Empire

This week, we’re back with another weekly roundup to discuss the current state of markets as the S&amp;P hits a new all time high. We then deep dive into Tether's $150M recovery plan for Drift, Kraken's $200M raise, the impact on Microstrategy's $STRC, why have L2s underperformed and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
ZKsync is the Bank Stack of Ethereum. It is a network of chains secured by cryptography, not validators. Its cutting-edge ZK innovation enables the privacy, performance and connectivity that businesses need to thrive in the digital assets economy. 
 
To find out more visit: https://www.zksync.io/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction 
(03:11) State of The Market 
(12:40) The Hyperliquid Thesis 
(25:18) ZKsync Ad
(25:52) Tether’s $150M Drift Recovery Plan 
(28:17) The SEC’s New DeFi Guidance
(32:05) Microstrategy's $STRC 
(34:50) Kraken Raises $200M From Deutsche Börse
(40:53) Why Have L2s Underperformed 
(53:19) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Markets Bounce Back, The Hyperliquid Thesis and Kraken Raises $200M

This week, Adrian Cachinero Vasiljevic &amp; Luca Prosperi join the show to discuss what's next for DeFi in 2026. We deep dive into why are rates so low in DeFi today, how to mitigate risk, the growth of stablecoins, the fallout from Drift's exploit, the opportunity for prediction markets and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Adrian: https://x.com/adcv_
Follow Luca: https://x.com/LucaProsperi
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
Referenced in the show: 
 
https://kitchen.steakhouse.financial/
# 68 | The Physics of On-Chain Lending (I): https://dirtroads.substack.com/p/68-the-physics-of-on-chain-lending?triedRedirect=true
--
ZKsync is the Bank Stack of Ethereum. It is a network of chains secured by cryptography, not validators. Its cutting-edge ZK innovation enables the privacy, performance and connectivity that businesses need to thrive in the digital assets economy. 
 
To find out more visit: https://www.zksync.io/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(03:42) Why Are Rates in DeFi So Low?
(16:32) The Physics of Onchain Lending
(24:33) ZKsync Ad
(25:16) The Biggest Risk In DeFi Today
(52:58) What’s Next For DeFi In 2026 &amp; Beyond?
(01:02:18) How To Mitigate Risk In DeFi
(01:09:43) Fallout From Drift’s $280M Exploit
(01:15:15) Prediction Markets
(01:19:52) What's Exciting In Crypto Today? 
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

How To Make DeFi Great Again | Adrian Cachinero Vasiljevic & Luca Prosperi

This week, we’re back with another weekly roundup to discuss the biggest problem within DeFi today. We then deep dive into Anthropic's announcement of Mythos, the state of crypto fundraising, the biggest winners in crypto today, are we buying the dip and more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
ZKsync is the Bank Stack of Ethereum. It is a network of chains secured by cryptography, not validators. Its cutting-edge ZK innovation enables the privacy, performance and connectivity that businesses need to thrive in the digital assets economy. 
 
To find out more visit: https://www.zksync.io/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(03:32) Why Is DeFi Unattractive?
(26:45) ZKsync, Blockworks IR
(28:16) Anthropic Announces Mythos
(49:46) What’s Happening In Crypto Fundraising?
(57:34) The Biggest Winners in Crypto Today
(01:04:45) Are We Buying The Dip?
(01:13:35) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Why DeFi Is Unattractive, Claude Mythos and Cryptos's Biggest Winners

This week, the Hivemind team breaks down the ceasefire in Iran and how it could impact markets going forward. We then deep dive into the 2026 IPO window, is AI a bubble, the fallout of Drift's $280M exploit, Polymarkets recent announcement and more. Enjoy!
--
To stay up to date with future Hivemind episodes:
 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Delphi_Digital
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2AE858NXDnaIlXP6sWfLj6?si=2019bc45ec914220
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hivemind/id1704667885
--
Follow Ceteris: ⁠https://x.com/ceterispar1bus⁠ 
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/3xliquidated⁠ 
Follow Yan: https://x.com/YanLiberman
Follow Jose: https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo
Follow Kevin: https://x.com/Kevin_Kelly_II
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod⁠ 
 
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠ 
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠ 
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠ 
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/⁠
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:50) State of The Market
(09:53) Finding Opportunities In Crypto
(15:15) Is AI In a Bubble?
(26:35) The Return of Active Investing
(37:42) Prediction Markets
(51:40) The Drift Exploit Fallout
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Ceasefire In Iran, Is AI a Bubble & Drift Exploited For $280M

This week, Charles Cascarilla joins the show to discuss the current state of crypto and the future of Paxos. We deep dive into Paxos’ origin story and business model, the growth of stablecoin payments, whether Paxos may look to IPO in 2027, Charles' advice for founders and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Charles: https://x.com/chadcascarilla
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
ZKsync is the Bank Stack of Ethereum. It is a network of chains secured by cryptography, not validators. Its cutting-edge ZK innovation enables the privacy, performance and connectivity that businesses need to thrive in the digital assets economy. 
 
To find out more visit: https://www.zksync.io/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction 
(02:03) The State of Crypto Today 
(22:24) How To Fix The U.S Debt Problem 
(32:24) ZKsync Ad, Blockworks IR
(33:56) Behind The Paxos Business Model
(43:32) Why Binance’s $BUSD Would Have Been The Largest Stablecoin
(50:12) The GENIUS Act &amp; The Global Dollar Network 
(59:46) Agentic Payments 
(01:05:32) Will Paxos IPO?
(01:17:06) Advice For Founders
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Paxos CEO on Crypto Today & Why Stablecoins Are Exploding | Charles Cascarilla

Making Tokenization a Reality: Bringing Assets Onchain
 
Speakers: Samara Cohen, Jason Yanowitz
 
This is a panel from DAS New York 2026. To explore more Blockworks events, visit blockworks.co/events

Making Tokenization a Reality: Bringing Assets Onchain | Samara Cohen

Inside Western Union's Stablecoin Fueled Future

Speakers: Jason Yanowitz, Devin McGranahan

This is a panel from DAS New York 2026. To explore more Blockworks events, visit blockworks.co/events

Western Union CEO: Western Union's Stablecoin Future

This week, we’re back with another roundup covering whether it’s time to buy the dip, crypto’s VC mass extinction event, the state of secondary markets, Drift’s $280M exploit, Bitcoin’s quantum threat and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
ZKsync is the Bank Stack of Ethereum. It is a network of chains secured by cryptography, not validators. Its cutting-edge ZK innovation enables the privacy, performance and connectivity that businesses need to thrive in the digital assets economy. 
 
To find out more visit: https://www.zksync.io/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(05:34) Time To Buy The Dip?
(10:42) Crypto’s VC Mass Extinction Event
(23:55) Crypto's Token Reset
(39:25) ZKsync Ad
(40:07) Blockworks Investor Relations
(40:58) Drift Exploited For $280M
(59:28) Bitcoin's Quantum Threat
(01:10:18) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

The Two Biggest Issues In Crypto Today | Weekly Roundup

This week, Dmitry Tokarev joins the show to discuss how he built one of crypto's largest institutional custody platforms. We deep dive into the Copper origin story, what's broken with crypto custody today, Dmitry's new venture (Bron) and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Dmitry: https://x.com/tokarev_d
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
ZKsync is the Bank Stack of Ethereum. It is a network of chains secured by cryptography, not validators. Its cutting-edge ZK innovation enables the privacy, performance and connectivity that businesses need to thrive in the digital assets economy
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(05:14) The Copper Origin Story
(14:55) How To Scale a Company
(19:07) ZKsync Ad
(19:50) Blockworks Investor Relations 
(20:40) Building Bron: How To Fix Crypto Custody
(34:18) Why Bron Is Launching a Token
(43:10) Lessons Learned From Fundraising
(48:35) What To Own in 2026?
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Copper Founder: Building a Billion Dollar Company & Fixing Crypto Custody

This week, we’re back with another weekly roundup live at DAS to discuss our takeaways from the conference. We deep dive into the institutional bull market, the state of angel and venture investing in crypto, Western Union's stablecoin pivot and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
ZKsync is the Bank Stack of Ethereum. It is a network of chains secured by cryptography, not validators. Its cutting-edge ZK innovation enables the privacy, performance and connectivity that businesses need to thrive in the digital assets economy. 
 
To find out more visit: https://www.zksync.io/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:48) Takeaways From DAS
(07:16) Is Crypto in a Bull or Bear Market?
(13:55) Angel Investing and Crypto Venture Capital
(24:48) ZKsync Ad
(24:24) Blockworks Investor Relations
(26:13) Western Union’s Stablecoin Flywheel
(33:17) The Bear Case For Stablecoins
(38:30) Final Takeaways From DAS
(43:25) Sports Betting On Prediction Markets
(48:15) Audience Questions
(52:10) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

It's Still a Bull Market, But Not The One You Wanted

This week, the Hivemind team breaks down the current market reaction as conflcit in Iran continues. We then deep dive into Delphi's recent trip to China, the end game for Michael Saylor, where to invest in Chinese AI and more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Ceteris: ⁠https://x.com/ceterispar1bus⁠ 
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/3xliquidated⁠ 
Follow Yan: https://x.com/YanLiberman
Follow Jose: https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo
Follow Rawson: https://x.com/PonderingDurian
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod⁠ 
 
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠ 
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠ 
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠ 
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/⁠
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:16) State of The Market 
(17:30) What’s Saylor’s End Game? 
(24:55) AI Growth in China 
(49:37) Takeaways From Visiting China
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: State of The Market, Saylor’s End Game & AI Growth in China

In this special episode, we introduce Blockworks’ new investor relations platform for onchain businesses.
 
As institutional capital continues to enter crypto markets, expectations around transparency, standardization, and professionalism are rising. But instead of replicating legacy systems, Blockworks IR takes a different approach, leveraging real-time, onchain data to create a more transparent, data-driven, and low-friction investor relations model.
 
The platform combines curated analytics, branded investor portals, and white-glove advisory support into a single solution, helping teams tell a clearer, more credible story while giving investors a more efficient way to evaluate opportunities.
 
Launched at the Digital Asset Summit in New York, Blockworks IR aims to fill a critical gap in the industry. Listen to learn more about the vision behind the product and what it means for the future of investor relations in crypto.

Investor Relations in the Onchain Era

This week, we’re back with another weekly roundup to discuss the current state of markets as conflict in Iran continues. We then deep dive into Hyperliquid's announcement with S&amp;P, how to value Hyperliquid, Tempo's mainnet launch, Kraken's reported IPO delay &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
Join us at DAS (Digital Asset Summit) in New York City this March! Follow the link below to grab your ticket, and use code EMPIRE200 to get $200 off your ticket! 
 
https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-nyc-2026
--
ZKsync is the Bank Stack of Ethereum. It is a network of chains secured by cryptography, not validators. Its cutting-edge ZK innovation enables the privacy, performance and connectivity that businesses need to thrive in the digital assets economy. 
 
To find out more visit: https://www.zksync.io/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:08) State of The Market
(09:38) ZKsync Ad
(10:20) DAS Plug
(10:46) S&amp;P Licenses S&amp;P 500 Perps on Hyperliquid
(24:45) Tempo &amp; Agentic Payments
(47:02) Kraken’s IPO Delay
(50:45) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

State of The Market, How to Value Hyperliquid & Tempo Launches Mainnet

This week, we’re back with another weekly roundup on the equity vs. token debate in crypto. We dive deep into Across Protocol’s proposal to convert its token into equity before covering Kraken’s Fedwire approval, Ripple’s $50B valuation, and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
Join us at DAS (Digital Asset Summit) in New York City this March! Follow the link below to grab your ticket, and use code EMPIRE200 to get $200 off your ticket! 
 
https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-nyc-2026
--
ZKsync is the Bank Stack of Ethereum. It is a network of chains secured by cryptography, not validators. Its cutting-edge ZK innovation enables the privacy, performance and connectivity that businesses need to thrive in the digital assets economy. 
 
To find out more visit: https://www.zksync.io/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(08:36) Across To Convert Their Token to Equity 
(23:47) Crypto’s Token vs Equity Problem 
(36:52) ZKsync Ad
(37:34) DAS Plug
(38:00) Mastercard’s Crypto Partner Program 
(47:05) Ripple’s $50B Valuation 
(54:35) Kraken’s Gets Approved to Fedwire 
(01:00:57) Content of The Week 
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

How To Fix Crypto's Token Problem | Weekly Roundup

This week, Jake Chervinsky &amp; MC Lader join the show to discuss the growth of Hyperliquid in 2026 and beyond. We deep dive into Hyperliquid's 24/7 markets thesis, how Native Markets won the USDH proposal, founding the Hyperliquid Policy Center, regulation in 2026 and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow MC: https://x.com/Mclader
Follow Jake: https://x.com/jchervinsky
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
Join us at DAS (Digital Asset Summit) in New York City this March! Follow the link below to grab your ticket, and use code EMPIRE200 to get $200 off your ticket! 
 
https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-nyc-2026
--
ZKsync is the Bank Stack of Ethereum. It is a network of chains secured by cryptography, not validators. Its cutting-edge ZK innovation enables the privacy, performance and connectivity that businesses need to thrive in the digital assets economy.
 
To find out more visit: https://www.zksync.io/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:45) The Hyperliquid 24/7 Markets Thesis
(06:02) Founding The Hyperliquid Policy Center
(15:45) The State of DeFi Regulation
(18:59) ZKsync Ad
(19:34) The Hyperliquid USDH Proposal
(29:59) Stablecoin Regulation In The US
(38:05) The Hyperliquid 24/7 Markets Thesis
(44:40) The Future of Stablecoins
(57:53) Crypto Regulation In 2026 &amp; Beyond
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

How Hyperliquid Unlocks 24/7 Markets | Jake Chervinsky & MC Lader

This week, we're back with another weekly roundup where we discuss the current state of markets as Bitcoin holds steady around $70k. We then deep dive into how to unlock 24/7 markets, insider trading on prediction markets, recent VC fundraises &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire:https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
Join us at DAS (Digital Asset Summit) in New York City this March! Follow the link below to grab your ticket, and use code EMPIRE200 to get $200 off your ticket! https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-nyc-2026
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
 (03:20) State of The Market
 (08:05) How To Unlock 24/7 Markets
 (18:54) DAS Plug
 (19:20) Insider Trading On Prediction Markets
 (52:58) OKX Raises At a $25B Valuation
 (55:34) a16z &amp; Paradigm Raising $3.5B
 (01:09:33) Will Crypto Prices Recover?
 (01:13:16) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

State of The Market, Polymarket Insider Trading & a16z Raising $2B | Weekly Roundup 

This week, the Hivemind team breaks down the current market sentiment as crypto tries to put in a bottom. We deep dive into reasons to be optimistic, the convergence of crypto and AI, Citrini's AI piece &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Ceteris: ⁠https://x.com/ceterispar1bus⁠ 
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/3xliquidated⁠ 
Follow Yan: https://x.com/YanLiberman
Follow Jose: https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod⁠ 
 
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠ 
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠ 
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠ 
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/⁠
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:41) State of The Market
(09:27) Venice AI &amp; Crypto’s AI Moment
(26:52) Positioning For The AI Trade
(52:30) Citrini’s AI Piece
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Can Bitcoin Reclaim $80k, State of The Market & The AI Trade

In this first episode of Inflection Point, we explore the accelerating convergence between traditional finance and crypto as institutional adoption begins reshaping the foundations of global financial infrastructure. The conversation examines ETFs, DeFi innovation, market structure shifts, institutional flows, and how evolving investor behavior is changing Bitcoin and digital asset markets. Along the way, we discuss regulation, credit markets, technology limitations, and the broader implications of finance moving onchain. Enjoy!
—
Inflection Point:
Apple 🎙️: https://bit.ly/3QKdX5a 
Spotify 🎙️: https://bit.ly/3YhGJy3
YouTube 🎥: https://link.blockworks.co/46Cee2q 
—
Follow Matt: <a href="https://x.com/Matt_Hougan">⁠⁠https://x.com/Matt_Hougan⁠⁠</a>
Follow David: <a href="https://x.com/dlawant">⁠⁠https://x.com/dlawant⁠⁠</a>
Follow Michael: <a href="https://x.com/marcryptonio">⁠⁠https://x.com/marcryptonio⁠⁠</a>
Follow Marc: <a href="https://x.com/marcarjoon">⁠⁠https://x.com/marcarjoon⁠⁠</a>
Follow Inflection Point: <a href="https://x.com/BWInflection">⁠⁠https://x.com/BWInflection⁠⁠</a> 
Follow Blockworks: <a href="https://x.com/Blockworks_">⁠⁠https://x.com/Blockworks_⁠⁠</a>  
—
Join us at Digital Asset Summit 2026 in NYC March 24-26th! Use code INFLECTION200 for $200 OFF!
<a href="https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-nyc-2026">⁠⁠https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-nyc-2026⁠⁠</a>
—
Timestamps
(00:00) Intro To Inflection Point
(06:48) The Convergence Between TradFi &amp; Crypto
(22:20) Crypto's Biggest Advantages &amp; Hurdles
(36:15) Crypto's Changing Market Structure
(41:00) Prices, Sentiment &amp; Long-Term Allocators
(46:00) Evolution Of Crypto Options &amp; Yield
(51:30) Is The 4-Year Cycle Dead?
(01:02:00) Final Thoughts
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Inflection Point is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are opinions, not financial advice. Hosts and guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.
#Crypto #DeFi #Bitcoin #Blockchain #DigitalAssets #CryptoPodcast

Introducing: Inflection Point | The Crypto-TradFi Convergence

This week, we're back with another weekly roundup where we discuss the recent lawsuit filed by Terraform Labs against Jane Street. We then deep dive into Circle's earnings, Tether's investment in Whop, Robinhood's Venture fund &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire:https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
Join us at DAS (Digital Asset Summit) in New York City this March! Follow the link below to grab your ticket, and use code EMPIRE200 to get $200 off your ticket! https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-nyc-2026
--
Coinbase crypto-backed loans, powered by Morpho, enable you to take out loans at competitive rates using crypto as collateral. Rates are typically 4% to 8%. Borrow up to $5M using BTC as collateral and up to $1M using ETH as collateral. 
 
Manage crypto-backed loans directly in the Coinbase app with ease. Learn more here: 
https://www.coinbase.com/onchain/borrow/get-started?utm_campaign=0126_defi-borrow_blockworks_empire&amp;marketId=0x9103c3b4e834476c9a62ea009ba2c884ee42e94e6e314a26f04d312434191836&amp;utm_source=empire
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:40) Terraform Labs Sues Jane Street
(28:40) Coinbase Ad
(29:24) DAS Plug
(29:51) Circle Beats Earnings 
(39:32) Would You Rather Own Stripe or Circle? 
(46:10) Robinhood’s Venture Fund  
(56:04) Tether Invests $200M In Whop 
(01:19:37) Content of The Week 
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Terra vs Jane Street, Circle Earnings & Robinhood’s Venture Fund | Weekly Roundup

This week, Bryan Pellegrino and Raz Zarick from LayerZero join the show to discuss Zero, the 100x breakthrough in blockchain architecture. We deep dive into the Zero origin story, the roadmap for 2026, LayerZero's ultimate vision, how to build a moat in crypto, hiring top talent and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Bryan: https://x.com/PrimordialAA
Follow Raz: https://x.com/ryanzarick
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
Coinbase crypto-backed loans, powered by Morpho, enable you to take out loans at competitive rates using crypto as collateral. Rates are typically 4% to 8%. Borrow up to $5M using BTC as collateral and up to $1M using ETH as collateral. 
 
Manage crypto-backed loans directly in the Coinbase app with ease. Learn more here: 
https://www.coinbase.com/onchain/borrow/get-started?utm_campaign=0126_defi-borrow_blockworks_empire&amp;marketId=0x9103c3b4e834476c9a62ea009ba2c884ee42e94e6e314a26f04d312434191836&amp;utm_source=empire
--
Join us at DAS (Digital Asset Summit) in New York City this March! Follow the link below to grab your ticket, and use code EMPIRE200 to get $200 off your ticket! 
 
https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-nyc-2026
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:53) The Zero Origin Story
(13:55) Zero's 100x Breakthrough
(22:10) Achieving 2 Million TPS
(32:29) Coinbase Ad
(33:14) DAS Plug
(33:40) How To Build A Moat In Crypto?
(48:05) LayerZero’s Ultimate Vision
(57:37) The Impact of AI
(01:06:25) Zero’s Roadmap In 2026
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Zero Just Made Blockchains 100x Better | Bryan Pellegrino & Raz Zarick

This week, we're back with another weekly roundup where Rob walks us through Dragonfly's most recent $650M raise. We deep dive into the state of crypto VC, what allocators look for when deploying into crypto, whether tokens are investable in 2026, if Base will launch a token, and more. Enjoy.
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire:https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
Join us at DAS (Digital Asset Summit) in New York City this March! Follow the link below to grab your ticket, and use code EMPIRE200 to get $200 off your ticket! 

https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-nyc-2026
--
Coinbase crypto-backed loans, powered by Morpho, enable you to take out loans at competitive rates using crypto as collateral. Rates are typically 4% to 8%. Borrow up to $5M using BTC as collateral and up to $1M using ETH as collateral. 
 
Manage crypto-backed loans directly in the Coinbase app with ease. Learn more here: 
https://www.coinbase.com/onchain/borrow/get-started?utm_campaign=0126_defi-borrow_blockworks_empire&amp;marketId=0x9103c3b4e834476c9a62ea009ba2c884ee42e94e6e314a26f04d312434191836&amp;utm_source=empire
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:47) Inside Dragonfly’s $650M Raise
(10:57) The State of Crypto VC
(30:19) Coinbase Ad
(31:03) DAS Plug
(31:28) Are Tokens Investable?
(40:54) Will Base Launch A Token?
(45:23) Hyperliquid’s Policy Center
(48:55) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Inside Dragonfly’s $650M Raise | Weekly Roundup

This week, the Hivemind team breaks down the current market chop as equities trade sideways and crypto tries to hold on after a huge downturn. We deep dive into whether we’ve finally bottomed, reasons to be optimistic, AI’s impact on markets, Aave’s value accrual, and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Ceteris: ⁠https://x.com/ceterispar1bus⁠ 
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/3xliquidated⁠ 
Follow Yan: https://x.com/YanLiberman
Follow Flip: https://x.com/trevor_flipper
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod⁠ 
 
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠ 
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠ 
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠ 
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/⁠
--
(00:00) Introduction
(01:24) Market Outlook
(18:54) AI’s Impact on Markets
(27:18) Reasons To Be Optimistic In 2026
(36:20) Aave’s Value Accrual
(45:28) Base, Zora &amp; Pair Trades
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Surviving Market Chop, Is Crypto Bottoming & Reasons to Be Optimistic in 2026

In the Quadrillions finale, we map the power shift from crypto building parallel markets to institutions integrating onchain rails into traditional finance. With Ribbit Capital’s Nick Shalek, and Goldman’s Mathew McDermott, we break down why the last wave of adoption stalled, why distribution beats ideology, and how networks like Canton are building from the inside out. This is the blueprint for “The New Wall Street.”
--
Follow Canton: https://x.com/CantonNetwork
Follow Nick: https://x.com/nshalek
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(1:37) Ribbit Capital's Tokenization Letter
(4:22) FinTech Companies Moving Onchain &amp; Institutional Adoption
(15:01) Crypto at Goldman Sachs Today
(17:53) What Held Crypto Back?
(20:33) What Canton Brings to the Market
(29:25) Crypto's Institutional Pitch
(33:14) Permissioned and Permissionless Chains Are Symbiotic
(39:23) Closing Comments
--
Disclaimer: “Quadrillions” is a mini-series produced by Blockworks, and is sponsored by Canton Network. Nothing on this show is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. It’s for informational purposes only, and the views expressed by anyone on the show are solely their opinions, not financial advice or necessarily the views of Blockworks.
 
Our hosts, guests, and the Blockworks team may hold positions in companies, funds, or projects discussed, including those related to Canton Network.

Quadrillions: The New Wall Street | Nick Shalek & Mathew McDermott

This week, Brett DiNovi and Lei Yang join the show to discuss the path forward for L2s. We deep dive into why we need L2s, MegaETH's 2026 roadmap, how to build a successful ecosystem, lessons learned from building MegaETH, and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Brett: https://x.com/bread_
Follow Lei: https://x.com/yangl1996
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
Coinbase crypto-backed loans, powered by Morpho, enable you to take out loans at competitive rates using crypto as collateral. Rates are typically 4% to 8%. Borrow up to $5M using BTC as collateral and up to $1M using ETH as collateral. 
 
Manage crypto-backed loans directly in the Coinbase app with ease. Learn more here: 
https://www.coinbase.com/onchain/borrow/get-started?utm_campaign=0126_defi-borrow_blockworks_empire&amp;marketId=0x9103c3b4e834476c9a62ea009ba2c884ee42e94e6e314a26f04d312434191836&amp;utm_source=empire
--
Join us at DAS (Digital Asset Summit) in New York City this March! Follow the link below to grab your ticket, and use code EMPIRE200 to get $200 off your ticket! 
 
https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-nyc-2026
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
 (01:57) Vitalik’s Post On L2s
 (05:30) Do We Need L2s?
 (11:52) What’s MegaETHs Moat?
 (29:00) Ethereum’s Security Value
 (33:53) Coinbase Ad
 (34:38) DAS plug
 (35:03) Value Accrual &amp; What's Next For MegaETH?
 (51:49) How To Build An Ecosystem?
 (1:09:14) Lessons Learned From Building MegaETH
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

MegaETH in 2026 & Ethereum's L2 End Game | Brett DiNovi & Lei Yang

This week, Rebecca Rettig joins the show to discuss the latest happening in Washington and what it means for crypto. We deep dive into the Clarity act, how to regulate prediction markets, who's crypto's enemy now, the state of crypto VC, LayerZero's Zero announcement and more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Rebecca: https://x.com/RebeccaRettig1
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
Referenced In The Show: https://open.spotify.com/episode/67w8irQ06j6ZH38FsXSShf?si=5633bb7bb6a248b9&amp;nd=1&amp;dlsi=d7d519562e884e70
 
--
Coinbase crypto-backed loans, powered by Morpho, enable you to take out loans at competitive rates using crypto as collateral. Rates are typically 4% to 8%. Borrow up to $5M using BTC as collateral and up to $1M using ETH as collateral. 
 
Manage crypto-backed loans directly in the Coinbase app with ease. Learn more here: 
https://www.coinbase.com/onchain/borrow/get-started?utm_campaign=0126_defi-borrow_blockworks_empire&amp;marketId=0x9103c3b4e834476c9a62ea009ba2c884ee42e94e6e314a26f04d312434191836&amp;utm_source=empire
--
Timestsamps:
(00:00) Introduction
 (01:57) The State of Crypto Policy In DC
 (27:24) Coinbase Ad
 (28:08) Das Plug
 (28:34) Prediction Markets
 (36:50) Who’s Crypto’s Enemy Now?
 (52:35) The State of Crypto VC
 (01:01:15) LayerZero’s Zero Announcement
 (01:13:01) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

The Clarity Act, State of Crypto VC & LayerZero Launches Zero | Weekly Roundup

This week, Charles Yoo-Naut joins the show to unpack Rain's explosive growth and what's next for crypto payments. We deep dive into the Rain origin story, their recent $250M fundraise, partnering with Visa, who wins the crypto card race, how Rain grew to a $2B company, and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Charles: https://x.com/cnaut
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
Coinbase crypto-backed loans, powered by Morpho, enable you to take out loans at competitive rates using crypto as collateral. Rates are typically 4% to 8%. Borrow up to $5M using BTC as collateral and up to $1M using ETH as collateral. 
 
Manage crypto-backed loans directly in the Coinbase app with ease. Learn more here: 
https://www.coinbase.com/onchain/borrow/get-started?utm_campaign=0126_defi-borrow_blockworks_empire&amp;marketId=0x9103c3b4e834476c9a62ea009ba2c884ee42e94e6e314a26f04d312434191836&amp;utm_source=empire
--
"Mantle Global Hackathon 2025 is live! Running from Oct 22 to Dec 31, Mantle invites builders to design the future of Real-World Assets (RWAs) on its modular L2 stack.
Key Highlights:
- $150,000 Prize Pool + Grants &amp; Incubation opportunities
 
- Access to Bybit's 7M+ verified users
 
- Judges from Bybit Ventures, Spartan, Animoca Brands
 
- 6 Tracks: RWA/RealFi, DeFi, AI, ZK, Infra, GameFi
Join the Hackathon: https://www.hackquest.io/vi/hackathons/Mantle-Global-Hackathon-2025"
--
This Empire episode is brought to you by VanEck.
Learn more about the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF (NODE): http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE
 
An investment in the Fund involves a substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. It is possible to lose your entire principal investment. The Fund may invest nearly all of its net assets in either Digital Transformation Companies and/or Digital Asset Instruments. The Fund does not invest in digital assets or commodities directly.
 
Digital asset instruments may be subject to risks associated with investing in digital asset exchange-traded products (“ETPs”), which include the historical extreme volatility of the digital asset and cryptocurrency market, as well as less regulation and thus fewer investor protections, as these ETPs are not investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) or commodity pools for the purposes of
the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”).
 
Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. Visit vaneck.com to read and consider the prospectus, containing the investment objective, risks, and fees of the fund, carefully before investing.
 
© Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation.
--
Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi. 
 
Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. https://hub.uniswap.org/?utm_source=blockworks&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=ww_web_bw_awa_trading-api_20251117_podcast_clicks
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:52) The Rain Origin Story
(15:23) Partnering With Visa
(30:05) The Opportunity In Emerging Markets 
(36:48) Ads (Coinbase, Mantle, VanEck, Uniswap)
(40:16) The Crypto Card Race, Agentic Payments &amp; Onchain Credit
(48:00) What Chains Does Rain Work With? 
(53:28) Rain’s Journey To Raising $250m 
(01:03:00) How Rain Grew To A $2B Company 
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

How Rain Grew To A $2B Company | Charles Yoo-Naut

This week, Josh Lim from FalconX joins the show to discuss the recent market sell-off. We deep dive into Josh's outlook for 2026, who is crypto's marginal buyer, the Ethereum L2 roadmap, Kyle Samani's announcement of leaving Multicoin and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Josh: https://x.com/joshua_j_lim
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire:https://x.com/theempirepod 
--
Coinbase crypto-backed loans, powered by Morpho, enable you to take out loans at competitive rates using crypto as collateral. Rates are typically 4% to 8%. Borrow up to $5M using BTC as collateral and up to $1M using ETH as collateral. 
 
Manage crypto-backed loans directly in the Coinbase app with ease. Learn more here: 
https://www.coinbase.com/onchain/borrow/get-started?utm_campaign=0126_defi-borrow_blockworks_empire&amp;marketId=0x9103c3b4e834476c9a62ea009ba2c884ee42e94e6e314a26f04d312434191836&amp;utm_source=empire
--
(00:00) Introduction
(03:41) State of the Market
(08:48) Josh's Outlook For 2026
(18:45) The SaaS-Pocalypse &amp; Crypto's Marginal Buyer
(26:12) Coinbase Ad
(26:58) The Crypto to AI Rotation
(37:24) The Ethereum L2 Roadmap
(47:27) Kyle Samani Leaves Multicoin
(01:01:45) Why Is Josh Still In Crypto?
(01:03:57) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Why Is Crypto Crashing? | Weekly Roundup

This week, the Hivemind team breaks down the continued sell-off in markets, from crypto to software. We deep-dive into the historical L1 premium, the endgame for Hyperliquid, Bitcoin's quantum threat, Vitalik's post on L2s, and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Ceteris: ⁠https://x.com/ceterispar1bus⁠ 
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/3xliquidated⁠ 
Follow Yan: https://x.com/YanLiberman
Follow LTR: https://x.com/maybeltr
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod⁠ 
 
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠ 
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠ 
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠ 
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/⁠
--
(00:00) Introduction
(00:48) State of The Market
(13:15) Are L1s Still Overvalued?
(22:50) The Hyperliquid End Game
(31:38) Bitcoin’s Quantum Threat
(36:42) Ethereum’s L2 Roadmap
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Are L1s Still Overvalued, Hyperliquid’s End Game & State of The Market  

In this episode, we break down the state of stablecoins and why they’ve been able to bridge the gap into TradFi’s mainstream. Who’s adopting stablecoins and why? How are stablecoins changing the financial and legislative landscape? And what does this mean for the future of the larger crypto landscape? 
--
Follow Canton: https://x.com/CantonNetwork
Follow Mo: https://x.com/Mo_Bps
Follow Eric: https://x.com/wesarn_real
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(1:56) The Evolution of Stablecoins
(8:43) The Stablecoin Stack
(11:16) Who is Building on HIFI?
(12:57) Cross-border Payments
(15:55) Stablecoin Market Share
(22:49) Canton's Stablecoin Strategy
(26:09) The Stablecoin Landscape
(28:33) The Importance of Privacy
(31:58) Stablecoin Fragmentation
(35:05) Agentic Payments
(36:52) General Purpose vs Specialized Chains
(41:29) What is the Industry Missing?
(45:06) Closing Comments
--
Disclaimer: “Quadrillions” is a mini-series produced by Blockworks, and is sponsored by Canton Network. Nothing on this show is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. It’s for informational purposes only, and the views expressed by anyone on the show are solely their opinions, not financial advice or necessarily the views of Blockworks.
 
Our hosts, guests, and the Blockworks team may hold positions in companies, funds, or projects discussed, including those related to Canton Network.

Quadrillions: Stablecoins: We’ve Only Just Begun | Mohamed Afifi

This week, we’re joined by CEO and Co-founder of BitGo, Mike Belshe, to discuss BitGo’s IPO, their motivations for going public, and the IPO process. We dive into allocation decisions, key product growth areas, and views on regulation, crypto market structure, and future industry evolution. Enjoy!
–
Follow Mike: https://x.com/mikebelshe
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
–
Coinbase crypto-backed loans, powered by Morpho, enable you to take out loans at competitive rates using crypto as collateral. Rates are typically 4% to 8%. Borrow up to $5M using BTC as collateral and up to $1M using ETH as collateral. Manage crypto-backed loans directly in the Coinbase app with ease. Learn more here: 
https://www.coinbase.com/onchain/borrow/get-started?utm_campaign=0126_defi-borrow_blockworks_empire&amp;marketId=0x9103c3b4e834476c9a62ea009ba2c884ee42e94e6e314a26f04d312434191836&amp;utm_source=empire 
–
Timestamps:
(01:50) BitGos IPO &amp; Early Supporters
(07:22) Why go public
(09:45) The IPO Process
(30:39) Determining Allocations
(37:49) Ads (Coinbase)
(38:41) BitGos Role as an infrastructure company
(46:15) BitGo's Fastest Growing Products
(58:20) BitGo going forward
(01:02:37) Web2 vs web3
(01:06:41) BitGo's Journey &amp; Lessons Learned
(01:14:39) Replacing the Incumbents
—--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Why BitGo Went Public | Mike Belshe

This week, we break down the evolving DePIN thesis, from real revenue traction to infra financing, regulation, and why some networks are finally compounding at scale. We also discuss the boom in Hyperliquid RWAs, bringing money &amp; companies onchain, 2026 IPOs, and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Salvador: https://x.com/DAnconia_Crypto 
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz 
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM 
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel 
Follow Empire:https://x.com/theempirepod    
--
Coinbase crypto-backed loans, powered by Morpho, enable you to take out loans at competitive rates using crypto as collateral. Rates are typically 4% to 8%. Borrow up to $5M using BTC as collateral and up to $1M using ETH as collateral. Manage crypto-backed loans directly in the Coinbase app with ease. Learn more here: 
https://www.coinbase.com/onchain/borrow/get-started?utm_campaign=0126_defi-borrow_blockworks_empire&amp;marketId=0x9103c3b4e834476c9a62ea009ba2c884ee42e94e6e314a26f04d312434191836&amp;utm_source=empire  
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Intro
(00:44) Escape Velocity $61.74M Raise
(05:500 The Case For DePIN
(12:34) InfraFi And Bringing Money Onchain
(22:07) Bear Case For DePIN And Top DePINs
(30:57) Ads (Coinbase)
(31:42) Metals And Hyperliquid RWAs
(43:31) Crypto Integration Into FinTech
(55:18) The State Of Compliance
(58:49) 2026 IPOs
(01:04:38) The Carvana Of Crypto
(01:09:220 Content Of The Week
(01:15:29) Claude Cowork
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

The Bull Case For DePIN, RWAs on Hyperliquid & The Onchain Endgame | Weekly Roundup

This week, we’re joined by John Zettler, Director of Product at Kraken and Sun Raghupathi, Co-founder of Veda, to discuss their collaboration to bring onchain vaults to Kraken! We explore the growth of onchain vaults, how vaults package DeFi lending and yield strategies, vault mechanics, risk management, business models, comparisons to past yield products, and implications for DeFi adoption and future TVL growth. Enjoy!
Resources
2026 Predictions Episode: <a href="https://youtu.be/yagd3CT2VQk?si=G1cFXBpODiWZ-pQR">https://youtu.be/yagd3CT2VQk?si=G1cFXBpODiWZ-pQR</a>
–
Follow John: https://x.com/JohnZettler
Follow Sun: https://x.com/sunandr_
Follow Jason: <a href="https://x.com/JasonYanowitz">https://x.com/JasonYanowitz</a>
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
–
Timestamps:
(02:45) What is a vault
(09:26) The Evolution of Vaults
(14:31) Vault Key Parties
(21:49) Vault Business Models
(29:14) Building Vaults with Coinbase and Morpho
(33:29) Vaults Today vs BlockFi &amp; Celsius
(37:42) Bringing Vaults to Kraken
(39:55) Determining Yield &amp; Adding More Vaults
(41:51) What made Yano Bullish on Vaults
(45:52) Behind the Scenes
(50:24) Vault Risks
(56:37) Morpho's Model vs Veda's Model
(57:59) Closing Comments on Vaults and DeFi TVL
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Why Kraken Is Betting Big on Onchain Vaults | John Zettler & Sun Raghupathi

This week, we discuss Claude and the ongoing AI acceleration, AI’s impact on VC and SaaS, and the latest draft of the CLARITY Bill. We also dig into BitGo’s upcoming IPO, Polygon’s latest acquisitions, the Farcaster Sale, Larry Fink’s WEF comments, and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire:https://x.com/theempirepod   
--
Coinbase crypto-backed loans, powered by Morpho, enable you to take out loans at competitive rates using crypto as collateral. Rates are typically 4% to 8%. Borrow up to $5M using BTC as collateral and up to $1M using ETH as collateral. Manage crypto-backed loans directly in the Coinbase app with ease. Learn more here: 
https://www.coinbase.com/onchain/borrow/get-started?utm_campaign=0126_defi-borrow_blockworks_empire&amp;marketId=0x9103c3b4e834476c9a62ea009ba2c884ee42e94e6e314a26f04d312434191836&amp;utm_source=empire 
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Intro
(02:55) Claude And The AI Acceleration
(11:53) Leveraging Expertise, Competing Models &amp; Company Structure
(21:02) AI’s Impact On VC And SaaS
(31:590 Ads (Coinbase)
(32:44) Unpacking The CLARITY Bill
(41:00) BitGo’s IPO
(53:53) Polygon Acquisitions
(01:00:47) Farcaster Sale &amp; Decentralized Social
(01:08:30) Larry Fink And Content Of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

AI Breaking Software Economics, CLARITY Bill, & Debating BitGo’s IPO | Weekly Roundup

This week, the Hivemind team discusses Bitcoin’s recent price action, macro and equity market influences, perp DEX activity, and their outlooks on Solana, Hyperliquid, Lighter, and PumpFun. They also cover privacy coins, equity perps, and market cycles. Enjoy!Thanks for tuning in!
–
Follow Ceteris: ⁠https://x.com/ceterispar1bus⁠
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/3xliquidated⁠
Follow Yan: <a href="https://x.com/YanLiberman">https://x.com/YanLiberman</a>
Follow Flip: https://x.com/trevor_flipper
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod⁠
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠
 
—-
TIMESTAMPS
(00:00) Introduction
(01:39) Market Outlook
(14:34) Saylor’s Buys &amp; Onchain Trends
(27:10) Robinhood’s Equity Perps
(29:44) Thoughts on Lighter
(42:43) Monero vs Zcash
(54:55) Market Cycles
—--
Disclaimer:  Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Bitcoin Volatility, Perp DEX Trends, and Crypto Market Cycles

In this episode, Chris Maurice, Co-founder &amp; CEO of Yellow Card, joins us to explore how compliant crypto rails are reshaping everyday money movement across Africa. We dig into stablecoins as practical financial tools, the regulatory groundwork that makes them usable, and what it takes to build a pan-African fintech that can withstand FX volatility, fragmented payment systems, and shifting policy environments.
--
Quadrillions brings together the voices defining the next era of finance. From institutional rails to stablecoins and privacy, the series dives into how traditional markets, crypto innovation, and regulatory frameworks are converging to bring the full force of capital markets onchain.
 
Join hosts Jason Yanowitz, Yuval Rooz, and Eric Saraniecki for deep dives with special guests Shaul Kfir, Don Wilson, Mike Belshe, Justin Peterson, Acting Chair Caroline Pham, Eli Ben-Sasson, and more.
 
Produced by Blockworks and Canton Network. For more information, check out https://quadrillionspod.com/
--
Follow Canton: <a href="https://x.com/CantonNetwork">https://x.com/CantonNetwork</a>
Follow Yellow Card: https://x.com/YellowCard_App
Follow Chris: https://x.com/chrismaurice
Follow Eric: https://x.com/wesarn_real
Follow Jason: <a href="https://x.com/JasonYanowitz">https://x.com/JasonYanowitz</a>
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(2:02) Crypto Adoption Worldwide
(6:24) What's Blocking Dollar Demand?
(9:28) Canton's Focus on Emerging Markets
(12:39) Infrastructure Challenges
(15:46) The Role of Stablecoins
(19:23) L1 Activity and Self-Custody Trends
(25:04) FX Challenges
(37:15) Regulations in Africa
(41:37) Emerging Markets in Crypto
--
Disclaimer: “Quadrillions” is a mini-series produced by Blockworks, and is sponsored by Canton Network. Nothing on this show is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. It’s for informational purposes only, and the views expressed by anyone on the show are solely their opinions, not financial advice or necessarily the views of Blockworks.
 
Our hosts, guests, and the Blockworks team may hold positions in companies, funds, or projects discussed, including those related to Canton Network.

Quadrillions: How to Win the World | Chris Maurice

This week, Lighter Founder &amp; CEO Vladimir Novakovski discusses Lighter’s competitive edge over Hyperliquid, why he chose to be an L2 on Ethereum, and the role of their ZK innovations. We also touch on equity perps, Lighter’s partnership with Robinhood, and why Vlad chose to work in crypto. Enjoy!
Follow Vlad: https://x.com/vnovakovski 
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz 
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod 
--
Timestamps
(00:00) Intro
(03:05) Why Vlad Chose Crypto &amp; a Perp DEX
(11:37) Competing as a Perp DEX
(18:00) Why Be an L2 on Ethereum?
(20:37) Unpacking Lighter’s Competitive Edge
(25:46) Lighter’s ZK Innovations
(32:33) Partnership with Robinhood
(38:06) Equity Perps and Advantage Over Hyperliquid
(44:11) Lighter Token &amp; Valuation
(51:56) What Are People Missing?
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.
Apple 🎙️: https://bit.ly/49KooP3  
Spotify 🎙️: https://bit.ly/3NoHu60 
YouTube 🎥: https://bit.ly/49XeCu6

Inside Lighter’s Plan to Overtake Hyperliquid | Vladimir Novakovski

This week, we discuss the rise of AI tools like Claude Code, and their impact across the industry. We also cover Rain’s growth, supply and demand dynamics in crypto, capital raising, and crypto and AI trends in 2026. Enjoy!
–
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
–
Timestamps (00:00) Introduction (02:15) Claude Code Changes the Game (13:00) Supply vs Demand and Where the Money Is (19:00) Rain’s Moat and Crypto Cards (32:00) Investment Criteria and Founder Qualities (38:00) Audience Question on Market Structure (01:04:08) Word of the day and Nikita Bier’s Beef with CT (01:08:30) Content of the Week
—--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Claude Code, Stablecoin Adoption, and 2026 Trends | Weekly Roundup

This week, Qiao Wang joins the show to discuss how AI is transforming what it means to be an investor in 2026. We deep dive into Claude Opus 4.5 and its breakout moment, why Qiao got into the Google trade, constructing a portfolio for 2026, where to allocate time in the age of AI and more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Qiao: https://x.com/QwQiao
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
This Empire episode is brought to you by VanEck.
Learn more about the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF (NODE): http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE
 
An investment in the Fund involves a substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. It is possible to lose your entire principal investment. The Fund may invest nearly all of its net assets in either Digital Transformation Companies and/or Digital Asset Instruments. The Fund does not invest in digital assets or commodities directly.
 
Digital asset instruments may be subject to risks associated with investing in digital asset exchange-traded products (“ETPs”), which include the historical extreme volatility of the digital asset and cryptocurrency market, as well as less regulation and thus fewer investor protections, as these ETPs are not investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) or commodity pools for the purposes of
the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”).
 
Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. Visit vaneck.com to read and consider the prospectus, containing the investment objective, risks, and fees of the fund, carefully before investing.
 
© Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation.
--
"Mantle Global Hackathon 2025 is live! Running from Oct 22 to Dec 31, Mantle invites builders to design the future of Real-World Assets (RWAs) on its modular L2 stack.
Key Highlights:
- $150,000 Prize Pool + Grants &amp; Incubation opportunities
 
- Access to Bybit's 7M+ verified users
 
- Judges from Bybit Ventures, Spartan, Animoca Brands
 
- 6 Tracks: RWA/RealFi, DeFi, AI, ZK, Infra, GameFi
Join the Hackathon: https://www.hackquest.io/vi/hackathons/Mantle-Global-Hackathon-2025"
--
Timestamps
(00:00) Intro
(02:33) Claude’s Opus 4.5 Breakout Moment
(08:40) How Does AI Impact Startups?
(13:10) Do Moats Still Exist?
(20:00) Getting Into The Google Trade
(23:38) Where To Allocate Time In 2026
(26:23) Ads (VanEck, Mantle)
(28:25) Using AI Models For Investing
(41:30) How Does AI Change Brand &amp; Distribution?
(44:49) Qiao’s Portfolio In 2026
(55:14) Health &amp; Longevity
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Claude Opus 4.5’s Breakout Moment & Investing in 2026 with Qiao Wang

We're back with our first weekly roundup of 2026! This week we discuss Lighter token launch, Walmart's crypto strategy with OnePay, Erebor's $350m raise, what to expect in 2026 &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
"Mantle Global Hackathon 2025 is live! Running from Oct 22 to Dec 31, Mantle invites builders to design the future of Real-World Assets (RWAs) on its modular L2 stack.
Key Highlights:
- $150,000 Prize Pool + Grants &amp; Incubation opportunities
 
- Access to Bybit's 7M+ verified users
 
- Judges from Bybit Ventures, Spartan, Animoca Brands
 
- 6 Tracks: RWA/RealFi, DeFi, AI, ZK, Infra, GameFi
Join the Hackathon: https://www.hackquest.io/vi/hackathons/Mantle-Global-Hackathon-2025"
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries.
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
--
Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi. 
 
Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. https://hub.uniswap.org/?utm_source=blockworks&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=ww_web_bw_awa_trading-api_20251117_podcast_clicks
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction 
(06:16) Lighter's Token Launch 
(13:36) Walmart's Crypto Strategy with OnePay
(19:09) Erebor Raises $350m At a $4b Valuation
(23:22) Ads (Mantle, Geodnet, Uniswap)
(26:05) The Clarity Act
(36:44) What To Expect In 2026
(43:57) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Lighter’s Token Launch, Erebor Raises $350M & Walmart's Crypto Strategy 

This week, the Hivemind team breaks down the current state of the markets and asks whether the start of 2026 will be bullish. We then dive into the ongoing token vs equity debate in crypto and explore the best way to structure ICOs. Enjoy!
--
Follow Ceteris: ⁠https://x.com/ceterispar1bus⁠ 
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/3xliquidated⁠ 
Follow Jose: https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo
Follow Yan: https://x.com/YanLiberman
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod⁠ 
 
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠ 
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠ 
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠ 
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/⁠
--
(00:00) Introduction
 (01:53) Will Q1 Be Bullish For Crypto?
 (18:56) Crypto’s Token vs Equity Problem
 (26:43) The MetaDAO Model
 (39:48) What Defines Success For ICOs?
 (01:01:31) Solana’s Block Building Dilemma
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Will 2026 Be Bullish & Crypto's Token vs Equity Problem

In this episode, we’re joined by Acting Chairman Pham to discuss the CFTC’s “back to basics” regulatory approach, cooperation with the SEC, and the CFTC’s 12-month Crypto Sprint initiative. We dive into tokenized collateral, stablecoin regulation, global market harmonization, and strategies to make the U.S. the crypto capital of the world.
--
Quadrillions brings together the voices defining the next era of finance. From institutional rails to stablecoins and privacy, the series dives into how traditional markets, crypto innovation, and regulatory frameworks are converging to bring the full force of capital markets onchain.
 
Join hosts Jason Yanowitz, Yuval Rooz, and Eric Saraniecki for deep dives with special guests Shaul Kfir, Don Wilson, Mike Belshe, Justin Peterson, Acting Chairman Caroline Pham, Eli Ben-Sasson, and more.
 
Produced by Blockworks and Canton Network. For more information, check out https://quadrillionspod.com/
--
Follow Canton: https://x.com/CantonNetwork
Follow Acting Chairman Pham: https://x.com/CFTCpham
Follow Yuval: https://x.com/YuvalRooz
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(1:02) Getting Back to the Basics
(7:37) CFTC vs SEC Responsibilities
(12:06) The CFTC's Crypto Sprint
(20:49) Tokenized Collateral
(24:53) The Crypto Capital of the World
--
Disclaimer: “Quadrillions” is a mini-series produced by Blockworks, and is sponsored by Canton Network. Nothing on this show is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. It’s for informational purposes only, and the views expressed by anyone on the show are solely their opinions, not financial advice or necessarily the views of Blockworks.
 
Our hosts, guests, and the Blockworks team may hold positions in companies, funds, or projects discussed, including those related to Canton Network.

Quadrillions: The Crypto Capital of the World | Acting Chairman Pham

Welcome to our final weekly roundup of the year! In this episode we reflect on our 2025 predictions before deep diving into our 2026 predictions. We discuss what to expect for stablecoins, prediction markets, the equity vs token debate &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Rob's 2025 predictions: https://x.com/HadickM/status/1876642292716482868
Santi's 2025 predictions: https://x.com/santiagoroel/status/1883931926047945064
Jason's 2025 predictions: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz/status/1876701413935325275
--
This Empire episode is brought to you by VanEck.
Learn more about the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF (NODE): http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE
 
An investment in the Fund involves a substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. It is possible to lose your entire principal investment. The Fund may invest nearly all of its net assets in either Digital Transformation Companies and/or Digital Asset Instruments. The Fund does not invest in digital assets or commodities directly.
 
Digital asset instruments may be subject to risks associated with investing in digital asset exchange-traded products (“ETPs”), which include the historical extreme volatility of the digital asset and cryptocurrency market, as well as less regulation and thus fewer investor protections, as these ETPs are not investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) or commodity pools for the purposes of
the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”).
 
Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. Visit vaneck.com to read and consider the prospectus, containing the investment objective, risks, and fees of the fund, carefully before investing.
 
© Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation.
--
Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi. 
 
Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. https://hub.uniswap.org/?utm_source=blockworks&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=ww_web_bw_awa_trading-api_20251117_podcast_clicks
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction 
(02:34) Rob’s 2025 Predictions
(10:15) Santi’s 2025 Predictions
(26:29) Jason’s 2025 Predictions
(29:31) Ads (VanEck, Uniswap)
(31:13) 2026 Predictions: Will ETH Be Higher or Lower?
(32:35) Stablecoins In 2026
(41:38) Return of The DeFi Mullet
(51:30) Markets In 2026
(57:09) Privacy &amp; Onchain Identity
(01:01:38) Prediction Markets Will 10x
(01:08:14) U.S Exchange Competition
(01:17:02) Equity &amp; Tokens Will Merge
(01:19:45) Regulation in 2026
(01:21:43) Final Predictions
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Our 2026 Predictions 

This week, Jill Gunter from Espresso joins the show to discuss the state of crypto today. We deep dive into how has crypto evolved, why privacy matters, predictions for 2026, will Espresso launch a token &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Jill: https://x.com/jillgun
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz 
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod 
 
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
This Empire episode is brought to you by VanEck.
Learn more about the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF (NODE): http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE
 
An investment in the Fund involves a substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. It is possible to lose your entire principal investment. The Fund may invest nearly all of its net assets in either Digital Transformation Companies and/or Digital Asset Instruments. The Fund does not invest in digital assets or commodities directly.
 
Digital asset instruments may be subject to risks associated with investing in digital asset exchange-traded products (“ETPs”), which include the historical extreme volatility of the digital asset and cryptocurrency market, as well as less regulation and thus fewer investor protections, as these ETPs are not investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) or commodity pools for the purposes of
the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”).
 
Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. Visit vaneck.com to read and consider the prospectus, containing the investment objective, risks, and fees of the fund, carefully before investing.
 
© Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation.
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries.
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
--
Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi.
 
Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. https://hub.uniswap.org/?utm_source=blockworks&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=ww_web_bw_awa_trading-api_20251117_podcast_clicks
--
Timestamps
(00:00) Introduction
(02:44) The State of Crypto Today
(10:21) How Has Crypto Evolved?
(19:18) Ads (VanEck, Geodnet, Uniswap)
(21:40) Why Privacy Matters
(35:55) Who Wins In Crypto Infra?
(45:56) Crypto's Identity Crisis
(52:52) Predictions For 2026
(55:49) When Will Espresso Launch A Token?
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

The State of Crypto, 2026 Predictions & Espresso's Token Launch | Jill Gunter

This week, we discuss whether 2025 marks crypto’s dot-com moment. We deep dive into how to allocate capital as crypto and fintech continue to merge, crypto’s token-vs-equity dilemma, Coinbase’s recent product releases, who wins the stablecoin race and more. Enjoy!

--
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
This Empire episode is brought to you by VanEck.
Learn more about the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF (NODE): http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE
 
An investment in the Fund involves a substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. It is possible to lose your entire principal investment. The Fund may invest nearly all of its net assets in either Digital Transformation Companies and/or Digital Asset Instruments. The Fund does not invest in digital assets or commodities directly.
 
Digital asset instruments may be subject to risks associated with investing in digital asset exchange-traded products (“ETPs”), which include the historical extreme volatility of the digital asset and cryptocurrency market, as well as less regulation and thus fewer investor protections, as these ETPs are not investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) or commodity pools for the purposes of
the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”).
 
Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. Visit vaneck.com to read and consider the prospectus, containing the investment objective, risks, and fees of the fund, carefully before investing.
 
© Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation.
--
Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi. 
 
Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. https://hub.uniswap.org/?utm_source=blockworks&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=ww_web_bw_awa_trading-api_20251117_podcast_clicks
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction 
(04:06) Is 2025 Crypto’s Dot Com Moment?
(13:12) Crypto’s Token vs Equity Dilemma
(28:30) Ads (VanEck, Uniswap)
(30:12) Coinbase’s Product Releases
(35:25) Who Wins The Stablecoin Race?
(46:58) Vaults
(56:50) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Is 2025 Crypto's Dot-com Moment? | Weekly Roundup

This week, Dougie DeLuca joins the Hivemind team to discuss his recent piece "Crypto Is Dead". We deep dive into the shift that is happening within crypto as we head into 2026, why is sentiment so bad, where to allocate in 2026, where crypto has found PMF and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Dougie: https://x.com/DougieDeLuca
Follow Jose: https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/3xliquidated⁠ 
Follow Yan: https://x.com/YanLiberman
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod⁠ 
 
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠ 
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠ 
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠ 
--
Crypto Is Dead: https://x.com/DougieDeLuca/status/2000957512862884100
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/⁠
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(0:56) Is Crypto Dead?
(12:20) Why Is Sentiment So Bad?
(28:52) Crypto’s Path Forward
(34:21) Where To Allocate In 2026?
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Crypto Is Dead with Dougie DeLuca

This week, Noah from Theia &amp; Smac from Compound discuss why crypto’s next chapter won’t be powered by hype alone. They explain how valuations, narratives, fund structures, and real cash-flow durability are reshaping the industry, and why investors must adapt to a world where fundamentals finally matter. Enjoy!
—
Follow Noah: https://x.com/tradernoah 
Follow Smac: https://x.com/0xsmac 
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz 
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel 
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod 

Compound Annual Meeting: https://x.com/mhdempsey/status/1999119478936785108?s=20 
—
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century. Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today: https://electriccoin.co/zashi/ 
--
"Mantle Global Hackathon 2025 is live! Running from Oct 22 to Dec 31, Mantle invites builders to design the future of Real-World Assets (RWAs) on its modular L2 stack.
Key Highlights:
- $150,000 Prize Pool + Grants &amp; Incubation opportunities

- Access to Bybit's 7M+ verified users

- Judges from Bybit Ventures, Spartan, Animoca Brands

- 6 Tracks: RWA/RealFi, DeFi, AI, ZK, Infra, GameFi
Join the Hackathon: https://www.hackquest.io/vi/hackathons/Mantle-Global-Hackathon-2025"
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries.
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
--
Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi.

Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. https://hub.uniswap.org/?utm_source=blockworks&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=ww_web_bw_awa_trading-api_20251117_podcast_clicks
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Intro
(01:24) How Theia &amp; Compound Are Positioned
(05:58) Thoughts On Valuation Debate
(10:50) Do Narratives &amp; Storytelling Drive Markets?
(22:24) Ads (Zcash)
(23:01) Tension Between Old &amp; New Investors
(25:27) Having A View On Public Markets
(28:53) Will Crypto Be The Fastest Horse Again?
(33:44) Who Outperforms: Majors or Apps?
(35:43) Ads (Zcash)
(36:20) Identifying Durable Vs Ephemeral Advantages
(40:49) State Of Crypto Liquid Funds
(45:51) Activist Investing In Crypto
(47:48) Ads (Mantle, Geodnet, Uniswap)
(50:41) Views On Prediction Markets
(53:55) Biggest Market Opportunities
(01:01:36) Water Supercycle?
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Fundamentals Are The New King of Crypto | Smac & Noah Goldberg

This week, we discuss Polymarket data accuracy, VC involvement in portfolio companies, Paradigm’s Tempo testnet launch, reflections on burnout in crypto, and Farcaster’s pivot. Enjoy!
–
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
—-
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century. Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today: https://electriccoin.co/zashi/
--
This Empire episode is brought to you by VanEck.
Learn more about the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF (NODE): http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE
An investment in the Fund involves a substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. It is possible to lose your entire principal investment. The Fund may invest nearly all of its net assets in either Digital Transformation Companies and/or Digital Asset Instruments. The Fund does not invest in digital assets or commodities directly.
Digital asset instruments may be subject to risks associated with investing in digital asset exchange-traded products (“ETPs”), which include the historical extreme volatility of the digital asset and cryptocurrency market, as well as less regulation and thus fewer investor protections, as these ETPs are not investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) or commodity pools for the purposes of
the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”).
Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. Visit vaneck.com to read and consider the prospectus, containing the investment objective, risks, and fees of the fund, carefully before investing.
© Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation.
--
Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi.
Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. https://hub.uniswap.org/?utm_source=blockworks&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=ww_web_bw_awa_trading-api_20251117_podcast_clicks
–
Timestamps:
(00:00) intro
(06:00) Polymarket Data
(09:12)  How Involved Should VCs Be?
(14:48) Ads (Zcash)
(15:25)  Tempo Testnet Goes Live
(28:48) Ads (Zcash)
(29:25)  Burnout Across Crypto
(49:05) Ads (VanEck, Uniswap)
(50:47)  Farcaster Pivots
(01:01:27) Content of the Week
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Tempo Testnet Goes Live, Burnout In Crypto, and Farcaster’s Pivot | Weekly Roundup

This week, CIO of Bitwise Matt Hougan joins the show to discuss fading the power of the four-year cycle, the accelerating wave of institutional adoption, and whether Strategy selling its Bitcoin is a real risk. Matt also weighs in on the Santi-Haseeb L1 debate, balancing token value with investment, and what he thinks drives the next phase of growth. Enjoy!
—
Follow Matt: https://x.com/Matt_Hougan 
CIO Memo: https://bit.ly/4pK4gmC 
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz 
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel 
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod 
—
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century. Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today: https://electriccoin.co/zashi/
—
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users. Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [<a href="https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana">https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana</a>] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates <a href="https://app.katana.network/krates">https://app.katana.network/krates</a> — This Empire episode is brought to you by VanEck. Learn more about the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF (NODE): <a href="http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE">http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE</a> An investment in the Fund involves substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. You may lose your entire principal investment. The Fund may invest nearly all of its net assets in Digital Transformation Companies and/or Digital Asset Instruments but does not invest in digital assets or commodities directly. Digital Asset Instruments may involve risks tied to investing in digital asset exchange-traded products (“ETPs”), including the historically extreme volatility of digital asset and cryptocurrency markets and reduced regulation and investor protections, as these ETPs are not registered investment companies under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) or commodity pools under the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”). Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. Visit <a href="http://vaneck.com/">vaneck.com</a> to review the prospectus, including the Fund’s investment objective, risks, and fees, before investing. © Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation. — GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [<a href="https://geodnet.com/">https://geodnet.com</a>] — Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi. Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. <a href="https://bit.ly/4pt0Fd0">https://bit.ly/4pt0Fd0</a>
—
Timestamps
00:00 Intro
03:28 2026 vs The Four Year Cycle
05:06 Bitcoin Covered Call Strategy
07:44 The Case Against The 4-Year Cycle
11:14 Ads (Zcash, Katana)
12:31 Will Strategy Sell Its Bitcoin?
16:36 Inside The Institutional Mind
24:24 How Advisors Think About Crypto
27:40 The Best Stories In Crypto
30:23 Ads (Zcash, Katana)
31:39 Risk-First Investing
33:01 L1 Debate: Haseeb vs Santi
36:19 Balancing Token Value &amp; Investment
40:16 Ads (VanEck, Uniswap)
41:58 Zcash &amp; The Privacy Narrative
44:29 The Future Of ICOs
46:55 The Token-Equity Convergence
48:19 Final Thoughts
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Institutional Flows Will Overpower the 4-Year Cycle | Matt Hougan

This week, Santi and Rob discuss market volatility, MicroStrategy’s financial health, and Ethereum’s valuation. They also dive into current macro conditions, recent Tether FUD, and prediction markets. Enjoy!
–
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
—-
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century. Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today: https://electriccoin.co/zashi/
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
This Empire episode is brought to you by VanEck.
Learn more about the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF (NODE): http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE
An investment in the Fund involves a substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. It is possible to lose your entire principal investment. The Fund may invest nearly all of its net assets in either Digital Transformation Companies and/or Digital Asset Instruments. The Fund does not invest in digital assets or commodities directly.
Digital asset instruments may be subject to risks associated with investing in digital asset exchange-traded products (“ETPs”), which include the historical extreme volatility of the digital asset and cryptocurrency market, as well as less regulation and thus fewer investor protections, as these ETPs are not investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) or commodity pools for the purposes of
the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”).
Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. Visit vaneck.com to read and consider the prospectus, containing the investment objective, risks, and fees of the fund, carefully before investing.
© Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation.
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries.
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
--
Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi.
Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. https://hub.uniswap.org/?utm_source=blockworks&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=ww_web_bw_awa_trading-api_20251117_podcast_clicks
–
[Timestamps]
(00:00) Intro
(04:40) The L1 Valuation Debate
(16:28) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(17:44) The Market's Lack of Liquidity
 (30:07) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(31:24)  Thoughts on Saylor &amp; MicroStrategy
(46:25) Ads (VanEck, Geodnet,Uniswap)
(48:47) Recent Tether FUD
(57:47 ) Thoughts on Prediction Markets
(01:09:18) Kraken Acquires xStocks
(01:12:04) Favorite Christmas Movies
 
—--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Ethereum’s Valuation, Saylor’s Next Move, and Prediction Markets | Weekly Roundup

This week, the Hivemind team breaks down the current state of markets as Bitcoin looks to stabalize around $90k. We deep dive into the path forward for Microstategy, is quantum actually a threat to Bitcoin, the rise of AI agents, prediciton markets &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Ceteris: ⁠https://x.com/ceterispar1bus⁠ 
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/3xliquidated⁠ 
Follow Simon: https://x.com/simononchain
Follow Yan: https://x.com/YanLiberman
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod⁠ 
 
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠ 
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠ 
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠ 
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/⁠
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(0:45) Have We Bottomed?
(7:27) Microstrategy
(11:37) Is Quantum A Threat To Bitcoin?
(22:28) AI Agents
(30:07) Hyperliquid Unlocks
(37:52) Prediction Markets
(48:03) Buying The Zcash Dip
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Have We Bottomed, Bitcoin's Quantum Threat & Hyperliquid Unlocks

In this episode, we discuss why privacy is critical for TradFi adoption, crypto’s privacy solutions today, and how privacy unlocks institutional adoption of crypto, ultimately bringing quadrillions onchain. 
--
Quadrillions brings together the voices defining the next era of finance. From institutional rails to stablecoins and privacy, the series dives into how traditional markets, crypto innovation, and regulatory frameworks are converging to bring the full force of capital markets onchain.
 
Join hosts Jason Yanowitz, Yuval Rooz, and Eric Saraniecki for deep dives with special guests Shaul Kfir, Don Wilson, Mike Belshe, Justin Peterson, Acting Chair Caroline Pham, Eli Ben-Sasson, and more.
 
Produced by Blockworks and Canton Network. For more information, check out https://quadrillionspod.com/
--
Follow Canton: https://x.com/CantonNetwork
Follow Eli: https://x.com/EliBenSasson
Follow: Eric: https://x.com/wesarn_real
Follow Shaul: https://x.com/ShaulKfir
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(3:26) Defining Privacy In Crypto
(7:11) Why Doesn't Privacy Exist Onchain Yet?
(11:18) The Demand For Privacy
(14:12) Is Privacy a Feature or a Product?
(19:50) Can Privacy Be Bolted On?
(23:06) zkRollups Are Not Zero Knowledge
(31:12) Balancing Privacy With Regulatory Compliance
(34:04) Starkware's Userbase
(38:21) Privacy at the Application Layer
(41:08) Privacy vs Anonymity
(43:56) Crypto's Next Big Moment
--
Disclaimer: “Quadrillions” is a mini-series produced by Blockworks, and is sponsored by Canton Network. Nothing on this show is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. It’s for informational purposes only, and the views expressed by anyone on the show are solely their opinions, not financial advice or necessarily the views of Blockworks.
 
Our hosts, guests, and the Blockworks team may hold positions in companies, funds, or projects discussed, including those related to Canton Network.

Quadrillions: Privacy or Perish | Eli Ben-Sasson, Shaul Kfir, & Eric Saraniecki

This week, Keone Hon joins the show to discuss the recent launch of Monad. We deep dive into Monad's ICO, launching on Coinbase, the state of airdrops in crypto today, do we need another L1, whether public vs corporate chains are competitors and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Keone: https://x.com/keoneHD
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century. Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today: https://electriccoin.co/zashi/
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
 
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
"Mantle Global Hackathon 2025 is live! Running from Oct 22 to Dec 31, Mantle invites builders to design the future of Real-World Assets (RWAs) on its modular L2 stack.
 
Key Highlights:
- $150,000 Prize Pool + Grants &amp; Incubation opportunities
 
- Access to Bybit's 7M+ verified users
 
- Judges from Bybit Ventures, Spartan, Animoca Brands
 
- 6 Tracks: RWA/RealFi, DeFi, AI, ZK, Infra, GameFi
Join the Hackathon: https://www.hackquest.io/vi/hackathons/Mantle-Global-Hackathon-2025"
--
Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi. 
 
Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. https://hub.uniswap.org/?utm_source=blockworks&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=ww_web_bw_awa_trading-api_20251117_podcast_clicks
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:35) Behind The Monad Launch
(06:42) Monad's Exchange Listing
(13:20) Ads (Zashi, Katana)
(14:37) Monad's Pre Deposit Strategy
(22:10) Monad’s Airdrop
(27:05) Ads (Zashi, Katana)
(28:21) Launching On Coinbase
(32:40) Launching Mainnet
(38:33) Ads (Mantle, Uniswap)
(40:35) Developing An App Ecosystem
(46:30) Why Do We Need Another L1?
(47:47) Public vs Corporate Chains
(52:36) What’s Next For Monad In 2026?
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Monad Founder: The Next Chapter For Monad | Keone Hon

This week, we're back to discuss the top stories of the week. We deep dive into Klarna's stablecoin launch, the state of crypto VC, Hyperliquid's launch of equity perps &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Referenced In The Show: 
 
Jeff Yass - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qU9N75Fe1yU
 
Part 1: My Life Is a Lie - https://www.yesigiveafig.com/p/part-1-my-life-is-a-lie?publication_id=1272022&amp;post_id=179492574&amp;isFreemail=false&amp;r=5205r&amp;triedRedirect=true 
 
Competition is for Losers with Peter Thiel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Fx5Q8xGU8k
--
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century. Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today: https://electriccoin.co/zashi/
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
 
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
This Empire episode is brought to you by VanEck.
Learn more about the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF (NODE): http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE
 
An investment in the Fund involves a substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. It is possible to lose your entire principal investment. The Fund may invest nearly all of its net assets in either Digital Transformation Companies and/or Digital Asset Instruments. The Fund does not invest in digital assets or commodities directly.
 
Digital asset instruments may be subject to risks associated with investing in digital asset exchange-traded products (“ETPs”), which include the historical extreme volatility of the digital asset and cryptocurrency market, as well as less regulation and thus fewer investor protections, as these ETPs are not investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) or commodity pools for the purposes of
the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”).
 
Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. Visit vaneck.com to read and consider the prospectus, containing the investment objective, risks, and fees of the fund, carefully before investing.
 
© Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation.
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. 
 
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
--
Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi. 
 
Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. https://hub.uniswap.org/?utm_source=blockworks&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=ww_web_bw_awa_trading-api_20251117_podcast_clicks
--
(00:00) Intro
(07:14) Klarna Launches KlarnaUSD
(17:25) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(41:12) The State of Crypto VC
(44:16) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(45:32) The Prediction Market Wars
(57:28) Ads (VanEck, Geodnet, Uniswap)
(59:50) Hyperliquid Launches Equity Perps
(01:07:21) Coinbase To Acquire Vector.fun
(01:18:00) Berachain &amp; Nova Digital’s $25 Million Refund Right
(01:26:41) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice.

Klarna Launches A Stablecoin, Hyperliquid Perps & The Prediction Market Wars | Weekly Roundup

This week, Raoul Pal joins the show to discuss the current state of markets. As crypto &amp; equities face their first significant sell off since the April lows, we deep dive into what's next for markets. Raoul discusses why he believes there's a wave of liquidity coming in 2026, how to trade crypto cycles, valuing crypto networks, has the DAT bubble burst, Raoul's AI thesis &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Raoul: https://x.com/RaoulGMI
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod
--
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century.
 
Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today: https://electriccoin.co/zashi/
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
 
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
This Empire episode is brought to you by VanEck. Learn more about the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF (NODE): http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE
 
An investment in the Fund involves a substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. It is possible to lose your entire principal investment. The Fund may invest nearly all of its net assets in either Digital Transformation Companies and/or Digital Asset Instruments. The Fund does not invest in digital assets or commodities directly.
 
Digital asset instruments may be subject to risks associated with investing in digital asset exchange-traded products (“ETPs”), which include the historical extreme volatility of the digital asset and cryptocurrency market, as well as less regulation and thus fewer investor protections, as these ETPs are not investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) or commodity pools for the purposes of the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”).
 
Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. Visit vaneck.com to read and consider the prospectus, containing the investment objective, risks, and fees of the fund, carefully before investing.
 
© Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation.
--
Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi. 
 
Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. https://hub.uniswap.org/?utm_source=blockworks&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=ww_web_bw_awa_trading-api_20251117_podcast_clicks
--
(00:00) Intro
(01:25) Where Are We In The Macro Cycle?
(10:11) How To Value Crypto Networks?
(20:58) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(22:14) The K-Shaped Economy
(25:31) Has The DAT Bubble Burst?
(28:24) Why Liquidity Drives Markets
(38:19) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(39:35) How To Trade Crypto Cycles
(49:57) Ads (VanEck, Uniswap)
(51:39) Raoul's AI Thesis
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

How to Trade Crypto Cycles with Raoul Pal

This week, Rob &amp; Santi are back to discuss the top stories of the week. We deep dive into the recent panic in markets, Santi's piece on crypto valuations, the state of crypto venture, Aave's app launch &amp; more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
Referenced In The Show: https://x.com/santiagoroel/status/1990430092997050753
--
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century.
Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today: https://electriccoin.co/zashi/
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
This Empire episode is brought to you by VanEck.
Learn more about the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF (NODE): http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE
 
An investment in the Fund involves a substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. It is possible to lose your entire principal investment. The Fund may invest nearly all of its net assets in either Digital Transformation Companies and/or Digital Asset Instruments. The Fund does not invest in digital assets or commodities directly.
 
Digital asset instruments may be subject to risks associated with investing in digital asset exchange-traded products (“ETPs”), which include the historical extreme volatility of the digital asset and cryptocurrency market, as well as less regulation and thus fewer investor protections, as these ETPs are not investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) or commodity pools for the purposes of the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”).
 
Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. Visit vaneck.com to read and consider the prospectus, containing the investment objective, risks, and fees of the fund, carefully before investing.
 
© Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation.
--
Uniswap’s Trading API offers plug-and-play access to deep onchain and off-chain liquidity, delivering enterprise-grade crypto trading without the complexity - from one of the most trusted teams in DeFi. 
 
Click to get started with seamless, scalable access to Uniswap’s powerful onchain trading infrastructure. https://hub.uniswap.org/?utm_source=blockworks&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=ww_web_bw_awa_trading-api_20251117_podcast_clicks
--
(00:00) Intro
(02:21) Why Your Coin Isn’t Pumping
(21:15) Ads (Zashi, Katana)
(22:32) Where Are We In The Cycle?
(27:29) The State of Crypto Venture
(35:54) Ads (Zashi, Katana)
(37:10) What Will Outperform In The Next 5 Years?
(42:34) Aave Launches Aave App
(50:35) Ads (VanEck, Uniswap)
(52:17) Monad’s ICO
(01:03:09) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Market Sell Off, State of Crypto VC & Why Your Coin Isn't Pumping | Weekly Roundup

This week, the Hivemind team breaks down the recent market price action as BTC struggles to regain $95k. We then deep dive into why is Zcash ripping, the 10/10 leverage hangover, the perps opportunity, crypto's onboarding problem &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Ceteris: ⁠https://x.com/ceterispar1bus⁠ 
Follow LTR: https://x.com/0xLTR
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/3xliquidated⁠ 
Follow Flip: ⁠https://x.com/trevor_flipper⁠ 
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod⁠ 
 
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠ 
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠ 
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠ 
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/⁠
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(1:12) State of The Market
(12:14) Why Is Zcash Ripping?
(17:22) The 10/10 Leverage Hangover
(18:25) MetaDAO
(24:06) Perp Aggregators
(34:36) Takeaways From Singapore
(40:29) Monad's ICO
(45:19) Crypto’s Onboarding Problem
(52:53) Pay Attention During Bear Markets
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Can Crypto Bounce, Monad's ICO & The Perp Opportunity

In this episode, we cover institutional crypto adoption, stablecoins’ interplay with treasuries and 24/7 repo financing on Canton, the risks associated with wrapped assets and stablecoin fragmentation, and 2026 expectations for broader, client-driven OTC and onchain activity.  
--
Quadrillions brings together the voices defining the next era of finance. From institutional rails to stablecoins and privacy, the series dives into how traditional markets, crypto innovation, and regulatory frameworks are converging to bring the full force of capital markets onchain.
 
Join hosts Jason Yanowitz, Yuval Rooz, and Eric Saraniecki for deep dives with special guests Shaul Kfir, Don Wilson, Mike Belshe, Justin Peterson, Acting Chair Caroline Pham, Eli Ben-Sasson, and more.
 
Produced by Blockworks and Canton Network. For more information, check out https://quadrillionspod.com/
--
Follow Canton: https://x.com/CantonNetwork
Follow Tradeweb: https://x.com/Tradeweb
Follow Mike: https://x.com/mikebelshe
Follow Eric: https://x.com/wesarn_real
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(1:38) Tradeweb's Origin Story
(3:58) The State of Institutional Crypto Adoption
(8:23) Where is the Most Growth Right Now?
(10:26) Consolidating Stablecoins
(15:23) Tradeweb's Crypto Strategy
(18:32) What Does Crypto Solve Today?
(23:37) The Next 100x Growth Opportunity
(27:56) Bringing RWAs Onchain
(31:25) The Role of Custodians
(35:03) Canton's Go-to-market Strategy
(38:31) Tokenized Equities
(44:02) The Need For Privacy
(49:23) Crypto Adoption Going Forward
--
Disclaimer: “Quadrillions” is a mini-series produced by Blockworks, and is sponsored by Canton Network. Nothing on this show is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. It’s for informational purposes only, and the views expressed by anyone on the show are solely their opinions, not financial advice or necessarily the views of Blockworks.
 
Our hosts, guests, and the Blockworks team may hold positions in companies, funds, or projects discussed, including those related to Canton Network.

Quadrillions: You’re Already Late | Mike Belshe, Justin Peterson & Eric Saraniecki

This week, Santi joined Jonah &amp; Avi on the 1000x podcast to discuss Bitcoin breaking $95k, why crypto valuations are struggling, how AI and traditional markets offer better value and clearer cash-flow stories, and why the next era of winners will be real applications, not infrastructure. Enjoy!
–
Go follow the new 1000x feed to keep up to date with all new episodes!
Spotify: https://bit.ly/4676Sob 
Apple: https://bit.ly/4etlBMd 
–
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Avi: https://x.com/AviFelman 
Follow Jonah: https://x.com/jvb_xyz 
Follow 1000x: https://x.com/1000xPod. 
Join the 1000x Telegram: https://t.me/+fz-2f0cwC6o0MWNh
--
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century.
Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today: https://electriccoin.co/zashi/
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.
Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"":
Transactions posted to the blockchain
Compatibility with TradFi rails
Integrated DeFi features
Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.
Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'.
--
Timestamps:
(00:00 Introduction 
(01:11) Crypto’s Valuation Problem
(04:41) Crypto vs the Stock Market
(07:55) Crypto’s Valuation Problem Cont.
(12:49) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(14:03) Is This Time Different?
(18:19) Valuations vs Active Users
(21:33) Future of Blockchain
(25:12) Bitcoin vs Crypto
(29:07) Crypto Needs Cash Flows
(32:24) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(33:38) Underwriting New Chains
(40:52) Western Union Thesis
(43:58) Equity vs Token Holders
(46:30) The Future of Blockchain Investments
(49:46) Missing the Forest for the Trees
(54:06) Ads (mantle)
(55:05) Still Bullish Bitcoin
(59:20) Institutional Interest in Crypto
(01:05:26) Final Thoughts
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Bitcoin Breaks $95k, Crypto’s Valuation Problem & The Path To Real Onchain Users

This week, Rob &amp; Santi are back to discuss the top stories of the week. We deep dive into the current state of markets, why Coinbase called off their BVNK acquisition, Uniswap's fee switch proposal, Monad's ICO, the bursting of the DAT bubble &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century.
Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today: https://electriccoin.co/zashi/
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. 
 
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
--
This Empire episode is brought to you by VanEck.
Learn more about the VanEck Onchain Economy ETF (NODE): http://vaneck.com/EmpireNODE
 
An investment in the Fund involves a substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. It is possible to lose your entire principal investment. The Fund may invest nearly all of its net assets in either Digital Transformation Companies and/or Digital Asset Instruments. The Fund does not invest in digital assets or commodities directly.
 
Digital asset instruments may be subject to risks associated with investing in digital asset exchange-traded products (“ETPs”), which include the historical extreme volatility of the digital asset and cryptocurrency market, as well as less regulation and thus fewer investor protections, as these ETPs are not investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) or commodity pools for the purposes of the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”).
 
Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. Visit vaneck.com to read and consider the prospectus, containing the investment objective, risks, and fees of the fund, carefully before investing.
© Van Eck Securities Corporation, Distributor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Eck Associates Corporation.
--
(00:00) Intro
(01:37) State of The Market
(06:48) Coinbase Calls Off Their $2B Acquisition of BVNK
(13:40) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(14:52) JPMorgan (JPMD) Launches On Base
(27:40) Uniswap's Fee Switch Proposal
(37:22) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(38:34) Monad's ICO
(55:40) Ads (Geodnet, VanEck)
(57:14) Bursting of The DAT Bubble
(01:07:36) What Happened With Hyperliquid &amp; Popcat?
(01:16:40) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

State of The Market, Monad's ICO & The Stablecoin Gold Rush | Weekly Roundup

This week Brandon Millman &amp; Donnie Dinch join the show to discuss the past, present &amp; future of Phantom. We deep dive into why did Brandon originally build Phantom, recent M&amp;A activity, building perps, how does Phantom generate revenue, will Phantom IPO &amp; more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Brandon: https://x.com/BChillman
Follow Donnie: https://x.com/donnie
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century.
Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today: https://electriccoin.co/zashi/
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
(00:00) Intro
(04:08) Why Did Brandon Start Phantom?
(12:05) Building For Crypto Users vs Normies
(20:57) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(22:11) Launching Phantom CASH
(27:26) How To Scale As a Startup
(35:42) Launching Perps
(47:12) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(48:26) How Does Phantom Generate Revenue?
(53:16) The Next Chapter of Phantom
(56:24) Phantom's Recent M&amp;A
(01:02:16) Ads (mantle)
(01:03:15) Will Phantom Launch a Chain?
(01:11:25) Prediction Markets
(01:15:31) Will Phantom IPO?
(01:21:01) Phantom Connect
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Phantom CEO: The Next Chapter For Phantom | Brandon Millman & Donnie Dinch

This week, Pranav Kanade joins the show to discuss the current state of markets. We deep dive into how Pranav finds alpha in crypto, Mamdani's win in NY, have we topped, are L1s overpriced, why the hot money is in AI &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Pranav: https://x.com/vaneckpk
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century.
Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today: https://electriccoin.co/zashi/
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
(00:00) Intro
 (02:49) The Opportunity For Tokenization
 (10:27) Mamdani Wins In NY
 (27:35) Finding Alpha In Crypto
 (32:05) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
 (33:17) Are L1s Overpriced?
 (36:18) Can People Actually Outperform BTC?
 (45:32) Have We Topped?
 (49:47) The Hot Money Is In AI
 (59:08) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
 (01:00:21) Can Crypto Ever Get To 100m+ Active Users?
 (01:12:42) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Finding Alpha In Crypto, Mamdani Wins & The AI Gold Rush | Weekly Roundup

In this kickoff episode, we draw the big picture of how TradFi is a multiplier for crypto, the barriers to TradFi adoption, and how crypto can overcome - or is already overcoming - those barriers. This is the path to quadrillions moving onchain.
--
Quadrillions brings together the voices defining the next era of finance. From institutional rails to stablecoins and privacy, the series dives into how traditional markets, crypto innovation, and regulatory frameworks are converging to bring the full force of capital markets onchain.
 
Join hosts Jason Yanowitz, Yuval Rooz, and Eric Saraniecki for deep dives with special guests Shaul Kfir, Don Wilson, Mike Belshe, Justin Peterson, Acting Chair Caroline Pham, Eli Ben-Sasson, and more.
 
Produced by Blockworks and Canton Network. For more information, check out https://quadrillionspod.com/
--
Follow Canton: https://x.com/CantonNetwork
Follow Don: https://x.com/drwconvexity
Follow Yuval: https://x.com/YuvalRooz
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(2:57) DRW's Origin Story
(9:32) Digital Asset's Thesis
(12:36) TradFi's Early Relationship With Crypto
(15:32) Deciding to Build Canton
(21:03) The Importance of Onchain Privacy
(23:42) Canton's Approach to Privacy
(28:28) Deciding When to Launch Canton
(36:23) Canton's June 2025 Fundraise
(39:59) The Scale of Tokenization
(50:35) Canton's Progress Thus Far
(54:54) Will AI and Crypto Converge?
(58:10) Are Circuit Breakers a Good Idea?
(1:02:48) Bringing Quadrillions Onchain
--
Disclaimer: “Quadrillions” is a mini-series produced by Blockworks, and is sponsored by Canton Network. Nothing on this show is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. It’s for informational purposes only, and the views expressed by anyone on the show are solely their opinions, not financial advice or necessarily the views of Blockworks.
 
Our hosts, guests, and the Blockworks team may hold positions in companies, funds, or projects discussed, including those related to Canton Network.

Quadrillions: Unlocking Quadrillions | Don Wilson & Yuval Rooz 

This week, Kain Warwick joins the show to discuss building Infinex and the march towards TGE. We deep dive into Kain's experience building in crypto, the next stage for Infinex, taking down CEXs, running a startup, dealing with drug addiction &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Kain: https://x.com/kaiynne
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
Zcash is encrypted Bitcoin. Your digital bill of rights securing your freedom for the 21st century.
 
Buy, store and spend ZEC privately using Zashi Wallet download today:
https://electriccoin.co/zashi/
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. 
 
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
--
(00:00) Intro
(05:36) Investing vs Building In Crypto
(13:11) The Opportunity For Prediction Markets
(17:51) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(18:48) What's Next For Infinex?
(21:39) Taking Down Centralized Exchanges
(30:52) Why Infinex Is Launching A Token
(38:38) Ads (Zcash, Katana)
(39:50) The Problem with Airdrops
(52:10) Most Influential Accounts on CT
(56:42) Ads (Goednet)
(57:27) Surviving in Crypto
(01:00:50) Dealing with Drug Addiction
(01:07:10) Running A Startup
(01:08:57) Where Are We in The Cycle?
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

War Stories From a Crypto Founder | Kain Warwick

This week, we discuss why Blockworks decided to shut down its news room. We then dive into why 2025 marks the start of a new chapter for the crypto industry, why we're still in a bull market, MegaETH's ICO, recent IPOs, M&amp;A and more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults. 
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.
 
Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"":
- Transactions posted to the blockchain
- Compatibility with TradFi rails
- Integrated DeFi features
 
Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.
Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'.
--
(00:00) Introduction
(01:20) Why Blockworks Closed The News Division
(13:27) Blockdaemon Ad
(14:04) Katana Ad
(14:52) The Next Chapter For Blockworks
(20:48) It’s Still A Bull Market
(25:12) Securitize Plans To Go Public At a $1.25B Valuation
(31:16) Blockdaemon Ad
(31:53) Katana Ad
(32:39) Western Union Announces USDPT
(51:25) Mantle Ad
(52:22) Mastercard Looks To Acquire Zerohash
(01:00:03) Will Stripe's Tempo Be a Success? 
(01:06:17) The MegaETH ICO
(01:09:44) Content Of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Crypto’s in a 20-Year Secular Bull Market | Weekly Roundup

This week, the Hivemind team breaks down the current state of the market as crypto's recovers from it's post October leverage unwind. We deep dive into what's outperforming, analogies to the dot com bubble vs today, Zcash's outperformance, max pain for altcoins &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis.
 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire⁠ 
--
Follow Ceteris: ⁠https://x.com/ceterispar1bus⁠ 
Follow Duncan: https://x.com/FloodCapital
Follow Yan: https://x.com/YanLiberman
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/3xliquidated⁠ 
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod⁠ 
 
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠ 
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠ 
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠ 
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/⁠
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(0:49) State of The Market
(9:33) The Dot Com Bubble vs Today
(13:51) Hyperliquid's Resurgence
(21:00) The MegaETH ICO
(25:24) Altcoins
(35:15) Zcash
(43:30) Pump Fun
(48:34) Galaxy's $1.15B Senior Notes Offering
(52:08) ETHZilla’s Share Buyback
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Crypto's Leverage Hangover, Hyperliquid's Resurgance & What's Next for Markets? 

This week, Jonah &amp; Avi from the 1000x podcast join Jason live in the Blockworks studio to discuss whether the crypto cycle is truly over, OGs selling vs new whales entering, and how we manage our portfolios. We also dive into Robinhood’s long-term potential, our favorite crypto projects, finding edge in prediction markets and much more. Enjoy!
--
Go follow the new 1000x feed to keep up to date with all new episodes!
Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4676Sob⁠ 
Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/4etlBMd⁠ 
--
Follow Jason: ⁠https://x.com/JasonYanowitz⁠ 
Follow Avi: ⁠https://x.com/AviFelman⁠ 
Follow Jonah: ⁠https://x.com/jvb_xyz⁠ 
Follow 1000x: ⁠https://x.com/1000xPod⁠ 
Join the 1000x Telegram: ⁠https://t.me/+fz-2f0cwC6o0MWNh⁠
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults.
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
(00:00) Introduction
(02:34) Is the Cycle Over?
(07:57) Crypto Disrupting TradFi Rails
(09:570 Ads (Blockdaemon, Katana)
(11:22) OGs Selling
(14:33) Easiest Trade in Crypto?
(16:34) Crypto PTSD &amp; Profit-Taking Psychology
(22:40) Portfolio Management
(29:19) Ads (Blockdaemon, Katana)
(30:43) Most Attractive Crypto Bets
(33:47) Prediction Markets &amp; Gambling
(38:17) Crypto Wash Trading 
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Is the Cycle Over, Portfolio Psychology, & Prediction Market Alpha

This week, we break down Coinbase’s $375 million acquisition of Echo and debate whether it was a good deal or not. We also dive into other top stories, including FalconX’s acquisition of 21Shares, Tempo’s $500 million raise, the latest developments in prediction markets, and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis.
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Referenced In The Show: 
 
State of Crypto 2025: https://a16zcrypto.com/posts/article/state-of-crypto-report-2025/
 
https://www.ribbitcap.com/knowledge
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults. 
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
peaq, the Machine Economy Computer, proudly sponsors the Empire podcast. 
 
peaq is home to 60+ apps across 20+ industries and millions of devices, machines, and onchain robots. 
 
It powers the world’s first tokenized robo-farm, launching soon in Hong Kong, and has launched the Machine Economy Free Zone in Dubai as a Web3 x Robotics x AI innovation hub.
 
For more about peaq, check out www.peaq.xyz
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. 
 
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
 
--
Timestamps:
 
(00:00) Introduction
(05:11) Coinbase Acquires Echo For $375m
(24:09) FalconX Acquires 21Shares
(27:25) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(28:35) Takeaways From The Fed Payments Conference
(35:30) The Market Structure Bill
(41:46) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(42:57) Tempo Raises $500m at a $5b Valuation
(49:01) Are Banks In Trouble?
(53:34) Ads (Geodnet)
(54:22) Prediction Markets
(01:02:51) It’s CZ’s World, We’re Just Living In It
(01:06:22) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Was Coinbase's Echo Acquisition a Good Deal? | Weekly Roundup

This week, we’re joined by Coinbase’s Chief Business Officer, Shan Aggarwal, to discuss their acquisition of Echo. We dive into Coinbase’s strategy to bring capital markets onchain, Echo’s role in compliant onchain fundraising, integration of acquired teams, tokenized equities, prediction markets, and Coinbase’s broader goal of becoming an all-encompassing financial platform. Enjoy!
–
Follow Shan: https://x.com/ShanAggarwal
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis.
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults.
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
peaq, the Machine Economy Computer, proudly sponsors the Empire podcast.
peaq is home to 60+ apps across 20+ industries and millions of devices, machines, and onchain robots.
It powers the world’s first tokenized robo-farm, launching soon in Hong Kong, and has launched the Machine Economy Free Zone in Dubai as a Web3 x Robotics x AI innovation hub.
For more about peaq, check out www.peaq.xyz
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.
 
Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"":
- Transactions posted to the blockchain
- Compatibility with TradFi rails
- Integrated DeFi features
 
Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.
Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'.
--
Timestamps:
 (00:00) Introduction
 (01:18) Shan's Background
 (05:42) Acquiring Echo
 (15:49) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
 (17:01) Coinbase's End Goal
 (21:19) Coinbase Listings
 (25:02) Coinbase Ventures
 (29:30) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
 (30:42) Advice for Founders
 (33:08) The Acquisition Process
 (41:27) Ads (Katana, Mantle)
 (43:04) Thoughts on Predictions Markets
 (57:56) Do Cycles Still Exist?
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Inside Coinbase’s $375m Acquisition of Echo | Shan Aggarwal

This week we discuss the fallout after crypto's largest ever liquidation event. We deep dive into the problem with crypto's market structure, has the DAT bubble burst, Binance's listing process, takeaways from DAS &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis.
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults. 
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
peaq, the Machine Economy Computer, proudly sponsors the Empire podcast. 
 
peaq is home to 60+ apps across 20+ industries and millions of devices, machines, and onchain robots. 
 
It powers the world’s first tokenized robo-farm, launching soon in Hong Kong, and has launched the Machine Economy Free Zone in Dubai as a Web3 x Robotics x AI innovation hub.
 
For more about peaq, check out www.peaq.xyz
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users. 
 
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
(00:00) Introduction
(01:17) DAS Takeaways
(05:36) Crypto’s Largest Liquidation Ever
(13:50) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(15:00) Perps, Crypto Liquidity &amp; Market Structure
(27:28) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(28:39) Binance’s Listing Process
(43:56) Ads (Katana)
(44:42) The DAT Bubble Has Burst
(57:13) Has This Cycle Peaked?
(01:05:33) Deals of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

DAS Takeaways, Crypto’s Largest Liquidation Ever & Have We Peaked? | Weekly Roundup

This week, the Hivemind team breaks down Friday’s insane crypto crash, the auto-deleveraging across exchanges, USDe’s sudden depeg, and the biggest post-crash winners and losers.
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from Katherine Ross and David Canellis.
 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: <a href="https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire">https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire</a> 
--
Follow Ceteris: <a href="https://x.com/ceterispar1bus">https://x.com/ceterispar1bus</a> 
Follow Jose: <a href="https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo">https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo</a> 
Follow Jason: <a href="https://x.com/3xliquidated">https://x.com/3xliquidated</a> 
Follow Flip: <a href="https://x.com/trevor_flipper">https://x.com/trevor_flipper</a> 
Follow Empire: <a href="https://x.com/theempirepod">https://x.com/theempirepod</a> 
 
Subscribe on YouTube: <a href="https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx">https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx</a> 
Subscribe on Apple: <a href="https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3">https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3</a> 
Subscribe on Spotify: <a href="https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH">https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH</a> 
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: <a href="https://blockworks.co/newsletter/">https://blockworks.co/newsletter/</a> 
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(1:42) Friday’s Insane Liquidations
(16:45) Auto-Deleveraging
(26:50) Ethena &amp; USDe Post-Mortem
(36:41) Post-Crash Winners &amp; Losers
(54:40) Still Bullish?
(58:26) Exchange Tickers &amp; Listings
(1:02:15) Impact of EVM Chains
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Record Liquidations, Auto-Deleveraging, & Biggest Post-Crash Winners & Losers

This week, Tarek Mansour Co-founder &amp; CEO of Kalshi joins the show to discuss the next chapter for one of the fastest growing start ups in the U.S. We deep dive into the Kalshi origin story, how media and markets are evolving, the opportunity for prediction markets, advice for founders and more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Tarek: https://x.com/mansourtarek_
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis.
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Crypto’s premiere institutional conference returns to London in October 2025. Use code EMPIRE200 for £200 off at checkout: https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-2025-london
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults. 
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
peaq, the Machine Economy Computer, proudly sponsors the Empire podcast. 
 
peaq is home to 60+ apps across 20+ industries and millions of devices, machines, and onchain robots. 
 
It powers the world’s first tokenized robo-farm, launching soon in Hong Kong, and has launched the Machine Economy Free Zone in Dubai as a Web3 x Robotics x AI innovation hub.
 
For more about peaq, check out www.peaq.xyz
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users. 
 
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.
 
Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"":
 - Transactions posted to the blockchain
 - Compatibility with TradFi rails
 - Integrated DeFi features
 
Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.
 
Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'.
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:28) The Kalshi Origin Story
(19:29) Raising Money From Sequoia
(21:46) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(22:58) Why The Election Was Kalshi's Breakthrough Moment
(33:37) Becoming The Fastest Growing Start Up
(37:40) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(38:52) Why Prediction Markets Are The Superior Model
(43:40) Integrating With Crypto
(50:20) Ads (Katana, Mantle)
(51:57) Partnering With Robinhood
(54:39) The Future of Prediction Markets &amp; Media
(01:00:11) The Perps Opportunity
(01:03:19) Competing With Polymarket
(01:09:40) Advice For Founders
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Kalshi CEO’s Bold Vision For The Future of Markets | Tarek Mansour

In this bonus live interview, Doug Colkitt joins the stream to unpack the crypto market's most severe wave of liquidations on record. We'll get into what fueled the crash, how auto-deleveraging works, and what it means for the rest of the cycle. 
 
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod
Follow Doug: https://x.com/0xdoug
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis.
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts&amp; 
 
--
 
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

LIVE | Market Crash: What Happened and What’s Next

This week we discuss Polymarket's $2B deal with ICE and how it impacts the future of prediction markets. We then deep dive into the stablecoin duopoly, advice for founders, is it BNB season, crypto's next breakout consumer app &amp; more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis.
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Crypto’s premiere institutional conference returns to London in October 2025. Use code EMPIRE200 for £200 off at checkout: https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-2025-london
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults. 
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
peaq, the Machine Economy Computer, proudly sponsors the Empire podcast. 
 
peaq is home to 60+ apps across 20+ industries and millions of devices, machines, and onchain robots. 
 
It powers the world’s first tokenized robo-farm, launching soon in Hong Kong, and has launched the Machine Economy Free Zone in Dubai as a Web3 x Robotics x AI innovation hub.
 
For more about peaq, check out www.peaq.xyz
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users. 
 
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. 
 
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Intro
(04:04) ICE Invests $2b In Polymarket
(14:32) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(15:43) Advice For Founders
(22:50) How Does Polymarket’s $2b Raise Impact Kalshi?
(27:53) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(29:04) The Stablecoin Duopoly Is Ending
(44:16) Ad (Katana Geodnet)
(45:42) Is It BNB Season?
(55:06) Privacy Coins
(57:13) Finding The Next Breakout Consumer App
(01:02:25) The Government Shutdown
(01:04:31) Content of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Polymarket's $2B Deal with ICE Changes Everything | Weekly Roundup

This week Christian Angermayer joins the show to discuss the future of crypto, AI &amp; psychedelics. We deep dive into Christian's past during the European debt crisis, why AI &amp; robotics will completely reshape the labor force, Christian's 5 key investment themes, the controversial enhanced games &amp; more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Christian: https://x.com/C_Angermayer
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis.
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Crypto’s premiere institutional conference returns to London in October 2025. Use code EMPIRE200 for £200 off at checkout: https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-2025-london
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults. 
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
peaq, the Machine Economy Computer, proudly sponsors the Empire podcast. 
 
peaq is home to 60+ apps across 20+ industries and millions of devices, machines, and onchain robots. 
 
It powers the world’s first tokenized robo-farm, launching soon in Hong Kong, and has launched the Machine Economy Free Zone in Dubai as a Web3 x Robotics x AI innovation hub.
 
For more about peaq, check out www.peaq.xyz
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users. 
 
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.
 
Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"":
 - Transactions posted to the blockchain
 - Compatibility with TradFi rails
 - Integrated DeFi features
 
Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.
 
Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'.
--
(00:00) Intro
(03:08) Christian's Origin Story
(07:10) The European Sovereign Debt Crisis
(12:15) Why The U.S Will Continue To Dominate
(20:54) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(22:06) Christian's AI &amp; Robotics Thesis
(39:36) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(40:48) Why Christian Is All In On Psychedelics
(58:00) Ads (Katana, Mantle)
(59:37) Christian's 5 Key Investing Themes
(01:15:19) Why Life Expectancy Will Increase
(01:18:48) The Enhanced Games
(01:33:55) Building Friendships &amp; Partnerships
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Why This Billionaire is All In on Crypto, AI & Psychedelics | Christian Angermayer

This week Mike Dudas joins the show to discuss why he thinks this cycle is still just getting started. We deep dive into Mike's thesis when it comes to investing in crypto, his biggest winners this cycle, Flying Tulip's new model for raising capital, stablecoins, NFTs &amp; more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Mike: https://x.com/mdudas
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis.
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Crypto’s premiere institutional conference returns to London in October 2025. Use code EMPIRE200 for £200 off at checkout: https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-2025-london
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults. 
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
peaq, the Machine Economy Computer, proudly sponsors the Empire podcast. 
 
peaq is home to 60+ apps across 20+ industries and millions of devices, machines, and onchain robots. 
 
It powers the world’s first tokenized robo-farm, launching soon in Hong Kong, and has launched the Machine Economy Free Zone in Dubai as a Web3 x Robotics x AI innovation hub.
 
For more about peaq, check out www.peaq.xyz
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Intro
(03:39) 6MV's Investment Thesis
(07:15) Pump Fun 
(15:18) Finding Big Winners This Cycle
(23:27) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(24:36) Why We Haven’t Topped
(29:03) How Will Crypto Returns Look Over The Next 5 Years?
(36:02) Prediction Markets
(39:23) What Did Solana Get Wrong?
(45:50) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(46:58) Are Crypto TGEs Broken?
(50:30) Flying Tulip Raises $200m: A New Vehicle For Fundraising?
(57:46) Does Every Project Need A Token?
(01:00:05) Why Mike Is Still Bullish NFTs
(01:02:47) Stablecoins
(01:06:23) Content Of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Mike Dudas on Uptober and the Continued Bull Market

This week, the Hivemind team discusses their current market outlook as crypto starts to recover after a large leverage flush last week. We deep dive into why are SOL DAT volumes so low, the Plasma token launch, Tether's $500B valuation, the perp DEX wars &amp; more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Ceteris: ⁠https://x.com/ceterispar1bus⁠
Follow Duncan: https://x.com/FloodCapital
Follow Yan: ⁠https://x.com/YanLiberman⁠
Follow Jose: ⁠https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo⁠
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod⁠
--
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠
 
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/⁠
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:25) State Of The Market
(07:42) Why Are SOL DAT Volumes So Low?
(12:24) Tether Raising $20B At A $500B Valuation
(19:46) Stablecoin Chains
(24:42) Flying Tulip's $200m Seed Round
(28:20) What Is DoubleZero?
(36:46) The Perp DEX Wars
(40:37) Hyperliquid
(52:16) Tokenization
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: State of The Market, Hyperliquid, Plasma & Tether's $500B Valuation

This week Jordi Alexander joins the show live from the Origin Summit, hosted by Story and Blockworks alongside Forward Guidance host Felix Jauvin. We deep dive into where are we in the cycle, is DAT season over, finding opportunity as an investor &amp; more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Jordi: https://x.com/gametheorizing
Follow Felix: https://x.com/fejau_inc
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis. 
 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(1:33) Where Are We In The Cycle?
(4:40) Perp DEXs
(8:49) What To Focus On As An Investor
(11:06) Is DAT Season Over?
(16:41) Final Thoughts
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Crypto In 2025, Is DAT Season Over & Market Outlook With Jordi Alexander

This week Mike Novogratz joins the show to reflect on his path from a successful trading career to building and running Galaxy. We deep dive into the state of markets, what defines the most successful macro traders, Galaxy's AI data center opportunity, running a public company &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Mike: https://x.com/novogratz
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis. 
 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults. 
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
peaq, the Machine Economy Computer, proudly sponsors the Empire podcast. 
 
peaq is home to 60+ apps across 20+ industries and millions of devices, machines, and onchain robots. 
 
It powers the world’s first tokenized robo-farm, launching soon in Hong Kong, and has launched the Machine Economy Free Zone in Dubai as a Web3 x Robotics x AI innovation hub.
 
For more about peaq, check out www.peaq.xyz
--
Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.
 
Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"":
 - Transactions posted to the blockchain
 - Compatibility with TradFi rails
 - Integrated DeFi features
 
Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.
 
Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'.
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. 
 
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(06:32) Mike's Outlook For Markets in 2025
(14:53) Are Markets Frothy, AI Capex &amp; The Minsky Moment
(24:26) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(25:36) What Will The Next Four Years For Crypto Look Like?
(30:44) What Makes The Most Successful Macro Traders?
(40:25) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(41:35) Hyperliquid
(44:19) The AI Data Center Buildout
(54:34) Ads (Mantle, Geodnet)
(55:59) Galaxy's Crypto Business
(59:06) Tokenizing Galaxy's Stock
(01:03:14) Running A Public Company &amp; The IPO Window
(01:07:03) Final Thoughts
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

The Art of Trading and Galaxy’s Next Chapter | Mike Novogratz

This week we're back to discuss the top stories of the week. We deep dive into the state of markets, Tether looking to raise $20B at a $500B valuation, Aster vs Hyperliquid, crypto IPOs in 2025-26 &amp; more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis.
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Ansem's outlook on markets: https://x.com/blknoiz06/status/1970107553079079341
--
Crypto’s premiere institutional conference returns to London in October 2025. Use code EMPIRE100 for £100 off at checkout: https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-2025-london
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults. 
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
peaq, the Machine Economy Computer, proudly sponsors the Empire podcast. 
 
peaq is home to 60+ apps across 20+ industries and millions of devices, machines, and onchain robots. 
 
It powers the world’s first tokenized robo-farm, launching soon in Hong Kong, and has launched the Machine Economy Free Zone in Dubai as a Web3 x Robotics x AI innovation hub.
 
For more about peaq, check out www.peaq.xyz
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:32) Are Markets A Little Too Frothy?
(06:43) The Stablecoin Thesis
(10:43) Takeaways From The Origin Summit
(13:53) Ansem’s Outlook On Markets
(22:49) Tether Raising $20B at $500B Valuation
(26:26) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(27:26) Aster vs Hyperliquid
(39:23) BitGo Files Their S-1
(50:28) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(51:36) Crypto IPOs In 2026
(55:02) Cloudflare Issuing A Stablecoin
(59:06) Zerohash Raises $100M At $1B Valuation
(01:01:48) Content Of The Week
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Have We Topped, Aster vs Hyperliquid & Tether's $500B Valuation | Weekly Roundup

This week Dan Morehead joins the show to discuss the current state of markets &amp; what's next throughout 2025 into 2026. We deep dive into how Dan built conviction in crypto as an asset class back in 2013, does the four year cycle still exist, crypto treasury vehicles, Dan's Solana thesis &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Dan: https://x.com/dan_pantera
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis. 
 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults. 
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
Welcome to Get Real — Web3’s first-ever campaign rewarding you for creating real-world value. Connect your devices to real-world apps on peaq and earn rewards for: 
 
Measuring noise pollution 
Providing compute 
Mapping the word And more 
 
Total prize pool: 5% of $PEAQ’s initial supply. Get Real is relaunching soon — follow peaq on X and get ready.
--
Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.
 
Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"":
 - Transactions posted to the blockchain
 - Compatibility with TradFi rails
 - Integrated DeFi features
 
Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.
 
Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'.
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. 
 
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:44) Buying Bitcoin In The Early Days
(07:11) Dan's Macro Outlook In 2025
(17:14) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(18:44) Does The Four Year Cycle Still Exist?
(27:39) Phase II of The Bull Market
(29:49) The Crypto IPO Window Is Open
(32:44) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(34:13) Crypto Treasury Vehicles
(40:30) The Solana Thesis: Why Pantera Owns $1bn+ Solana
(42:45) Are Institutions Still Underallocated To Crypto?
(46:33) Ads (Manttle, Goednet)
(47:59) Launching Crypto's Longest Running Fund
(55:07) Advice For Founders
(57:50) Crypto's Biggest Opportunity In The Next 5 Years
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Phase II of the Bull Market | Dan Morehead

We're back to discuss the top stories of the week. We deep dive into Pump Fun &amp; the future of media, why there is so much uncertainty despite massive positive tailwinds for crypto, Plasma's success story, is Base launching a token &amp; more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis.
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults. 
 
Programmatically access leading Ethereum &amp; Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!
--
Welcome to Get Real — Web3’s first-ever campaign rewarding you for creating real-world value. Connect your devices to real-world apps on peaq and earn rewards for: 
 
Measuring noise pollution 
Providing compute 
Mapping the word And more 
 
Total prize pool: 5% of $PEAQ’s initial supply. Get Real is relaunching soon — follow peaq on X and get ready.
--
Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.
 
Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"":
 - Transactions posted to the blockchain
 - Compatibility with TradFi rails
 - Integrated DeFi features
 
Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.
 
Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'.
--
Is your treasury losing value to inflation? Learn how to make digital assets like ETH and SOL productive with uncorrelated, protocol-driven staking rewards. A new report from Liquid Collective and EigenCloud outlines a practical guide for CFOs to integrate institutional-grade staking and restaking.
 
Read The Productive Treasury Report: https://liquidcollective.io/corporate-treasury-staking/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:15) Pump Fun, Livestreaming &amp; The Future Of Media
(14:48) Stablecoins
(16:06) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(17:34) We’re Still In A Bull Market, It’s Still Not The One You Wanted
(26:01) Why Has Plasma Been So Successful?
(36:19) How To Develop A Successful Ecosystem
(45:52) Ads (Blockdaemon, Peaq)
(47:20) More DATs &amp; ETFs Are Coming
(57:40) CFTC Updates
(01:00:30) Ad (Mantle, Eigen Layer) 
(01:02:04) Is Base Launching A Token?
(01:14:54) Content Of The Week
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

We're Still In A Bull Market | Weekly Roundup

This week, the Hivemind team discusses the state of crypto markets after the Fed just lowered interest rates by 25bps. We deep dive into what will outperform going forward, the rise of SOL DATs, is it still time to be bullish, Pump Fun &amp; more. Enjoy! -- Follow Ceteris: <a href="https://x.com/ceterispar1bus">https://x.com/ceterispar1bus</a> Follow Jason: <a href="https://x.com/3xliquidated">https://x.com/3xliquidated</a> Follow Yan: <a href="https://x.com/YanLiberman">https://x.com/YanLiberman</a> Follow Jose: <a href="https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo">https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo</a> Follow Empire: <a href="https://x.com/theempirepod">https://x.com/theempirepod</a> -- Subscribe on YouTube: <a href="https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx">https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx</a> Subscribe on Apple: <a href="https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3">https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3</a> Subscribe on Spotify: <a href="https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH">https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH</a> 
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: <a href="https://blockworks.co/newsletter/">https://blockworks.co/newsletter/</a> -- Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(0:58) The Rate-Cut Cycle Begins
(4:29) State Of The Market
(7:56) Crypto’s Mag7 Moment
(13:16) Are SOL DATs Bullish For Solana DeFi?
(24:27) Pump Fun
(40:14) CZ Launches Aster, Hyperliquid Unlocks &amp; The L1 Premium
(53:07) Base Token Launch Coming? -- Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Fed Cuts Rates, Crypto's Mag7 Moment & Why We're Still Bullish

This week Kyle Samani joins the show to discuss the successful $1.65B raise for Forward Industries. We deep dive into how Forward Industries plan to converge between traditional markets &amp; DeFi, the ultimate vision for the Solana treasury company, the difference between SOL &amp; BTC DATs &amp; why stablecoins are crypto's iPhone moment. Enjoy! 
 
Although our guest this week is an Investment Partner of a registered investment adviser, nothing in this podcast should be considered an offer of Multicoin’s investment advisory services or should otherwise be confused for investment, tax, legal or other financial advice. -- Follow Kyle: <a href="https://x.com/KyleSamani">https://x.com/KyleSamani</a> Follow Jason: <a href="https://x.com/JasonYanowitz">https://x.com/JasonYanowitz</a> Follow Empire: <a href="https://twitter.com/theempirepod">https://twitter.com/theempirepod</a> -- Join the Empire Telegram: <a href="https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh">https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh</a> Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis. 
 Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: <a href="https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts">https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts</a> -- Welcome to Get Real — Web3’s first-ever campaign rewarding you for creating real-world value. Connect your devices to real-world apps on peaq and earn rewards for: 
 Measuring noise pollution Providing compute Mapping the word And more 
 Total prize pool: 5% of $PEAQ’s initial supply. Get Real is relaunching soon — follow peaq on X and get ready. -- Is your treasury losing value to inflation? Learn how to make digital assets like ETH and SOL productive with uncorrelated, protocol-driven staking rewards. A new report from Liquid Collective and EigenCloud outlines a practical guide for CFOs to integrate institutional-grade staking and restaking.
 Read The Productive Treasury Report: <a href="https://liquidcollective.io/corporate-treasury-staking/">https://liquidcollective.io/corporate-treasury-staking/</a> -- Timestamps:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 -- Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Building The Largest Solana Treasury Company | Kyle Samani

We're back to discuss the top stories of the week. We deep dive into how crypto can redefine private equity, who wins from the battle for USDH, Figure's IPO, could DeFi projects go public &amp; more. Enjoy! -- Follow Rob: <a href="https://x.com/HadickM">https://x.com/HadickM</a> Follow Santi: <a href="https://x.com/santiagoroel">https://x.com/santiagoroel</a> Follow Jason: <a href="https://x.com/JasonYanowitz">https://x.com/JasonYanowitz</a> Follow Empire: <a href="https://twitter.com/theempirepod">https://twitter.com/theempirepod</a> -- Join the Empire Telegram: <a href="https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh">https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh</a>
 Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis. Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: <a href="https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts">https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts</a>
 
Referenced in the show:

A letter from Mike Cagney, Figure’s co-founder and executive chairman - https://www.figure.com/newsroom/company-voices/a-letter-from-mike-cagney-figure-co-founder-and-executive-chairman/
--
False Claim From Story: “vast majority was bought from founder”

Response:
This is simply not true. The vast majority was acquired from the Foundation in two transactions. First, the Foundation contributed $IP (at a discount) for shares in CASK. Additionally, the cash PIPE proceeds were used to buy tokens at a discount. These two transactions represent most of the total token balance held by CASK. The shareholder ownership for the Foundation and SY individually are all public in the S-1 filing. See page 153-157. -- GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [<a href="https://geodnet.com/">https://geodnet.com</a>] -- "Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3. Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"":
 - Transactions posted to the blockchain - Compatibility with TradFi rails - Integrated DeFi features
 Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier. Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'." --
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:50) Inversion Raises $26.5M
(10:51) A New Era For Private Equity
(25:54) Hyperliquid’s USDH Proposal
(47:31) Ads (Mantle, Geodnet)
(48:54) The Stablecoin Superbowl: Who Wins?
(1:02:08) Takeaways From Figure’s IPO
(01:14:45) Could DeFi Projects Go Public?
(01:16:37) Content Of The Week
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

The Biggest Winner from Hyperliquid’s USDH | Weekly Roundup

This week Guy Young joins the show to discuss the next chapter for Ethena. We deep dive into Ethena's business model, how DATs could enable DeFi's breakout moment, how Ethena will scale in the future, advice for founders &amp; more. Enjoy!
--
Follow Guy: https://x.com/gdog97_
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
 
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis. 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Is your treasury losing value to inflation? Learn how to make digital assets like ETH and SOL productive with uncorrelated, protocol-driven staking rewards. A new report from Liquid Collective and EigenCloud outlines a practical guide for CFOs to integrate institutional-grade staking and restaking.
 
Read The Productive Treasury Report: https://liquidcollective.io/corporate-treasury-staking/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(03:29 )The Ethena Business Model
(07:04) Valuations &amp; VC Unlocks
(12:44) The Ethena DAT (StablecoinX)
(15:11) Are DATs Sustainable?
(18:36) DeFi’s Breakout Moment
(24:12) Partnering With Pendle &amp; Aave
(31:49) Ads (Eigen Layer)
(32:48) Advice For Founders
(37:34) How Does Ethena Scale
(44:18) What Is iUSDe?
(47:47) Hyperliquid Is Launching A Stablecoin (USDH)
(53:39) Corporate Chains
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Ethena Founder: The Next Chapter For Ethena | Guy Young

Gm! This week we're back to discuss the top stories of the week. We deep dive into the mechanics behind DATs, the WLFI token launch, Stripe's announcement of Tempo, onchain equities &amp; more. Enjoy! 
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh

Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis. 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
-- 
Get up to speed on the biggest stories in crypto each week. In five minutes. 

Get the Bitwise Weekly CIO Memo delivered directly to your inbox at bitwiseinvestments.com/ciomemo/empire
 --
"Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.
 
Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"": 
 - Transactions posted to the blockchain
 - Compatibility with TradFi rails
 - Integrated DeFi features

Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.

Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'."
--
Is your treasury losing value to inflation? Learn how to make digital assets like ETH and SOL productive with uncorrelated, protocol-driven staking rewards. A new report from Liquid Collective and EigenCloud outlines a practical guide for CFOs to integrate institutional-grade staking and restaking.

Read The Productive Treasury Report: https://liquidcollective.io/corporate-treasury-staking/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(04:24) Are DAT Mechanics Sustainable?
(16:23) Do DATs Actually Unlock Token Access?
(21:48) Ads (Bitwise)
(22:34) Breaking Down The $WLFI Token Launch
(33:46) Stripe Launches Tempo
(49:12) Ads (Bitwise, Mantle, Eigenlayer)
(51:27) Onchain Equities &amp; Tokenization
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Are DATs Sustainable, Stripe Launches Tempo & WLFI’s Token Launch | Weekly Roundup

This week, the Hivemind team discusses post-Jackson Hole conditions, Bitcoin seasonality, and rate cut expectations. They analyze DATs and liquidity dynamics, MicroStrategy’s S&amp;P potential, Solana versus Base adoption, Pokémon TCG crypto experiments, and creator coin streaming models. They also unpack Plasma’s TGE, World LibertyFi, stablecoin and institutional chain use cases, and Tom Lee’s ETH commentary.
 
Enjoy!
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from Katherine Ross and David Canellis.
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire
Follow Ceteris: https://x.com/ceterispar1bus
Follow Jason: https://x.com/3xliquidated
Follow Yan: https://x.com/YanLiberman
Follow LTR: https://x.com/0xLTR
Follow Empire: https://x.com/theempirepod
--
Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx
Subscribe on Apple: https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3
Subscribe on Spotify: https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/
--
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:25) Market Outlook
(09:53) The State of DATs
(17:07) Streaming &amp; Creator Coins
(36:28) Plasma's TGE &amp; World LibertyFi
(39:51) Stablecoins &amp; the Tempo Announcement
(48:48) Tom Lee's ETH Saga
 
 
—--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Where Do Crypto Markets Go Next?

Gm! In this episode, Arjun Sethi, Co-CEO of Kraken, joins Yano to dive into how his background in tech, growth and IPOs makes him the perfect candidate to join Kraken and take the company to the next level. Arjun dives into how his compensation plan and overall approach to Kraken paves the way for a decade long growth trajectory that will take Kraken global and one of the most recognized brands in crypto for retail, traders and beyond. 
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis. 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Follow Arjun: https://x.com/arjunsethi
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users. 

Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
Is your treasury losing value to inflation? Learn how to make digital assets like ETH and SOL productive with uncorrelated, protocol-driven staking rewards. A new report from Liquid Collective and EigenCloud outlines a practical guide for CFOs to integrate institutional-grade staking and restaking.

Read The Productive Treasury Report: https://liquidcollective.io/corporate-treasury-staking/
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. 

Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
--
(00:00) Intro
(01:10) Arjun’s Background
(14:08) Culture + Product Velocity
(16:45) Arjun’s Incentives
(18:03) Ads (Katana)
(18:50) 1st month at kraken
(21:56) Prioritizing What To Build
(26:00) Future Onchain Trading
(31:20) Kraken Stablecoin
(33:38) Crypto Market Structure
(35:16) Competitor Analysis
(40:17) Hyperliquid
(42:25) X Stocks
(44:58) Ninja Trader Acquisition
(49:33) IPO?
(52:39) Long term Leadership
(53:53) Ads (Eigenlayer, Geodnet)
(55:32) Prediction Markets + Perps
(59:16) Tokenization / Onchain IPOs
(01:04:18) What's Obvious to Arjun
(01:09:46) 4 Year Cycle
 --
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Kraken’s 10 Year Plan With Arjun Sethi

Happy Friday! For this week’s Roundup, Rob and Yano dive into the recent stablecoin raises (Rain and M0) and explore the exponentially growing industry of prediction markets and discuss what could be beyond PolyMarket and Kalshi. They also touch upon the macro environment, where we are in the cycle and leave some killer content recs. 
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis. 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. 
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
-- 
Get up to speed on the biggest stories in crypto each week. In five minutes. 
Get the Bitwise Weekly CIO Memo delivered directly to your inbox at bitwiseinvestments.com/ciomemo/empire
 --
"Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.
 
Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"": 
    - Transactions posted to the blockchain
    - Compatibility with TradFi rails
    - Integrated DeFi features
UR, built by Mantle, is the first real-world example: an on-chain money app offering Swiss IBANs and unified access to fiat (EUR, CHF, USD, RMB) and crypto — bringing crypto into everyday finance.
Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.
Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'."
--
Citrea is the first zero-knowledge rollup to enhance the capabilities of Bitcoin blockspace and enable Bitcoin applications (₿apps). Citrea is optimistically verified by Bitcoin, offering the most Bitcoin-secured and native way to extend BTC’s utility to DeFi. 
Learn more about Citrea: https://citrea.xyz/?utm_source=bellcurve&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=website_promo  
Follow Citrea on X/Twitter for the latest on its journey to mainnet: https://x.com/citrea_xyz
--
Is your treasury losing value to inflation? Learn how to make digital assets like ETH and SOL productive with uncorrelated, protocol-driven staking rewards. A new report from Liquid Collective and EigenCloud outlines a practical guide for CFOs to integrate institutional-grade staking and restaking.
Read The Productive Treasury Report: https://liquidcollective.io/corporate-treasury-staking/
--
Chapters:
(03:06) Rain
(19:36) M0’s Rise
(25:58) Ads (Geodnet, Bitwise)
(27:26) Prediction Markets
(47:51) Ads (Geodnet, Bitwise)
(49:12) Ads (Mantle, EigenLayer, Citrea)
(51:38) DATs priced in?
(56:47) Cycle Analysis
(01:02:23) Content of the week
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, Rob and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Stablecoins & Prediction Markets, Nothing Else | Weekly Roundup

Gm! This week Yano was joined by Commissioner Hester Peirce to dive into how the SEC is rethinking and reframing the role that digital assets can play in the financial landscape of the US. In a balancing act between fostering innovation and protecting consumers, Commissioner Peirce’s job is an important one to move the industry forward stateisde. 
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis. 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Follow Commissioner Peirce: https://x.com/HesterPeirce
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
SKALE is the next evolution in Layer 1 blockchains with a gas-free invisible user experience, instant finality, high speed, and robust security. SKALE is built different as it allows for limitless scalability and has already saved its 50 Million users over $11 Billion in gas fees. 
SKALE is high-performance and cost-effective, making it ideal for compute-intensive applications like AI, gaming, and consumer-facing dApps. Learn more at https://skale.space and stay up to date with the gas-free invisible blockchain on X at @skalenetwork
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users. 
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
–
Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(02:14) Early To Crypto
(07:45) TradFi Censorship
(09:20) Goal of SEC
(13:06) Ads (Skale, Katana)
(14:36) Token Launches &amp; Transparency
(22:43) AirDrops/ICOs 
(23:57) Accredited Investor Rules
(25:00) Trillion Dollar Private Companies
(26:30) Innovation vs Protecting Consumers
(29:35) Licensing 
(35:52) Ads (Skale, Katana)
(37:22) Bank Secrecy Act
(40:29) Privacy In Crypto
(46:48) Self Custody
(49:20) DATs
(51:15) New ETFs
(55:51) Prediction Markets
(57:21) Politicization of Crypto
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Commissioner Peirce On SEC’s Next Moves

Happy Friday! On this week’s Roundup, Yano and Santi are joined by Ro to dive in and explore the signals, indicators and metrics that might or might not point to a top of the cycle. From Chamath’s SPAC, borrowing and lending numbers, Kanye meme coins, NFTs and more all provide unique insights into the potential frothy Q4 ahead of us.
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from David Canellis. 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Follow Roshun: https://x.com/roshunpatel
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. 
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
-- 
Get up to speed on the biggest stories in crypto each week. In five minutes. 
Get the Bitwise Weekly CIO Memo delivered directly to your inbox at bitwiseinvestments.com/ciomemo/empire
 --
"Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.
 
Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"": 
    - Transactions posted to the blockchain
    - Compatibility with TradFi rails
    - Integrated DeFi features
UR, built by Mantle, is the first real-world example: an on-chain money app offering Swiss IBANs and unified access to fiat (EUR, CHF, USD, RMB) and crypto — bringing crypto into everyday finance.
Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.
Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'."
--
Citrea is the first zero-knowledge rollup to enhance the capabilities of Bitcoin blockspace and enable Bitcoin applications (₿apps). Citrea is optimistically verified by Bitcoin, offering the most Bitcoin-secured and native way to extend BTC’s utility to DeFi. 
Learn more about Citrea: https://citrea.xyz/?utm_source=bellcurve&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=website_promo  
Follow Citrea on X/Twitter for the latest on its journey to mainnet: https://x.com/citrea_xyz
--
Chapters:
(00:52) Intro 
(04:01) Top Indicators Explored
(25:33) Ads (Geodnet, Bitwise)
(27:02) Lending Markets &amp; Leverage
(45:55) Private Markets
(54:38) Ads (Geodnet, Bitwise)
(56:00) Ads (Mantle,Citrea)
(57:36) Overlooked Sectors
(01:12:30) Content Recs
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

No, We Have Not Topped Featuring Roshun Patel | Weekly Roundup

This week, we're joined by Kaledora Fontana Kiernan-Linn to discuss the perpification of markets. We deep dive into where are we in the cycle, ETHs outperformance, how to compete with tradfi, what the tokenization of equities actually means &amp; more. Enjoy!
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from Katherine Ross and David Canellis.
 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire⁠ 
--
Follow Kaledora: https://x.com/kaledora
Follow Ceteris: https://x.com/ceterispar1bus
Follow Jose: ⁠https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo
Follow Yan: ⁠https://x.com/YanLiberman
Follow Empire: ⁠https://x.com/theempirepod
 
Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx⁠ 
Subscribe on Apple: ⁠https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3⁠ 
Subscribe on Spotify: ⁠https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH⁠ 
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: ⁠https://blockworks.co/newsletter/⁠
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(1:50) Where Are We In The Cycle?
(10:45) Who Is Actually Buying DATs?
(18:44) What Is The Ethereum Thesis?
(22:01) Trading TradFi Onchain
(29:46) Perp Funding On Ostium
(35:02) Crypto Exchanges Business Model
(39:09) How Can Crypto Compete With TradFi?
(56:16) Tokenizing Equities
(1:07:07) ETH Needs To Perform For An Alt Season
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Where Are We In The Cycle, ETHs Outperformance & The Perpification of Markets 

Gm! This week, Seth Ginns, from CoinFund, and Cosmo Jian, of Pantera Capital, join Yano to dive into the funds’ mandates, the overall outlook of the market, whether narratives or fundamentals drive price, how DATs play a role in the investor ecosystem and why sometimes non-consensus trades pay off!
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from Katherine Ross. Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Follow Seth: https://x.com/sethginns
Follow Cosmo: https://x.com/cosmo_jiang
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
SKALE is the next evolution in Layer 1 blockchains with a gas-free invisible user experience, instant finality, high speed, and robust security. SKALE is built different as it allows for limitless scalability and has already saved its 50 Million users over $11 Billion in gas fees. 
SKALE is high-performance and cost-effective, making it ideal for compute-intensive applications like AI, gaming, and consumer-facing dApps. Learn more at https://skale.space and stay up to date with the gas-free invisible blockchain on X at @skalenetwork
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users. 
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
Ledn is the leading platform for Bitcoin-backed loans, offering a secure and transparent way to unlock liquidity without selling your Bitcoin. Ledn has issued over $9 billion in loans since 2018 and has never lost a single satoshi of client assets, earning a reputation as the name you can trust in the crypto space.
Visit https://www.ledn.io to learn more.
–
Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(02:34) Liquid Funds
(05:35) CoinFund’s Mandate
(06:40) Pantera Capital’s Mandate
(15:22) Portfolio Construction
(20:17) Ads (Skale, Katana)
(21:48) Token Picking Strategy
(29:20) Narrative Driven Markets
(35:42) Acquiring, Trading &amp; Selling Tokens
(50:25) Ads (Skale, Katana)
(51:56) Investor Relations Advice For Founders
(55:03) DATs Explored
(01:12:29) Ads (LEDN)
(01:13:39) Convergence
(01:17:58) What Sectors Benefit Most From DATs
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

What Liquid Funds Are Buying Featuring Seth Ginns & Cosmo Jiang

For this week’s roundup, Andrew Keys, from The Ether Machine, joins Yano, Santi and Rob to dive into the unique value prop that The Ether Machine offers investors, his thoughts on the overall DAT landscape and how DATs, outside of BTC and ETH, are likely too far down the risk curve. They also discuss the rise and proliferation of private L1s like Stripe’s and Circle’s and explore who the winners and losers will be of these new projects. 
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from Katherine Ross. Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Follow Andrew: https://x.com/AK_EtherMachine
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
-- 
Get up to speed on the biggest stories in crypto each week. In five minutes. Get the Bitwise Weekly CIO Memo delivered directly to your inbox at bitwiseinvestments.com/ciomemo/empire --"Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3. Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"": - Transactions posted to the blockchain - Compatibility with TradFi rails - Integrated DeFi featuresUR, built by Mantle, is the first real-world example: an on-chain money app offering Swiss IBANs and unified access to fiat (EUR, CHF, USD, RMB) and crypto — bringing crypto into everyday finance.Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'."
--
Citrea is the first zero-knowledge rollup to enhance the capabilities of Bitcoin blockspace and enable Bitcoin applications (₿apps). Citrea is optimistically verified by Bitcoin, offering the most Bitcoin-secured and native way to extend BTC’s utility to DeFi. Learn more about Citrea: https://citrea.xyz/?utm_source=bellcurve&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=website_promo Follow Citrea on X/Twitter for the latest on its journey to mainnet: https://x.com/citrea_xyz
--
Chapters:
(0:00) Introduction
(2:06) Andrew Keys’ Background
(3:24) Why ETH Not BTC
(15:14) Why DATs
(24:44) Ads (Geodnet, Bitwise)
(26:21) Has The Vision Been Co-opted?
(35:57) DAT Rollups + M&amp;As
(38:59) DATs Beyond BTC + ETH
(43:03) Ads (Geodnet, Bitwise)
(44:40) ETFs Are Flawed
(50:34) Other Worthwhile Ecosystems
(54:58) L1 Private Chain Launches
(1:06:25) Ads (Mantle, Citrea)
(1:08:04) Stripe’s L1 + Paradigm
(1:13:32) Weekly Content Recs
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

The Ether Machine Chairman: Real Risk of DATs And Who Wins From Stripe And Circle’s Chains | Weekly Roundup

Gm! This week Miles Jennings and Eddy Lazzarin join Yano to dive into how a16z is approaching the current crypto landscape with a big focus on token design, designation, and how Founders can think pragmatically both along legal and engineering lines to execute their project. 
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from Katherine Ross. Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Follow Eddy: https://x.com/eddylazzarinFollow Miles: https://x.com/milesjenningsFollow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitzFollow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
SKALE is the next evolution in Layer 1 blockchains with a gas-free invisible user experience, instant finality, high speed, and robust security. SKALE is built different as it allows for limitless scalability and has already saved its 50 Million users over $11 Billion in gas fees. 
SKALE is high-performance and cost-effective, making it ideal for compute-intensive applications like AI, gaming, and consumer-facing dApps. Learn more at https://skale.space and stay up to date with the gas-free invisible blockchain on X at @skalenetwork
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users. 
Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
Ledn is the leading platform for Bitcoin-backed loans, offering a secure and transparent way to unlock liquidity without selling your Bitcoin. Ledn has issued over $9 billion in loans since 2018 and has never lost a single satoshi of client assets, earning a reputation as the name you can trust in the crypto space.
Visit https://www.ledn.io to learn more.
–
Timestamps:
(03:36) Progress In DC
(05:42) Paul Atkins’ Onchain Declaration
(13:55) End of Foundation Era In Crypto
(27:31) Ads (Skale, Katana)
(29:02) DUNAs &amp; BORGs
(40:12) Defining Tokens
(54:54) Ads (Skale, Katana)
(56:25) Token Transparency &amp; Classifications
(01:07:29) When Fees?
(01:15:55) Ads (LEDN)
(01:16:57) Balancing PortCos
(01:19:44) Common Founder FAQs
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

How to Launch a Token (Legally) Featuring Miles Jennings & Eddy Lazzarin Of a16z Crypto

Happy Friday! This week we livestreamed our Roundup and Yano, Santi and Rob got right into the topics of the week - DATs keep on keeping on, Coinbase’s convertible notes, Kraken and other upcoming crypto IPOs, Roman Storm’s guilty verdict, crypto and 401Ks, stablecoin growth continues, ChatGPT 5 launches and content recommendations. 
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from Katherine Ross. 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. 
Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
-- 
Get up to speed on the biggest stories in crypto each week. In five minutes. 
Get the Bitwise Weekly CIO Memo delivered directly to your inbox at bitwiseinvestments.com/ciomemo/empire
 --
"Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.
 
Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"": 
    - Transactions posted to the blockchain
    - Compatibility with TradFi rails
    - Integrated DeFi features
UR, built by Mantle, is the first real-world example: an on-chain money app offering Swiss IBANs and unified access to fiat (EUR, CHF, USD, RMB) and crypto — bringing crypto into everyday finance.
Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.
Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'."
--
Citrea is the first zero-knowledge rollup to enhance the capabilities of Bitcoin blockspace and enable Bitcoin applications (₿apps). Citrea is optimistically verified by Bitcoin, offering the most Bitcoin-secured and native way to extend BTC’s utility to DeFi. 
Learn more about Citrea: https://citrea.xyz/?utm_source=bellcurve&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=website_promo  
Follow Citrea on X/Twitter for the latest on its journey to mainnet: https://x.com/citrea_xyz
--
Timestamps:
(03:11) DATs State Of The Union
(12:45) Coinbase Convertible Notes
(27:16) Ads (Geodnet, Bitwise)
(28:44) Kraken IPO
(37:46) Upcoming IPOs
(39:39) Roman Storm Guilty
(48:55) Crypto + 401ks
(52:28) Ads (Geodnet, Bitwise)
(53:49) Ads (Mantle,Citrea)
(55:27) Ripple Acquisition
(57:16) Stablecoins Growth
(01:13:15) Content Recs + ChatGPT 5
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

No Top Signal In Sight | Weekly Roundup

This week, the Hivemind team dives into the recent market pullback and whether it’s time to be bullish again. We explore the future of Ethena &amp; USDe, why Galaxy Digital’s massive data center play may be the sleeper AI bet, Hyperliquid’s regulatory risk and future upside with HIP-3 &amp; more. Enjoy!
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from Katherine Ross and David Canellis.
 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: <a href="https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire">https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire</a> 
--
Follow Jason: <a href="https://x.com/3xLiquidated">https://x.com/3xLiquidated</a>  
Follow Jose: <a href="https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo">https://x.com/ZeMariaMacedo</a> 
Follow Yan: <a href="https://x.com/YanLiberman">https://x.com/YanLiberman</a> 
Follow Duncan: <a href="https://x.com/FloodCapital">https://x.com/FloodCapital</a> 
Follow Empire: <a href="https://x.com/theempirepod">https://x.com/theempirepod</a> 
 
Subscribe on YouTube: <a href="https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx">https://bit.ly/4jYEkBx</a> 
Subscribe on Apple: <a href="https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3">https://bit.ly/3ECSmJ3</a> 
Subscribe on Spotify: <a href="https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH">https://bit.ly/4hzy9lH</a> 
--
Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: <a href="https://blockworks.co/newsletter/">https://blockworks.co/newsletter/</a> 
--
Timestamps:
(0:00) Market Too Frothy?
(7:10) Are There Reasons to be Bullish?
(13:21) Ethena &amp; USDe
(21:05) Galaxy Bull Thesis
(32:07) Bonk/Pump.Fun Update
(38:15) Hyperliquid Still A Buy?
(49:51) Regulation &amp; Bullish SEC Speech
(52:59) Hyperliquid Regulation
(55:01) Crypto’s Institutional Wet Dream
(56:45) Crypto IPO Outlook
(59:57) Base Token Incoming?
--
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, the Hivemind team, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Hivemind: Don’t Sleep on Ethena, Bull Case for Galaxy & The Hyperliquid Future

Gm! This week, Duncan and Matt join Yano to dive into Galaxy the day before their quarterly earnings drop. In this episode, Duncan and Matt dive into Galaxy’s unique business model and how it’s perfectly positioned for the AI, crypto and datacenter narratives and how this will propel GLXY stock, as we move into the future. 
--
Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from Katherine Ross. Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Follow Rittenhouse Research: https://x.com/RHouseResearch
Follow Duncan: https://x.com/FloodCapital
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
SKALE is the next evolution in Layer 1 blockchains with a gas-free invisible user experience, instant finality, high speed, and robust security. SKALE is built different as it allows for limitless scalability and has already saved its 50 Million users over $11 Billion in gas fees. SKALE is high-performance and cost-effective, making it ideal for compute-intensive applications like AI, gaming, and consumer-facing dApps. Learn more at https://skale.space and stay up to date with the gas-free invisible blockchain on X at @skalenetwork
--
Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users. Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
--
Ledn is the leading platform for Bitcoin-backed loans, offering a secure and transparent way to unlock liquidity without selling your Bitcoin. Ledn has issued over $9 billion in loans since 2018 and has never lost a single satoshi of client assets, earning a reputation as the name you can trust in the crypto space.Visit https://www.ledn.io to learn more.
--
Chapters:
(02:32) Unpacking Galaxy
(06:35) Bitcoin Mining
(14:01) Crypto Business
(16:02) Ads (Skale, Katana)
(17:32) Galaxy’s Products
(24:43) Goldman Sachs’ Valuation
(31:58) Data Center Business
(42:39) Ads (Skale, Katana)
(44:10) Galaxy’s Business Evolution
(53:40) Economics Explored
(01:01:06) Data Center Developments
(01:13:05) Ads (LEDN)
(01:14:06) Challenges
(01:26:55) GLXY Stock Analysis
—
Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

The Bull Case For GLXY With Duncan & Rittenhouse Research

Happy Friday! On this Roundup, Rob is officially announced as the third host, Avichal join the pod to discuss DATs, and beyond DATs the White House Crypto Report is explored, Zora creator tokens, and the BIG news of the collaboration between Coinbase and Chase to push crypto into mass adoption orbit. 
--Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from Katherine Ross. Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
--
Follow Avichal: https://x.com/avichal
Follow Rob: https://x.com/HadickM
Follow Santi: https://x.com/santiagoroel
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
--
Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
--
GEODNET is the world’s largest RTK network, delivering real-time, centimeter-level precision for drones, robots, farmers, and first responders. Recognized by the U.S. Congress, this blockchain-powered network supports mission-critical applications across a wide range of industries. Discover how GEODNET is changing the world: [https://geodnet.com]
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Get up to speed on the biggest stories in crypto each week. In five minutes. Get the Bitwise Weekly CIO Memo delivered directly to your inbox at bitwiseinvestments.com/ciomemo/empire 
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"Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3. Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"": - Transactions posted to the blockchain - Compatibility with TradFi rails - Integrated DeFi featuresUR, built by Mantle, is the first real-world example: an on-chain money app offering Swiss IBANs and unified access to fiat (EUR, CHF, USD, RMB) and crypto — bringing crypto into everyday finance.Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'."
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Citrea is the first zero-knowledge rollup to enhance the capabilities of Bitcoin blockspace and enable Bitcoin applications (₿apps). Citrea is optimistically verified by Bitcoin, offering the most Bitcoin-secured and native way to extend BTC’s utility to DeFi. Learn more about Citrea: https://citrea.xyz/?utm_source=bellcurve&amp;utm_medium=podcast&amp;utm_campaign=website_promo Follow Citrea on X/Twitter for the latest on its journey to mainnet: https://x.com/citrea_xyz
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Chapters:
(02:14) DATs Explored
(19:37) Ads (Geodnet, Bitwise)
(21:11) ETHZilla
(30:32) DAT KPIs
(36:15) Ads (Geodnet, Bitwise)
(37:49) DAT FUD
(51:15) Ads (Mantle,Citrea)
(52:54) Native Token or DAT
(01:00:06) White House Crypto Report
(01:07:29) Coinbase X Chase
(01:11:17) Zora + Creator Tokens
(01:19:21) Content Recs
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Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.

Nearing The DAT Peak With Avichal Garg | Weekly Roundup

Gm! This week, Charles Hoskinson joins Yano to dive into everything Cardano, weigh in on crypto’s overall progress, how politics and crypto are playing out stateside, the impact of crypto treasury vehicles, the evolution of the 4 year cycle, his ranch life in Wyoming, his alien expedition adventures, the need for personal security now in crypto and why ADA remains a better investment than BTC.
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Start your day with crypto news, analysis and data from Katherine Ross. 
Subscribe to the Empire newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/empire?utm_source=podcasts
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Follow Charles: https://x.com/IOHK_Charles
Follow Jason: https://x.com/JasonYanowitz
Follow Empire: https://twitter.com/theempirepod
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Join the Empire Telegram: https://t.me/+CaCYvTOB4Eg1OWJh
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SKALE is the next evolution in Layer 1 blockchains with a gas-free invisible user experience, instant finality, high speed, and robust security. SKALE is built different as it allows for limitless scalability and has already saved its 50 Million users over $11 Billion in gas fees. 

SKALE is high-performance and cost-effective, making it ideal for compute-intensive applications like AI, gaming, and consumer-facing dApps. Learn more at https://skale.space and stay up to date with the gas-free invisible blockchain on X at @skalenetwork
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Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users. 

Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]
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Mantle is building the financial infrastructure for a tokenised future—bridging traditional finance and on-chain innovation through six integrated product pillars: Mantle Network, mETH Protocol, Function BTC, and the upcoming launches of MantleX, Mantle Banking, and the Mantle Index Four (MI4) Fund. Anchored by one of the largest community-governed treasuries in the industry, valued at over $4 billion, Mantle is delivering institutional-grade products designed for global capital markets.

Follow Mantle on X: https://x.com/Mantle_Official 
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Ledn is the leading platform for Bitcoin-backed loans, offering a secure and transparent way to unlock liquidity without selling your Bitcoin. Ledn has issued over $9 billion in loans since 2018 and has never lost a single satoshi of client assets, earning a reputation as the name you can trust in the crypto space.

Visit https://www.ledn.io to learn more.
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Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:42 What’s Charles Up To?
4:51 Crypto’s Progress
8:55 Ads (Skale &amp; Katana)
10:42 Charles’ Building Principles
24:01 Ads (Skale &amp; Katana)
25:48 Crypto &amp; US Politics
36:14 Crypto Treasury Vehicles
43:24 Cardano Founder Story
51:08 Ranches &amp; Helicopters
55:43 Ads (Mantle &amp; LEDN)
57:35 Bison In Wyoming
59:02 Alien Research Expeditions
1:05:28 Mo Money Mo Problems
1:09:18 The 4 Year Cycle Has Evolved
1:13:59 Alternative Health Solutions
1:18:54 EUTXO.org
1:23:25 Who goes to Osaka?
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Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.