Bitcoin has dominated headlines, sparked political debates, and divided opinions. Through all the noise, one fact remains: it’s been one of the best-performing asset classes of the past decade—but for many, the real significance of this technology is still just starting to sink in. In this episode of Object Subject Form, I sit down with Valko, friend, fellow CryptoPunk, and newly appointed Chief of Staff at World Liberty Financial, a decentralized finance platform launched in 2024 to simplify access to digital assets and crypto-backed financial tools. Known for his unwavering conviction on blockchain technology, Valko has gone all in on crypto—an investment stance most financial advisors would call extreme. But what drives this level of conviction? And what can the rest of us learn from it as Bitcoin continues to outperform nearly every traditional asset class over the past decade? We break down the fundamental reasons why Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies matter, why they remain central to conversations about financial sovereignty and technological evolution, and how they may play a pivotal role in shaping the next decade of global economics. Whether you’re crypto-curious or already deep in the space, this conversation offers perspective on why it’s no longer a question if you should pay attention. Note: This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always do your own research before making investment decisions. — Chapters 00:00 Bitcoin as the New Reserve Asset   01:10 Introduction 02:19 Why Bitcoin and Crypto Matter Now   04:19 Valko’s All In Crypto Philosophy   06:10 Bitcoin as the Future of Digital Ownership   09:24 Ethereum, NFTs, and Programmable Money   13:14 Transparency, Trustlessness, and Privacy in Crypto   16:16 Should You Stay Anonymous in the Space?   19:22 Reputation: Online vs. Real Life   22:13 Valko’s First Crypto Transactions and Early Days   25:34 CryptoPunks and the Birth of Digital Identity   31:15 Staying Informed in a Fast-Moving Space   34:36 The Political Landscape of Crypto   41:19 Is It Too Late to Get In? Advice for Newcomers   45:50 Risk Management and Building Wealth   50:10 The Rise of Meme Coins and Internet Culture   54:34 Imagining a Future of Widespread Crypto Adoption   58:30 The Impact of Crypto on Traditional Finance   1:03:10 Bitcoin, AI, and Exponential Technologies   1:05:40 CryptoPunks: Identity, Art, and Community   1:12:13 What It Means to be a voice of leadership in Crypto   1:18:01 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Valko     — Connect with Valko on X: https://x.com/valko — Specs News (On pause due to Valko’s new position at World Liberty Financial): https://www.specs.news/ — World Liberty Financial: https://www.worldlibertyfinancial.com/ — @Punk6529 TAP Thread https://x.com/punk6529/status/1701623475725533524?s=46 — CryptoPunks: https://cryptopunks.app/ — Learn more about CryptoPunks on the Brand Hub: https://hub.cryptopunks.app/ — Follow CryptoPunks on X: https://x.com/cryptopunksnfts — Connect with simon: https://zaap.bio/simonclowes