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
Sep 27, 2023 • 15min
Huobi Changes Name to HTX and Almost Immediately Gets Hacked
The podcast discusses high profile hacks in the crypto industry and the challenges of crypto custody and security. They touch upon recent security breaches and social engineering attacks. Topics include the solvency of Huobi (HTX), voice cloning technology, the acquisition of Celsius, and the SEC's objections to Coinbase's involvement in the distribution process.
Sep 25, 2023 • 14min
ByBit Vacates United Kingdom as "Crypto Hub" Dreams Falter
Crypto exchanges and brokers like PayPal and ByBit are leaving the UK due to unworkable regulations. The podcast discusses the regulatory changes affecting the UK, the optimism in Asian crypto markets, Coinbase's interest in FTX Europe, and the impact of new regulations on stablecoin issuers in Europe.
Sep 24, 2023 • 15min
How the Crypto Investing Landscape Has Changed
The podcast discusses the challenges and lessons learned from managing a crypto portfolio for five years, the changing job responsibilities and the crucial role of trade operations in the industry, the aspects of trade operations and compliance in the crypto investing landscape, the changing landscape of crypto investing and the importance of faith in the future.
Sep 23, 2023 • 27min
The Top Five Stories in Crypto This Week } SEC vs. Binance, Crypto Funds Raise and More
Crypto analyst Scott Melker joins NLW to discuss the top five stories in crypto this week, including the SEC vs. Binance dispute, the rise of crypto funds, support from Sam Bankman-Fried's parents, and the impact of the Federal Reserve's announcement on Bitcoin price.
Sep 23, 2023 • 14min
Could Oil and a Gov't Shutdown Screw Up Powell's Plans?
This podcast explores the impact of rising oil prices on the economy and the possibility of a government shutdown. It discusses production cuts by OPEC, Russia's ban on exporting fuel, and the potential consequences for Europe and the US. It also delves into the short-term impact of the Fed's messaging on oil prices, Republican dissent in Congress, and the challenges in passing crypto legislation amidst a chaotic political environment.
Sep 22, 2023 • 14min
The Hawkish Halt: Why the Market Finally Believes "Higher for Longer"
This podcast discusses the recent FOMC decision to keep rates consistent and explores why it is being called a hawkish pause. It delves into the Federal Reserve's outlook on interest rates and the market response to higher rates. The episode also highlights consumer dissatisfaction with the economy and future episodes will cover macro analysis on oil.
Sep 20, 2023 • 13min
Is the SEC About to Go Scorched Earth?
The podcast discusses the SEC's warning about pursuing more action against exchanges and DeFi protocols. The crypto industry questions the SEC's capacity to handle multiple legal battles. They also discuss the possibility of a coordinated defense fund in the crypto industry and global regulations. The validity of FSB recommendations and a UK bill granting authorities power to seize crypto assets are also debated. The challenges of regulating end-to-end encryption and updates on the JPX case are explored.
Sep 20, 2023 • 14min
Courts Hand SEC Half an L in Binance US Case
The podcast discusses the SEC's battle against Binance US, including the denial of an SEC request to compel Binance US to produce specific information. It explores the ongoing litigation, concerns about accounting practices, and potential misuse of customer funds. The podcast also analyzes the impact of the court case on the crypto industry and highlights the lack of evidence of Binance losing customer funds.
Sep 18, 2023 • 13min
Anti-CBDC Bills Advance in Congress
Anti-CBDC bills advance in Congress as surprising campaign issues. Hong Kong warns against unregistered crypto firms. JPEGs cryptocurrency exchange faces liquidity issues and fraud investigations. Regional crackdown on crypto and ongoing legal battle in the industry.
Sep 17, 2023 • 12min
Crypto Venture Funding is Down; But Bitcoin Building Continues
Exploring the potential of ordinals in building use cases on Bitcoin. The shift in venture capital interest from crypto to AI. The decline in global venture funding and deal volume. The decrease in crypto venture funding and the dominance of AI. The changing landscape of crypto venture capital funding in the current bear market.
