Will BlackRock Trigger Hyperbitcoinisation? With Alex Thorn
Where to find the show
Download Episode MP3 File
The file will open in a new window. Click down arrow to download the file.
SHOW DESCRIPTION
Alex Thorn is Head of Firmwide Research at Galaxy. In this interview, we discuss Bitcoin Park and others' efforts to promote Bitcoin, the impact of BlackRock's involvement in Bitcoin, and the legal battle between Coinbase and the SEC. We also talk about the need for education and inclusivity for Bitcoin, the importance of maintaining decentralization, and the impact of Bitcoin on the future.
- - - -
BlackRock is the world’s largest asset manager, with AUM in excess of $9 trillion. So, the news that they were throwing their hat into the spot Bitcoin ETF ring has unsurprisingly caused excitement and concern within the Bitcoin community. If BlackRock is successful it will materially widen access to Bitcoin, and significantly increase the buying pressure.
In terms of signal, this is perhaps the most important event in the validation of Bitcoin as an asset. Larry Fink, BlackRock’s CEO, has changed tack and is now endorsing Bitcoin as digital gold. Such comments penetrate more than those of other commentators and provide unparalleled credence to Bitcoin amongst the professional investing class.
The pressure on the SEC will only now increase as they review the latest batch of Bitcoin spot ETF applications. This is at a time when they are involved in a number of critical legal disputes, including their battle against Coinbase. The SEC’s approach - failing to provide formal rulemaking for the crypto markets whilst operating a divide-and-rule approach to individual companies - is "extremely stifling" to say the least.
That said, whilst increased engagement from traditional asset managers is welcomed, it also comes with material risks. There are rightfully severe concerns about their involvement's impact on efforts to promote self-custody and strengthen decentralisation. It is vital that those managing or advising new investments are educated on Bitcoin’s unique characteristics in ways that appeal, and that they are welcomed into the Bitcoin community.
Bitcoin needs to be understood and embraced by mainstream culture in order to achieve widespread adoption. The community, therefore, needs to make Bitcoin accessible to a diverse group of people, regardless of their backgrounds, experiences, geographies, and ideologies. At the same time, Bitcoin’s core values need to be protected. Strong, principled voices like Marty Bent, Stephan Livera, and Matt Odell, need to continue educating and guiding the community.
TIMESTAMPS
00:01:32: Introductions
00:02:28: Mashinsky and Celsius
00:04:48: Rap and other music
00:16:16: Real Bedford
00:26:06: About Alex, and BlackRock
00:30:31: ETF timing, structure and liquidity
00:40:56: Rejected ETFs, and SEC regulation
00:45:54: Hyperbitcoinisation, the risks and fears
00:56:19: Bitcoin education for institutions
01:05:11: Scaling Bitcoin and Bitcoin culture
01:26:19: Final comments
SUPPORT THE SHOW
If you enjoy The What Bitcoin Did Podcast you can help support the show by doing the following:
Become a Patron and join our Discord to get access to shows early or help contribute
Make a tip:
Subscribe on iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher | SoundCloud | YouTube | TuneIn | RSS Feed
Leave a review on iTunes
Share the show and episodes with your friends and family
Subscribe to the newsletter on my website
Follow me on Twitter Personal | Twitter Podcast | Instagram | Medium | YouTube
If you are interested in sponsoring the show, you can read more about that here or please feel free to drop me an email to discuss options.
SPONSORS
SHOW NOTES
Connect with Alex:
Mentioned in the interview:
BlackRock CEO Larry Fink Says Bitcoin Could ‘Revolutionize Finance’
Coinbase Still Faces Significant SEC Battle Despite Last Week's XRP Ruling: Analysts
Updated: Coinbase Files Mandamus Action to Compel SEC to Write Crypto Regulations
The Blocksize War – Chapter 18 – New York Agreement | Bitmex
Dennis Pourteaux (Pourteaux.xyz) on Bitcoin & Institutions - Galaxy Brains podcast
Other Relevant WBD Podcasts: