At the nexus of AI, international relations and monetary policy, Bitcoin’s rise is poised to change the distribution and consolidation of power across the political stack.
00:00 - Intro: From the Bitcoin Policy Summit in DC
04:00 - Why Bitcoin touches every policy domain
06:00 - National security and dual-use tech with Patrick Witt
09:00 - Government’s evolving view on Bitcoin
10:30 - Balancing privacy, surveillance & freedom
12:00 - Private intel conversations on Bitcoin geopolitics
16:50 - Stablecoins, Clarity Act, and legislative strategy
18:30 - Strategic outlook: quantum, AI & China
22:00 - Lightning, AGI, and machine-to-machine payments
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/D2B6Svxjgew
In this conversation, Renee Sorchik and Yaël Ossowski discuss the concept of Bitcoin-based mortgages, exploring how Bitcoin can be integrated into the traditional mortgage system. They delve into the potential market for such mortgages, the regulatory landscape, and the role of institutions like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The conversation concludes with thoughts on the broader economic impact of Bitcoin mortgages and the potential for future innovations in the financial sector.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Bitcoin-Based Mortgages01:18 The Intersection of Bitcoin and Lending04:06 Understanding the Market Potential07:04 How Bitcoin Mortgages Would Function09:09 Regulatory Landscape and Challenges13:27 The Role of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac16:09 Potential Impact of Regulatory Changes18:40 The Future of Bitcoin in Banking21:21 Political Implications and Future Administrations24:16 The Need for Legislative Support29:21 The Broader Economic Impact of Bitcoin Mortgages32:03 Final Thoughts and Future OpportunitiesRegister for the Bitcoin Policy Summit using code "SORCHIK21" using this link: https://lu.ma/btcpolicysummit?coupon=SORCHIK21
In Episode 6 The Bitcoin Policy Hour, our team unpacks the emerging “Riyadh Accord,” a sweeping geopolitical realignment where the United States, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf nations are bundling AI, Bitcoin, and techno-industrial leverage into a new framework of global influence.As Blackwell chips begin to replace F-35s as diplomatic bargaining tools, and sovereign wealth funds quietly accumulate Bitcoin, Riyadh is fast becoming the epicenter of digital energy, intelligence infrastructure, and monetary power. The conversation explores how U.S. foreign policy is shifting from military entanglements toward high-tech trade agreements and capital co-investments — with AI and Bitcoin at the core.PLUS, we explore the recent slew of BTC treasury companies amping up activity and how they fit into the picture of jurisdictional and memetic arbitrage.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction01:45 - What Is the “Riyadh Accord”?07:30 - Blackwell Chips Replace F-35s in Middle East Bargains13:30 - AGI Infrastructure: Will the AI Run Happen in Riyadh?17:00 - A New Multipolar World Centered on Energy and Compute21:00 - Samourai Wallet, Legal Overreach, and Bitcoin’s Core Ethos26:30 - Policy Hypocrisy: Bitcoin Freedom vs. Surveillance State31:00 - AI Feudalism and the Fight for Decentralized Money36:00 - The Open Source AI vs. Corporate Subscription Future41:00 - Bearer Assets: Bitcoin, GPUs, and Energy as Sovereign Tools46:00 - Global Reflexivity and Bitcoin Treasury Companies51:00 - Metaplanet, Nakamoto, and the Meme Wrapped in Arbitrage56:00 - Bitcoin’s Geopolitical Moment: What Comes Next?01:01:00 - Closing Thoughts: Bitcoin Banks, Policy Risks, and Meme Economics⭐ Join top policymakers, technologists, and Bitcoin industry leaders at the 2025 Bitcoin Policy Summit, June 25–26 in Washington, DC🎟️ Get 21% off with code "BTCPOLICYHOUR" → https://www.btcpolicysummit.org/
Matthew Pines, Zack Shapiro and Zack Cohen tackle three pivotal issues shaping Bitcoin’s trajectory in episode 5 of the Bitcoin Policy Hour. They explore the rapid expansion of stablecoins into the energy and commodity sectors, the legal showdown over Samourai Wallet and its implications for Bitcoin software developers, and the GENIUS Act’s bid to redefine stablecoin regulation and US dollar hegemony. As these dynamics unfold, Bitcoin’s role in the evolving financial landscape faces critical tests. Tune in for a compelling analysis of how these developments could reshape decentralized finance and regulatory frameworks.
In this urgent and wide-ranging conversation, Matthew Pines, Zack Shapiro, and Zack Cohen explain why the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR) must be the top legislative priority — not market structure bills or stablecoin regulations. As China and the Middle East move faster on sovereign Bitcoin adoption, the U.S. risks losing its monetary edge in a geopolitical arms race. Drawing on national security strategy, economic tail-risk analysis, and the realpolitik of crypto lobbying, the hosts argue that falling behind could be catastrophic for open networks and freedom technology globally.Chapters:00:00 – Intro: Game Theory - Faster Than You Think01:30 – What is the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve? 05:15 – The Real Goal of the 2025 Bitcoin Policy Summit 09:50 – Why Market Structure and Stablecoin Bills Are Winning 14:20 – Hidden Risks of Rushing Non-Bitcoin Crypto Legislation 20:30 – Why Bitcoin Lacks Lobbying Power — and Why It Matters 25:45 – The Case for Bitcoin as a U.S. Strategic Asset 30:40 – Bitcoin vs. Gold: The Sovereign Play for Asymmetric Leverage 36:00 – If China Buys First, It’s Already Too Late 39:30 – Can the U.S. Still Win the Bitcoin Space Race? 43:00 – What Comes Next for Bitcoin Policy on Capitol Hill
This conversation explores global research on Bitcoin adoption, with a focus on survey and interview methodologies, insights from qualitative data, and the factors driving or hindering adoption across different countries. It emphasizes the human stories behind Bitcoin use and the need for stronger education and thoughtful policy. The discussion also examines findings from a comprehensive survey on Bitcoin and stablecoin usage, analyzing trust, cultural influences, and risk perception worldwide. By unpacking the methodology and highlighting varying levels of awareness and acceptance, the conversation offers key takeaways for policymakers shaping the future of financial systems.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Bitcoin Adoption Research
05:02 Project Background and Development
09:53 Methodology of Interviews and Surveys
19:55 Insights from Qualitative Interviews
29:54 Challenges and Catalysts in Bitcoin Adoption
35:28 Exploring Trustworthiness in Bitcoin and Stablecoins
40:35 Understanding Survey Methodology and Data Collection
47:31 Cultural Influences on Bitcoin Perception
51:31 Risk Perception of Bitcoin vs. Local Currencies
56:06 Future of Cryptocurrency and Policy Implications
Policy experts Matthew Pines, Zack Shapiro, and Zack Cohen explore the radical implications of artificial general intelligence (AGI) and how Bitcoin might serve as a stabilizing counterforce in a world dominated by AI. Drawing from the viral “AI 2027” scenario, we examine the risks of alignment failure, economic disruption, and geopolitical escalation—and argue why Bitcoin’s monetary properties could make it the most important freedom-preserving infrastructure of the post-AI era.
Episode #2 of the Bitcoin Policy Hour hosted by the Bitcoin Policy Institute. Geopolitics and policy experts Matthew Pines, Zack Shapiro and Zack Cohen discuss America's Bitcoin and gold strategies in the context of a new monetary order and U.S.-China competition. They game out for what reasons, and with what likelihood, the U.S. may pivot from hoarding gold, to accumulating Bitcoin, and what this could mean for global capital flows and international relations.
Join us at the Bitcoin Policy Summit, use code BTCPOLICYHOUR for 21% off: https://lu.ma/btcpolicysummit
In this conversation, Renee Sorchik, Andrew Hohns, and Matt Pines explore the concept of BitBonds—Bitcoin-backed treasury bonds designed to tackle the U.S. national debt—while highlighting the legislative challenges, bipartisan potential, and broader economic benefits of such an initiative. They also discuss the role of Bitcoin as a savings tool, the urgency of proactive policy, and BPI’s efforts to promote citizen engagement and innovative financing solutions for long-term economic growth.Join us at the Bitcoin Policy Summit: https://lu.ma/btcpolicysummitRead the BitBonds Whitepaper: https://www.btcpolicy.org/articles/bitcoin-enhanced-treasury-bonds-an-idea-whose-time-has-comeWatch Andrew's remarks at Bitcoin for America: https://youtu.be/g_kKwaIK_yA
Episode #1 of "The Bitcoin Policy Hour", a new show by Bitcoin Magazine and the Bitcoin Policy Institute where we cover all things geopolitics, public policy and Bitcoin.Geopolitics and policy experts Matthew Pines, Zack Shapiro and Zack Cohen discuss the Trump admin's tariff gambit in the context of US-China relations and the Triffin Dilemma, making the case that Bitcoin, despite its nascent appearance on the global stage, may be the unlikely focal point for global trade negotiations and domestic political strategy alike.
Join us at the Bitcoin Policy Summit, use code BTCPOLICYHOUR for 21% off: https://lu.ma/btcpolicysummit
In this conversation, Avik Roy discusses his insights on Bitcoin policy, the implications of fiscal collapse, and the distribution of wealth within the Bitcoin ecosystem. He emphasizes the importance of government attitudes towards Bitcoin and explores various scenarios that could unfold in the event of a fiscal crisis. The conversation also touches on the concentration of Bitcoin wealth and its potential impact on economic inequality. Read Avik's chapter from the Satoshi Papers: https://www.btcpolicy.org/articles/then-they-fight-youPurchase your copy of the Satoshi Papers: https://store.bitcoinmagazine.com/pages/the-satoshi-papers?srsltid=AfmBOora_GjLM56TNMH8kyU__cwYB0mv912maT-HKQHonAh6JL8iBsfE
Jake Langenkamp is a former active-duty service member and former civil servant with the U.S. Department of Defense. He is also the founder of Bridger, a Bitcoin mining company. BPI’s Vice President of Research, Renee Sorchik, sat down with Jake to discuss how Bitcoin mining in Africa could support President Trump’s vision of maximizing American-mined Bitcoin.
Read the report that inspired this podcast: https://www.btcpolicy.org/articles/mining-bitcoin-building-infrastructure-a-new-american-strategy-in-africa
Jorge Jraissati is an economist and policy expert with deep insights into Venezuela’s political and economic landscape. He has worked extensively on issues related to authoritarian regimes, financial repression, and the role of Bitcoin in promoting economic freedom.Learn more about Jorge: https://www.btcpolicy.org/authors/jorge-jraissatiRead the Bitcoin Policy Institute's latest research: https://www.btcpolicy.org/researchSubscribe to our newsletter: https://btcpolicyorg.typeform.com/newsletter
Dr. Joshua R. Hendrickson is an associate professor of economics and chair of the Economics Department at the University of Mississippi. Thomas L. Hogan is an Associate Professor in the Center for Economics, Politics, and History at the University of Austin. Dr. William J. Luther is an assistant professor of economics at Florida Atlantic University. He is the director of the American Institute for Economic Research’s Sound Money Project and an adjunct scholar with the Cato Institute’s Center for Monetary and Financial Alternatives.
Chapters
00:00 - Exploring the Bitcoin Standard and Global Economy
15:32 - Debt and Credit in a Bitcoin World
35:47 - Understanding Inflation and Economic Growth
39:20 - The Role of Monetary Policy in Economic Stability
45:13 - Interest Rates in a Bitcoin Standard
51:25 - Historical Perspectives on Monetary Systems
58:05 - The Costs of Inflation and Economic Calculation
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Matthew Pines is the Head of Strategy at the Bitcoin Policy Institute and the Director of Security Advisory at SentinelOne. Zack Shapiro is the Head of Policy at the Bitcoin Policy Institute and the Managing Partner at Rains Law. BPI's Zack Cohen sat down with Zack Shapiro and Matthew Pines to outline what Bitcoin policy might look like under the new Trump administration. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to the Incoming Trump Administration 00:59 - Key Personnel: Scott Bessent 05:50 - Key Personnel: David Sacks 14:53 - Regulatory Concerns of the Crypto Industry 26:31 - Legislative Landscape for Stablecoins 32:06 - The BITCOIN Act 39:54 - What Ross Ulbricht's pardon signals 48:49 - Global Implications of U.S. Bitcoin Policy decisions
Yaël Ossowski is a consumer and technology advocate, policy analyst, and writer. He is deputy director at the Consumer Choice Center and a Fellow at the Bitcoin Policy Institute.
In this webinar we discuss privacy, financial surveillance, debanking, the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, and other recent policy developments.
Visit our website: https://www.btcpolicy.org/
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Zack Shapiro is Head of Policy at the Bitcoin Policy Institute and the Managing Partner at his law firm, Rains. Zack joins us today to discuss a final regulation implementation by the IRS which would redefine the category of "brokers" to include non-custodial platforms. This rule subjects developers of these platforms to stringent reporting requirements which would undermine the peer-to-peer nature of their tools. We break down what the rule is and what impacts it would have, if it goes unchallenged.
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Jack Mallers is the founder and CEO of Strike, a digital payment platform leveraging Bitcoin and the Lightning Network.
BPI co-founder David Zell joined Jack Mallers to explore the overlooked nuances of Bitcoin, the regulatory hurdles faced by Bitcoin businesses, why America should embrace this transformative technology, and Jack’s vision for the future of the Bitcoin ecosystem.
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Read our latest report on the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve: https://www.btcpolicy.org/articles/digital-gold-evaluating-a-strategic-bitcoin-reserve-for-the-united-states
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Join the Bitcoin Policy Institute's Head of Policy Zack Shapiro, Senior Vice President of Operations Stephen Pollock, and intern Zack Cohen for a year-end review of 2024. In this episode we discuss the major events of this past year including the proposals for a strategic bitcoin reserve, the approval of spot bitcoin ETFS, and the ongoing battle against self-custody in the courts.
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Last week, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that OFAC overstepped its jurisdiction by sanctioning the Tornado Cash smart contract. Many have celebrated the victory, but what does the ruling actually mean for the future of peer-to-peer rights? Peer-to-Peer Rights Fund Executive Director Zack Shapiro breaks it down.
