Empire
Blockworks
Dive into the world of finance, technology, and blockchain with "Empire by Blockworks," a leading podcast that delivers insightful discussions and expert analyses at the intersection of cryptocurrency and traditional finance. Each episode, hosted by experienced voices in the field, features interviews with entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders who are shaping the future of finance. Whether you're a seasoned investor, a curious observer, or someone who’s passionate about the transformative potential of digital assets, "Empire by Blockworks" offers deep dives into the most significant trends, strategies, and innovations driving the market today. Join us as we explore how blockchain technology is merging with financial services to create new opportunities and challenges. The podcast provides listeners with the tools and knowledge needed to understand these complex landscapes. Through compelling narratives and expert commentary, "Empire by Blockworks" not only elucidates the technological shifts but also the economic impacts and regulatory considerations. Each session is crafted to enlighten, educate, and inspire, making it an essential resource for anyone looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of finance.
Episodes
Why SAB-121 is Massive for Crypto | Round Up
In this episode of Blockworks' podcast, hosts Santiago Roel Santos and Jason Yanowitz tackle the pivotal role of SAB-121, a policy from the SEC that has stirred the crypto community due to its demanding requirements for crypto custodians. They discuss the bipartisan efforts in Congress to address the challenges posed by this policy, emphasizing its unexpected passage through both the House and Senate, highlighting the substantial bipartisan support it received. The episode also covers a variety of crypto-related topics, including security, online crime, and the involvement of political figures in cryptocurrency advocacy, providing a comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of cryptocurrency regulation and adoption.
Time To Be Bullish? | 1000x
In this episode of "Time To Be Bullish? | 1000x," hosts Avi Felman and Jonah Vaughn explore the current state of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies amid market fluctuations. They discuss the pivotal price points for Bitcoin, such as the implications of the currency surpassing $70k or dropping below $55k. The conversation also covers the role of ETFs, the impact of market sentiment, and the strategies for managing investment portfolios during uncertain times. Additionally, they highlight the influence of external economic factors like inflation and federal actions on cryptocurrency valuations.
The Dark Side of Token Launches | Arthur Cheong & Sean Lippel
In this episode, Arthur Cheong and Sean Lippel explore the volatile realm of token launches, revealing the discrepancies between investor expectations and market realities. They discuss the often-overlooked details that could lead to unsustainable growth patterns in cryptocurrency valuations. The conversation delves into the mechanics of token circulation and pricing, highlighting how limited initial circulations (low float) and high future diluted valuations (high FDV) could mislead investors about the true market potential of a new token. Both guests criticize the current models which, while enticing on paper, pose significant risks of market saturation and investor losses, suggesting a need for more realistic approaches and regulatory adjustments.
How to Fix Crypto Lending | Bill Barhydt, Abra
In a comprehensive discussion on the Empire podcast, hosted by Jason Yanowitz of Blockworks, Bill Barhydt, CEO of Abra, delves into the transformative changes in crypto lending. The conversation revolves around Abra’s recent developments, including their SEC-approved model allowing investments in DeFi through regulated frameworks. They discuss the failures of traditional crypto banks during the 2021 crisis, highlighting how Abra's risk management strategies differed. Key insights are provided into the advantages of separately managed accounts (SMAs) over pooled funds, emphasizing enhanced security and individual control over investments. The dialogue also touches on regulatory challenges and the potential future of banking integrating with blockchain and crypto assets.
Kraken: The Crypto Native's Powerhouse Exchange | Dave Ripley
In this engaging episode of Empire, host Jason Yanowitz celebrates Dave Ripley's one-year anniversary as CEO of Kraken. The conversation delves deep into the crypto exchange landscape, comparing Kraken's strategy and growth with its competitors, notably Coinbase. Ripley reflects on the challenges and achievements of his tenure, emphasizing Kraken's commitment to enhancing user experience and expanding its service offerings. The discussion also covers Kraken's marketing strategies, regulatory landscapes, and future plans in the rapidly evolving crypto industry. Ripley shares his thoughts on the potential implications of emerging technologies like L2 solutions and the impact of regulatory challenges on Kraken's operations and strategies.
Movement & Aptos: Making Security Sexy Again | Rushi Manche & Neil Harounian
Hosted by Santi from Blockworks, this episode of the "Empire" podcast features a detailed conversation with Neil Harounian, head of ecosystem at Aptos, and Rushi Manche, founder of Movement. They discuss the innovative approaches their organizations are taking to enhance blockchain security and scalability. Aptos, originating from a project at Facebook, aims to build a seamless money movement network capable of supporting billions, emphasizing scalable and upgradable infrastructure. Movement, building on Aptos, focuses on bridging EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine) landscapes with novel blockchain technologies to foster a secure environment for cryptocurrency transactions. The discussion highlights the vulnerabilities in current blockchain technologies, like Ethereum, and the efforts by Aptos and Movement to create a safer and more efficient alternative through the Move programming language and formal verification processes.
Time To Buy The Dip? | 1000x
In this episode of "1000x" by Blockworks, hosts Avi Felman and Jonah Breslau delve into the recent crypto market downturn, questioning if it's the right time for investors to buy the dip. The discussion pivots around the shifts in market dynamics, the psychology of bearish versus bullish markets, and strategic investment opportunities during market lows. The hosts explore various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, and discuss the importance of value buying in a momentum-driven market. The episode also features insights into the broader market, including potential political and economic influences on cryptocurrency valuations.
Building the Perfect Crypto Portfolio | Avi Felman & Roshun Patel
In this episode, Avi Felman and Roshun Patel discuss the dynamics of cryptocurrency investment and portfolio management, offering insights on adapting to the evolving market conditions. They critique the traditional notion of predictable market cycles in crypto, suggesting that the market is maturing and should now be viewed through a similar lens as more established assets like gold. They touch on various aspects of the market, from Bitcoin's shifting investor base to the role of ETFs in influencing market movements. The conversation also explores specific strategies for managing crypto investments, including considerations of risk, the impact of institutional investors, and the importance of understanding market inflows and outflows.
How to Value L1s, L2s, and Crypto Assets | Kyle Samani
In this informative episode of the Blockworks podcast, host Jason Yanowitz and guest Kyle Samani of Multicoin engage in a deep dive into the complexities of valuing L1 and L2 blockchain assets. The conversation covers the inadequate traditional metrics used in crypto valuations, such as simple revenue and cost models, and pivots to a more nuanced discussion on the importance of 'MEV' (Miner Extractable Value) and its impact on asset valuation. The episode challenges conventional wisdom and offers a unique perspective on the economic and technological factors that should be considered in the valuation process.
Behind the Scenes of Restaking | Brandon Curtis & Myles O'Neil
"Behind the Scenes of Restaking" features in-depth discussions with Brandon Curtis and Myles O'Neil about the latest advancements in crypto staking. The hosts, alongside their guests, explore the mechanisms of staking pools, the evolution of staking protocols, and the impact of these technologies on the broader crypto ecosystem. With insights from industry leaders, the episode illuminates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for investors and developers in the staking space.
CoinFund's Playbook for a Crypto Supercycle | Jake Brukhman & Seth Ginns
In this episode of the Empire podcast, hosted by Blockworks, Jake Brukhman and Seth Ginns of CoinFund discuss the upcoming crypto supercycle. They elaborate on the role of AI in accelerating productivity gains which could influence the Federal Reserve's monetary policy towards a more liquidity-friendly approach. The episode delves into CoinFund's growth, its strategic investment approaches across seed, venture, and liquid stages, and the broader impacts of these technologies on global economies. Discussions include the technical intricacies of blockchain and cryptocurrency investments, highlighting CoinFund's pioneering status in the crypto fund landscape and its innovative management strategies.
Does The Bitcoin Halving Still Matter? | 1000x
In this engaging episode of the "1000x" podcast by Blockworks, hosts Jonah and Avi delve into the recent Bitcoin halving event, its historical impact on Bitcoin's price, and how it intertwines with current geopolitical risks, especially those involving Israel and Iran. They discuss the economic and psychological factors influencing Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, touching upon broader market behaviors, the role of institutional investors, and potential shifts in trading strategies due to geopolitical tensions. Additionally, the episode covers the influence of oil market dynamics on Bitcoin's perception and potential future trends in the cryptocurrency market, particularly in light of regulatory and economic developments.
Why Layer 3s are Inevitable | Steven Goldfeder, Co-founder at Offchain Labs
In a detailed conversation, Steven Goldfeder of Offchain Labs discusses the inevitable shift towards Layer 3s in blockchain technology. The episode addresses the limitations of current Layer 2 solutions and how Layer 3s offer more flexibility, efficiency, and scalability, crucial for the future growth of blockchain networks. Goldfeder explains that as Layer 2 networks become congested, the demand for more specialized solutions leads to the development of Layer 3s, which provide customized environments for specific applications, improving transaction speeds and reducing costs. The episode also touches on various technological and strategic considerations essential for understanding the future trajectory of blockchain technology.
Uniswap vs SEC: The Bull and Bear Case | Roundup
The episode delves deep into the SEC's recent Wells notice to Uniswap, indicating impending regulatory scrutiny. Key discussions involve the ambiguity of charges, but speculation hints at issues around Uniswap operating as an unregistered exchange and broker. The episode reflects on similar historical cases like Coinbase and Binance, predicting potential outcomes and strategies for Uniswap. Additionally, the hosts discuss broader impacts on the crypto market, highlighting the regulatory challenges and the industry's response. Various crypto leaders and companies are mentioned, suggesting widespread concern and solidarity within the crypto community.