global finance. Tether's potential as a world reserve asset stirs political debates around national security. The podcast delves into Bitcoin's competition with traditional reserve currencies, and sheds light on how stablecoins might accelerate Bitcoin's adoption amidst a changing monetary landscape.
6 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 32min
This CEO Just Raised $750 Million to Buy Bitcoin With ZERO Debt
Matt Cole, CEO of Strive Funds and former manager of a $70 billion portfolio at CalPERS, discusses how his company raised $750 million to become a major Bitcoin player without incurring debt. He emphasizes the dangers of fiat currency and debt monetization, positioning Bitcoin as a resilient alternative. Cole addresses the potential decline of the dollar, Tether's role in the Bitcoin market, and the strategic importance of building a transparent, long-term Bitcoin treasury. His insights reflect a keen understanding of financial systems and emerging market dynamics.
20 snips
Jul 19, 2025 • 19min
Bitcoin’s Price Floor Just Hit $100,000, and It’s Still Early
Bitcoin has hit a remarkable price floor of $100,000, indicating strong structural foundations rather than just momentum. The discussion dives into its $1 trillion realized market cap and the rising impact of institutional investors. Innovative strategies for accumulating Bitcoin are transforming its role in settling global debts. The hosts analyze key market trends, including the potential for prices to reach between $138,000 and $200,000, while emphasizing the balance between real demand and speculation.
14 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 30min
Can the U.S. Lead in AI Without Killing Innovation?
Yaël Ossowski, Deputy Director of the Consumer Choice Center and the Bitcoin Policy Institute, discusses the contentious landscape of AI regulation in the U.S. He highlights the proposed federal moratorium on conflicting state laws and the risks posed by restrictive policies, particularly from California. Yaël emphasizes the need for a unified, decentralized framework to avoid innovation barriers. The conversation also addresses the legal challenges of copyright in AI training and the importance of engaging the next generation in coding while advocating for open-source, privacy-focused tools.
21 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 31min
Bitcoin’s Bull Run Is Absorbing MASSIVE Selling w/ James Check
James Check, an analyst from Checkonchain specializing in Bitcoin on-chain analysis, joins the conversation to dissect Bitcoin’s recent surge and the enigmatic movement of 80,000 BTC. They explore potential motivations behind the transfer to Galaxy Digital and what it signals about long-dormant Bitcoin supply. The duo discusses market resilience amidst selling waves, the shift towards derivatives, and the growing role of institutional investors. Insights into holder dynamics shed light on the market's bullish yet cautious sentiment, making this a riveting discussion for Bitcoin enthusiasts.
14 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 17min
Bitcoin Soars Past $113,000 as Liquidity Surges and Stablecoins Boom
Bitcoin has recently soared past $113,000, and the excitement is palpable! A Golden Cross formation signals bullish trends, indicating potential future gains. Dive into the essential role of stablecoins and their impact on Bitcoin's liquidity, especially in areas lacking banking options. Plus, explore how favorable credit market conditions and dollar movements support this surge. On-chain momentum and rising liquidity suggest that this upward trajectory for risk assets could continue.
12 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 18min
Mysterious $8 Billion Bitcoin Move: Quantum Theft, Legal Seizure, or Hoax?
A staggering $8 billion in dormant Bitcoin has resurfaced, sparking intense speculation. What does this mysterious movement mean for lost coins and private key security? Delving into possible quantum theft and legal implications, the discussion also touches on peculiar test transactions linked to Bitcoin Cash. Experts analyze how this unexpected $8 billion transfer might influence the cryptocurrency market. With no immediate price reaction, the intrigue deepens as questions about the true identity of the investor loom large.
15 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 28min
The Real Link Between M2, Bank Assets & Bitcoin’s $110,000 Strength
Dive into the intriguing link between Bitcoin's rise and M2 money supply trends. Explore how banking assets and fiscal stimuli during the pandemic have shaped the demand for Bitcoin. Understand the balance sheet mechanics of treasury issuance and its impact on liquidity. Discover the resilience of Bitcoin amid fiscal changes and what a potential summer rally could mean for the market. This engaging discussion sheds light on financial dynamics that could give investors a strategic edge.
Jul 1, 2025 • 23min
Mainstream Media Has FLIPPED on Bitcoin Mining
The podcast explores a notable shift in mainstream media’s portrayal of Bitcoin mining, highlighting its positive impacts. Examples from Iceland to Texas showcase how renewable energy powers these initiatives. Governments, like Bhutan, utilize Bitcoin mining for economic development, while miners contribute to energy grids. The discussion underlines Bitcoin’s potential as a driver of sustainability and access to energy, painting a new image of the sector as a public good.
