Epicenter - Learn about Crypto, Blockchain, Ethereum, Bitcoin and Distributed Technologies 2025 Rewind: End of the Infinite Money Glitch and Looking Ahead to 2026
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Dec 31, 2025 Reflecting on 2025, the hosts dive into the end of the 'infinite money glitch', signaling a shift to real revenue in the crypto space. They analyze the brutal altcoin market reset and the mainstream entrance of established players like Revolut and Stripe. Discussions include the quantum threat to Bitcoin and its cryptographic challenges. As they gaze into 2026, predictions of growing real-world assets and the evolving landscape of decentralized finance emerge, hinting at a cautious yet optimistic future.
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Teams Being Bought Out Of Token Plays
- Circle acquired Axelar's team, signaling exits where teams and cash replace token upside.
- Brian Fabian Crain sees token-for-equity dynamics reversing toward traditional deals.
Incumbents Deliver UX, Keep Distribution
- Big incumbents like Revolut and Stripe enter with superior UX but preserve centralized distribution.
- Friederike warns this may erode crypto's decentralization and co-ownership promises.
Using Revolut Shows UX Tradeoffs
- Sebastien notes Revolut's crypto integration as excellent for daily banking UX.
- He worries regulatory clarity will force trade-offs between UX and decentralization.