The Breakdown
Blockworks
The Breakdown dives into the deepest topics in crypto, blockchain, and the macro forces shaping markets and power structures. Each episode breaks down complex ideas into clear, grounded analysis — separating signal from noise across crypto, finance, and geopolitics.
Hosted by David Canellis, The Breakdown features explainers, interviews, and conversations with the people building, regulating, and challenging the financial system.
A Blockworks podcast.
Subscribe to The Breakdown newsletter: https://the-breakdown.carrd.co/
Hosted by David Canellis, The Breakdown features explainers, interviews, and conversations with the people building, regulating, and challenging the financial system.
A Blockworks podcast.
Subscribe to The Breakdown newsletter: https://the-breakdown.carrd.co/
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 6, 2023 • 13min
Macro Signals Are All Flashing Warnings
The podcast discusses the current sell-off in the US Treasury market and the reasons behind increased demand for treasuries. It explores the trade causing concern for systemic risk and the potential challenges for US government financing. The implications of a bear steepener in the bond market and other macro indicators are also discussed. Lastly, the increasing delinquencies in consumer loans and the spiking mortgage rates are examined.
Oct 5, 2023 • 17min
SBF Defense: "Blame Caroline! Also He's a Nerd."
The podcast covers the early days of the Sam Bankman-Fried trial, including jury selection, opening statements, and witness testimonies. The prosecution presents evidence of mishandling funds and fraud, while the defense blames Caroline Ellison and emphasizes Sam's lack of criminal intent. Surprising evidence is presented regarding customer deposits, and upcoming testimonies from Matt Huang and Gary Wang are anticipated.
Oct 4, 2023 • 14min
A Leading Candidate for Next Speaker of the House is One of Crypto's Biggest Allies in D.C.
Crypto ally Patrick McHenry is a leading candidate for Speaker of the House, along with current House whip Tom Emmer. They discuss potential impact on crypto legislation, the SEC's denial of an appeal in the Ripple case, and the judge's decision and its implications for the industry.
Oct 3, 2023 • 23min
The Sam Bankman-Fried Trial Begins - Everything You Need to Know
Sam Bankman-Fried, an individual on trial in New York, faces charges of wire fraud, securities fraud, commodities fraud, and money laundering. The podcast covers the aftermath of FTT token liquidation and speculations of fund misuse. It discusses Sam's bankruptcy, bail conditions, and defense strategies. The trial begins, and updates on trial procedural matters are provided, including potential legal troubles for Sam.
Oct 2, 2023 • 12min
Bitcoin Pops As Uptober Returns
Will Bitcoin have another green October? The podcast explores bullish catalysts and the launch of Ethereum Futures ETFs. The discussion also covers Valkyrie's strategy change, ETF competition, Van Eck's donation, Bitcoin spot ETF updates, and the benefits of tokenization in financial markets. Lastly, it touches on the transition to a bullish environment and the averted government shutdown.
4 snips
Oct 1, 2023 • 12min
Where Crypto Has Product-Market Fit (And Where It Doesn't)
The podcast discusses the concept of product-market fit in the crypto industry, emphasizing the need for desired products beyond income. They explore the role of NFTs in achieving product-market fit and the potential of bringing real-world assets onto the blockchain. The appeal of Bitcoin in countries with volatile monetary systems is also explored.
Sep 30, 2023 • 12min
ETH Futures ETFs Get Set to Trade as Government Shut Down Looms
This podcast discusses the potential trading of ETH Futures ETFs next week and the implications of a looming government shutdown. It also explores the ongoing dispute over government funding, the economic impact on the crypto industry, and recent developments in the Bitcoin custodian industry.
Sep 29, 2023 • 33min
The 5 Most Important Stories from Crypto This Week
Discussion on Valkyrie's Bitcoin ETF approval for Ethereum inclusion, delay in approving Bitcoin spot ETF, analysis of Gary Gensler's attitude towards committee hearing, upcoming Ethereum futures ETFs launch and Walmart's partnership with NFT brand Pudgy Penguins, and alarming occurrence of crypto hacks and security landscape.
Sep 29, 2023 • 13min
Congressional Republicans Lash Out At Gensler
Congressional Republicans express frustration with SEC Chair Gary Gensler during a hearing. They question his impartiality and regulatory approach to digital assets. Concerns are raised about crypto governance and his interpretation of 'investment contract'. Republicans call for subpoenas due to Gensler's evasive answers.
Sep 27, 2023 • 15min
Chokepoint Across the Pond: Chase UK Says No Crypto Transactions
Chase UK refuses crypto transactions to fight fraud, bipartisan group pushes SEC to approve Bitcoin ETF, concerns about de facto ban on crypto, SEC extends timeline for Bitcoin ETF applications.
