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414- Fighting Bitcoin Fraud: Insights from 21bitcoin’s CEO 17.08., 16:0017.08.2025, 16:0000:40:33
A deep dive into Bitcoin fraud with industry expert Daniel Winkelhammer 🎧 Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll – Live from Electric Love Festival 2025 This episode comes with a twist: we’re recording from one of Europe’s biggest electronic dance music festivals, the Electric Love Festival 2025. Amid the beats and energy of the crowd, we dive into one of the most pressing challenges in the crypto industry today—crypto fraud, with a special focus on Bitcoin. Our guest is Daniel Winkelhammer, founder and CEO of 21bitcoin, who brings both a deeply personal journey into the world of technology and an insider’s perspective from running one of Europe’s fastest-growing Bitcoin platforms. Born and raised in Salzburg, Daniel’s story began with tinkering on family computers, evolved through studies in informatics and business informatics, and eventually led him from corporate consultancy at Allianz and Porsche Bank to a full-time entrepreneurial path in Bitcoin. Together we unpack the realities of crypto fraud: how scammers exploit Bitcoin’s irreversible transactions, why newcomers are particularly vulnerable, and how fraudsters build fake relationships to trick victims into sending funds. Daniel shares extreme real-world cases—like clients losing six-figure sums despite repeated warnings—and explains why fraud in crypto is both different from, and more dangerous than, traditional financial scams. The conversation goes further: • Why fraudsters are attracted to Bitcoin, and why Bitcoin’s transparency still makes it harder to commit crime long-term. • How 21bitcoin protects its 80,000+ retail investors across 30 countries with transaction monitoring, customer education, and strict custody safeguards. • The challenges of preparing for institutional clients under MiCA licensing. • Why Daniel and his team remain Bitcoin-only, both for ideological and strategic reasons. Amid the festival atmosphere, we return to the essentials: building trust, protecting investors, and ensuring Bitcoin adoption remains safe and sustainable. Daniel’s key advice? Educate yourself, stay patient, and think long-term. 21bitcoin Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- Germany's Security Token Issuances & Deka’s Digital Asset Monitor 10.08., 16:0010.08.2025, 16:0000:35:07
Deep Dive into the Security Token industry in Germany In this episode of Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll, we dive deep into Germany’s pioneering role in tokenized securities under the Electronic Securities Act. Host Manuel welcomes Marion Spielmann (DecaBank) and Benjamin Schaub (Intas) for a comprehensive update on how blockchain is transforming capital markets. We explore how Germany’s legal framework enables native blockchain issuance of bonds, shares, and funds — without paper certificates — and the role of BaFin licensing for crypto securities registrars. Marion and Benjamin share insights from the Digital Asset Monitor, their semi-annual market report developed with DecaBank, Intas, Frankfurt School Blockchain Center, and WM Datenservice, which tracks issuance volumes, technologies used, and regulatory developments. Topics include: • Why Germany is ahead with regulated tokenized securities. • Market leaders like Cashlink, Smart Registry, and DecaBank. • The dominance of public blockchains (Polygon, Avalanche) vs. private networks in light of Basel capital requirements. • Shifts in issuance volume post-ECB blockchain settlement trials. • The rise of secondary markets through the DLT Pilot Regime and OTC deals. • How upcoming ECB settlement solutions, wholesale CBDC, stablecoins, and commercial bank money tokens could shape the future. We also discuss the biggest hurdles: regulatory clarity on capital requirements for public vs. permissioned blockchains, investor adoption, and liquidity. With Europe holding a first-mover advantage, our guests stress the urgency of moving from trials to live operations before being overtaken by other jurisdictions. If you want a sharp, insider’s view on tokenized securities, market data, and the next steps for digital finance in Germany and Europe, this episode is your guide. Digital Asset Monitor in English Digital Asset Monitor in German Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- Bullish sentiment: ETH, Coinbase, Genius, and more | News 03.08., 16:0003.08.2025, 16:0001:01:42
Ether to new highs, while Coinbase announces super app and Trump signs Genius Act. In this monthly news edition of Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll, Jonas is joined by Alex, Michi, and Stefan to unpack the most important developments in crypto, digital money, and digital assets from July. Key topics include: 🚀 Ethereum’s comeback – A 50% price increase and a major narrative shift position ETH as “digital oil.” Institutional interest surges with billions in ETF inflows and companies like EtherMachine mirroring the MicroStrategy playbook. 📈 Bitcoin’s strong month – BTC hits new all-time highs with increasing corporate adoption. Over 200 companies now hold Bitcoin on their balance sheets. Bitcoin ETFs reach $115B AUM. 💸 Stablecoins & Regulation – The US passed the GENIUS Act, establishing a regulatory framework for USD stablecoins. We explore its differences to the EU’s MiCA, the political motivations behind it, and its impact on issuers like Amazon and X. Plus: Germany’s AllUnity launches the first MiCA-compliant euro stablecoin. 🏦 Tokenized Equities – Robinhood and eToro launch tokenized stock trading, targeting crypto-native retail investors. Are tokenized stocks the next step in financial dollarization? 📱 Coinbase’s Transformation – Coinbase unveils its new “everything app,” acquires token launch platform Liquifi, and partners with Perplexity AI – signaling a serious shift toward a fintech platform strategy. 🏛 ECB’s Wholesale CBDC Plans – The ECB reveals two new projects: “Ponturo” (short-term) and “Apia” (long-term), exploring how to settle tokenized assets with central bank money on DLT. Plus, we share new tools and reads in our monthly “Knowledge Bites” segment — including insights from the ECB, The Economist, and a new crypto treasury tracker. 🎧 Subscribe now and stay ahead of the curve with Europe’s perspective on digital finance. Episode on Genius Act vs MiCAR FAZ article on Genius Act vs MiCAR (German) FAZ article on Genius Act vs MiCAR (English) Call for expressions of interest in participating in the Pontes contact group Knowledge Bite Jonas: Crypto Tracker Knowledge Bite Alex: ECB blog post by Juergen Schaaf Knowledge Bite Michael: Economis article “The world should follow Trump’s lead on stablecoins” Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- Genius vs MiCAR and what it means for Europe27.07., 16:0027.07.2025, 16:0000:50:39
The US regulates stablecoins for the first time – what's next, Europe? Genius Act vs. MiCA – Stablecoins Between the US and EU In this episode of Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll, we dive into one of the hottest topics in crypto regulation: the newly passed US stablecoin legislation – the Genius Act. But we don’t stop there. Together with Anja von Rosenstiel, we go beyond the headlines and compare the Genius Act with MiCA – the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation. What are the key differences between stablecoin regulation in the US and the EU? What do they mean for issuers, users, and central banks – especially the ECB? And why is the US seemingly opening its doors to global stablecoins while the EU remains hesitant? Anja von Rosenstiel is uniquely qualified to answer these questions. She’s a licensed attorney in both Germany and the US, counsel at FinLaw in Frankfurt, adjunct professor at Boston University, and a research fellow at the Decentralization Research Center. Together, we also co-authored an article on the topic in Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung – linked in the show notes (English version included). In this episode, we discuss: • The content and implications of the Genius Act – and why it served as a “catalyst” for broader US crypto legislation • Key differences in issuer oversight, reserve requirements, capital obligations, and redemption rights • Why the Genius Act seems more innovation-friendly than MiCA – but comes with its own trade-offs • The strategic contrast: the US aiming for stablecoin dominance, while the EU focuses on restriction and control • What the EU needs to do now to stay relevant in the global stablecoin race – including ideas for ECB involvement This is a deep dive for anyone interested in stablecoins, regulation, and the global future of digital money. 🎧 Tune in, subscribe, and share! LinkedIn Anja von Rosenstiel Article on Genius vs MiCAR in FAZ English version of the article on Genius vs MiCAR in FAZ Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- The Evolution of Digital Currencies20.07., 16:0020.07.2025, 16:0000:56:29
Industry leaders from AllUnity, Bitwise, Citi, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, Dow Jones, and SAP discuss institutional adoption. 🎉 Welcome to Episode 350 of Bitcoin Fiat & Rock’n’Roll (BFRR)! 🎉 In this milestone episode, we’re thrilled to share a full replay of the panel discussion “The Evolution of Digital Currencies: Navigating the Future of Finance” recorded live at the London Blockchain Finance Summit. This dynamic conversation brings together top-tier experts from global financial institutions and blockchain pioneers to explore the evolution of digital currencies. Moderator: Bilal Jafar, Dow Jones Panelists include: Joy Adams, COO Digital Assets, Deutsche Bank Ray Dillet, Head of Financial Institutions, Bitwise Francesco Roda, Digital Asset Risk Director, Citibank Simon Seiter, CFO/CPO, AllUnity (former Head of Digital Assets, Hauck Aufhäuser Lampe) Previn Singh, Advisor, Global Digital Finance (former Head of Digital Assets, Credit Suisse) Michael Blaschke, IT Architect at SAP and member of SAP’s Digital Currency Hub Together, they dive into critical themes: Stablecoins vs. CBDCs: Why stablecoins are already winning in emerging markets Tokenization of real-world assets: From hotels to auto finance to securities Digital identity and agentic AI: Why AI-powered wallets are on the rise Institutional risk management and regulatory transformation across the US and Europe Blockchain beyond cost-efficiency: Rethinking entire business models Global hotspots for digital asset innovation: US, Europe, Middle East, Asia & South America Whether you're in traditional finance or a Web3 native, this episode offers sharp insights into how digital assets and money are reshaping global finance. Grab a coffee and tune in to this landmark conversation as we celebrate 350 episodes of BFRR! The London Blockchain Finance Summit London Blockchain Conference Full video recording of panel on YouTube Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- CBDCs at the Crossroads with John Kiff13.07., 16:0013.07.2025, 16:0001:02:03
Exploring wholesale innovation, retail challenges, and why stablecoins could become the future of digital money with John Kiff Welcome to a new episode of BFRR – Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll, the podcast where we explore the evolving world of digital money at the intersection of traditional finance, digital assets, and emerging technologies. In this episode, co-host Jonas is joined by none other than John Kiff, a globally respected expert on central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and digital money. With over 40 years of experience in monetary policy and payments—from the Bank of Canada to the International Monetary Fund (IMF)—John brings unparalleled insight into the global transformation of money. We dive deep into: 💡 How John got started in the CBDC space and how it's evolved since the early days 🏦 The global shift between retail vs. wholesale CBDCs, and where momentum is heading 🌐 Lessons from real-world CBDC missions, including Bolivia and Bhutan 📉 Why some retail CBDC projects are stalling (and what we can learn from that) 🧩 The role of tokenized deposits and their integration with wholesale CBDC infrastructure 🔐 Privacy, inclusion, and infrastructure—what it really takes to build a usable CBDC 💥 The potential for stablecoins backed by central bank reserves ⚙️ Composability, modularity, and the future of money on public blockchains 📊 Why central banks must rethink digital payment systems—especially in a multi-currency world. From technical nuance to policy implications, this episode offers a clear-eyed view of what's hype, what's real, and what's next for CBDCs and digital finance. 🎧 Whether you're a policymaker, developer, crypto-curious, or just obsessed with the future of money—this one is not to be missed. 🔗 Subscribe, share, and join the conversation on our Telegram community. — 📬 Follow John’s insights via his blog and dailies at kiffmeister.com or on Twitter/X @Kiffmeister 🔗 Learn more about the Digital Euro Association and our global CBDC tracker in the show notes. Paper on tiered remuneration by Ulrich Bindseil LinkedIn John Kiff X John Kiff Kiffmeister Daily Blog on digital money Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes, and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First, try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- Inside the ECB's Digital Euro Project and Stablecoins with Ulrich Bindseil06.07., 16:0006.07.2025, 16:0001:12:42
Balancing financial sovereignty with innovation - and how to navigate the future of public and private digital money with Ulrich Bindseil (ex-ECB) 🎙 BFRR – Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll is back with a timely deep dive into the evolving landscape of digital money. In this episode, co-host Jonas is joined by Ulrich Bindseil, Director General of Market Infrastructure and Payments at the European Central Bank (ECB), for a wide-ranging and insightful conversation on CBDCs, stablecoins, and the future of payments in Europe. Ulrich, who has been shaping ECB policy for over two decades, shares his unique perspective on the digital euro project, offering behind-the-scenes insights on its progress, challenges, and ambitions. From strategic decisions to technical architecture and privacy considerations, this episode covers the most important developments in the preparation phase—and what lies ahead beyond 2025. We also take a critical look at stablecoins, including their potential benefits, regulatory considerations under MiCA, and the ECB’s cautious but evolving stance on their role within the European financial ecosystem. Can euro-denominated stablecoins support the international role of the euro? Should the ECB allow them access to its balance sheet? And what role could public blockchains play in the future of wholesale finance? The episode closes on a personal note as Ulrich reflects on his 28-year journey at the ECB and hints at what's next. If you're curious about how digital public money, blockchain, and monetary sovereignty intersect, this episode is a must-listen. 🧠 Topics: ECB’s digital euro strategy & timeline Stablecoins & e-money tokens under MiCA Permissionless DLTs vs. permissioned infrastructure Interoperability, privacy & market share goals The ECB’s pre-funding policy & wholesale payments innovation International competition, strategic autonomy & future challenges 📡 Stay informed. Stay curious. Subscribe now and join us at the frontier of digital finance. Note that the episode was recorded on June 25, 2025. On this date, Ulrich was still in his role at the European Central Bank, which he left on June 30. Paper on digital money taxonomy Paper on digital money infrastructure LinkedIn SSRN Account Ulrich Bindseil Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- US Senate Passes GENIUS Act | News 29.06., 16:0029.06.2025, 16:0001:01:33
Senate passes first US stablecoin law as Circle IPOs and JPM launches tokenized deposits. 🎙️ In this end-of-month news episode of Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll, hosts Jonas, Alex, and Michael unpack the hottest developments in digital finance during June 2025 – and what a month it was. The stablecoin hype continues with regulatory history being made: the U.S. Senate passed the Genius Act, the first major stablecoin regulation in the U.S. This bipartisan legislation sets clear rules for reserve backing, consumer protection, and issuer licensing, marking a pivotal step toward mainstream stablecoin adoption. But will combining it with the broader Clarity Act derail its momentum? Meanwhile, Circle’s IPO hit the New York Stock Exchange – and made headlines. With a valuation nearing $50B, it surpassed even Deutsche Bank, making it one of the most successful (and underpriced) IPOs in decades. Is this sustainable or just a reflection of FOMO in the stablecoin gold rush? We also dive into JP Morgan’s bold move: launching the JPMD tokenized deposit on Coinbase’s Base – a first for a major bank on a public blockchain. What does this mean for the future of bank-issued money and the evolving lines between stablecoins and deposit tokens? On the market side, Bitcoin hovered around $107K despite geopolitical shocks, with new players like Paris Saint-Germain and Pakistan building Bitcoin reserves. ETH remained steady, and we reflect on our ETH “alpha” moment earlier this year 👀. Plus: • Why Stripe’s acquisition of wallet provider Privy shows real-world crypto payments are coming fast. • Circle vs. Tether: why Genius gives Circle the edge. • Could Europe be falling behind as the U.S. projects “crypto-mercantilism” to defend the dollar? Don’t miss our closing Knowledge Bites, including new papers on Bitcoin reserves, financial sovereignty, and a deep dive into the regulatory arms race between the U.S. and EU. 🎧 Subscribe now to Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll and follow us on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Telegram. Europe’s digital currency voice – straight to your ears. Bitcoin #Stablecoins #DigitalEuro #GeniusAct #CryptoNews #ETH #CircleIPO #JPmorgan #Stripe #CBDC #Podcast Knowledge Bite Jonas: Digital Euro Association: “The Role of Stablecoins in Financial Sovereignty” Knowledge Bite Alexander (German version): Börsen-Zeitung: “Bitcoin-Reserve: Genialer Schachzug oder kostspielige Fehlentscheidung?” Knowledge Bite Alexander (English version): Alexander Bechtel: “Bitcoin Reserve: Genius move or costly mistake?” Knowledge Bite Michael: European Parliament Think Tank: “Cryptomercantilism vs. Monetary Sovereignty: Dealing with the Challenge of US Stablecoins for the EU” BFRR E340: US vs EU: The Stablecoin Policy Divide BFRR E346: Scaling B2B Stablecoin Payments: SAP’s Digital Currency Hub BFRR E348: From Citi Bank to Stablecoins: Tony McLaughlin’s Bold Pivot Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- Digital Fiat That Never Sleeps: Stablecoin Developments in Payment22.06., 16:0022.06.2025, 16:0000:41:05
Permissionless, programmable, and global—money has a new operating system. In this solo episode of BFRR – Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock ‘n’ Roll, Manuel dives deep into the fast-evolving world of stablecoins—their structure, use cases, and the challenges that stand between them and mass adoption in traditional finance. Manuel begins by exploring what makes stablecoins unique compared to traditional account-based money such as bank deposits or fintech balances like PayPal or Venmo. The key difference? Stablecoins are bearer instruments on public blockchains—digital cash anyone can hold and transfer without needing an account, provided they're not on a blacklist. From there, Manuel examines the regulatory developments across the globe—especially in the EU, US, and Asia—that are bringing stablecoins under the umbrella of regulated financial instruments. Manuel also touches on the debate around whether stablecoins should be yield-bearing, and how that impacts their use as a store of value versus a medium of exchange. Next, Manuel moves into the real-world use cases—from crypto trading and remittances to B2B and B2C payments, merchant ecosystems, and interbank settlement. You'll hear insights into current adoption trends, including figures from recent studies by BCG and Castle Island Ventures, which estimate payments-based stablecoin volume ranging between $6B and $100B/month. Finally, Manuel tackles the infrastructure and regulatory hurdles still holding stablecoins back: the need for efficient on/off ramps (the “stablecoin sandwich”), compliance with the travel rule, lack of bulk payment capabilities, and the risks of unintended dollarization in emerging markets. Whether you're new to digital assets or deep in the crypto weeds, this episode offers a comprehensive overview of the state of stablecoins in payments—where we are today and where we might be heading. BCG Study: Five killer tests to gauge their potential Artemis Study: Stablecoin payments from the ground up BFRR E346: Scaling B2B Stablecoin Payments: SAP’s Digital Currency Hub Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- Digital Freedom, Privacy & Innovation: A Conversation with Joachim Schwerin15.06., 16:0015.06.2025, 16:0000:57:09
Why digital freedom and privacy matter – and why Joachim sees blockchain technologis’ breakthrough as inevitable Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- The Future of DeFi: AI-Powered Hypercustomized Crypto Yields08.06., 16:0008.06.2025, 16:0001:08:11
Obligate CEO explains how AI innovates DeFi. In this episode of Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll, host Michael Blaschke welcomes Matthias Wyss, CEO of Obligate—a Swiss-regulated tokenization platform that’s redefining decentralized finance (DeFi) with over $62 million in issuance volume and an astonishing 1100% YoY revenue growth since 2023. Matthias, whose background spans investment banking, fintech leadership, and spatial computing, takes us on a deep dive into the convergence of agentic AI and DeFi. Discover how hyper-customized crypto yields are revolutionizing personal finance—bringing institutional-grade strategies to everyday investors. We explore why now is the perfect time for AI-enabled DeFi: accessible AI tools, scalable blockchains like Solana, and maturing tokenization infrastructure are paving the way for personalized, automated investment products. Learn how AI is powering everything from conversational financial advice to automated yield-generating stablecoins. Together, we unpack the why, what, and how: Why it matters: Democratizing access to sophisticated yield strategies previously reserved for the wealthy. What it means: DeFi moving beyond one-size-fits-all to on-demand, risk-adjusted strategies powered by AI. How it works: A full-stack tech ecosystem blending blockchain, legal tech, financial engineering, and AI service layers. From crypto newbies to seasoned professionals, this episode sheds light on the next evolution of finance—making DeFi more user-friendly, compliant, and customizable than ever before. Whether you’re curious about agentic stablecoins, AI-powered asset management, or the changing regulatory landscape, this is an essential listen. 🎧 Tune in now and step into the future of finance—where algorithms mix your crypto cocktails and DeFi finally gets personal. Matthias Wyss on LinkedIn Margarita Finance Participate in Obligate’s current fundraise E340 US vs EU: The Stablecoin Policy Divide Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce tSransaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- Stablecoin and Real World Tokenization Adoption Accelerates | News01.06., 16:0001.06.2025, 16:0001:03:57
May’s transformational stablecoin news from industry giants – and tokenization novelty In this news-packed episode of Bitcoin Fiat & Rock’n’Roll, hosts Manuel, Jonas, and Stefan return to dissect May’s hottest developments in the world of digital money and crypto. The crypto market surged to a $3.4 trillion valuation, with Ethereum climbing nearly 50% and Bitcoin reaching a new all-time high of $112,000 – at least in USD. We deep-dive into the rising momentum around stablecoins. Mastercard, Visa, and Stripe are embracing stablecoins with full force – from wallet integration to direct merchant settlement – signaling a tectonic shift in payments infrastructure. Stripe’s move to support USDC-based accounts in underserved markets shows the global dollarization narrative gaining real traction. We also unpack Coinbase’s X402, a new payment protocol reviving the old HTTP 402 status code to enable microtransactions—especially for AI agents. Stefan explains how this could reshape the future of machine-to-machine payments. Public blockchain adoption is growing, with banks joining the race. JP Morgan expands its Onyx network and trials public chain integrations, while Morgan Stanley and others begin offering crypto access to clients. 21X launched its tokenized securities platform in Europe, and Robinhood and Kraken are moving into tokenized stocks. We close with “Knowledge Bites,” covering Google’s use of ZK proofs, Trump’s crypto ventures, and Microsoft’s vision of an agentic web that could replace SaaS. It’s clear: from stablecoins to smart protocols, the financial future is arriving faster than expected. 🎧 Tune in to stay informed and get ready for the future of money! Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- From Citi Bank to Stablecoins: Tony McLaughlin’s Bold Pivot25.05., 16:0025.05.2025, 16:0001:04:29
Tokenized Deposits and the Regulated Liability Network Concept vs. Stablecoins as digital Cheques In this episode of Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll, hosts Manuel Klein and Stefan Grasmann welcome Tony McLaughlin – a leading voice in the future of digital finance. Formerly known for his work on the Regulated Liability Network (RLN), Tony shares the story behind his dramatic pivot toward public blockchains and stablecoins. What changed his mind? A post-election “Thanos snap” moment, as he calls it. The conversation dives deep into the evolution of payments, from travelers checks to programmable digital money. Tony draws bold parallels between stablecoins and historical instruments, discusses the challenges of adoption in traditional finance, and explains the mission behind his new initiative: Ubix, a stablecoin clearing network. Whether you’re a crypto enthusiast, fintech strategist, or policymaker, this episode will challenge your assumptions and expand your view on the intersection of blockchain and traditional finance. Highlights: • Why stablecoins are more than digital cash • The fallacy of private blockchain adoption • The “Pokemon strategy” for banks • Stablecoins as the general-purpose technology for money • How public infrastructure could reshape the financial system Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce tSransaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- Quo Vadis Bitcoin (with Co-Pierre Georg)18.05., 16:0018.05.2025, 16:0001:12:45
Which role academia should play in crypto and the role of the Frankfurt School Blockchain Center In this thought-provoking episode of Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll (BFRR), hosts Jonas and Alex dive deep into the future of digital finance with special guest Co-Pierre Georg, Professor of Practice in Digital Finance and Technology at the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management and the new Director of the Frankfurt School Blockchain Center. Co-Pierre shares his journey from physicist to economist, central banker to academic innovator—touching on systemic risk, interbank markets, and his early fascination with blockchain technology. The discussion spans his work across continents, including a transformative fintech program in South Africa aimed at empowering underrepresented students and incubating real-world blockchain startups. As the new director of the Blockchain Center, Co-Pierre outlines a bold, academically rigorous vision for the future—pivoting the center toward deeper research while maintaining strong ties with the industry. He outlines three core research themes: Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), blockchain-based digital property rights, and systemic risks in crypto markets. The episode sheds light on key developments, such as Frankfurt School’s upcoming MSc in Financial Technology and the rethinking of flagship programs like Web3 Talents. The latter half of the episode sparks a candid and critical debate around Bitcoin’s role as a payment system, store of value, and speculative asset. Co-Pierre explains why he views Bitcoin’s use case as fundamentally flawed—from systemic liquidity concerns, Tether-related risks, and inequality of ownership, to its suitability as a societal instrument of value. Jonas and Alex counter with insights on Bitcoin’s resilience, digital scarcity, and potential as a decentralized hedge or digital gold. Whether you’re a crypto skeptic, advocate, or curious thinker, this episode delivers a rich, nuanced perspective on the tensions between academic rigor, market hype, and technological promise in the evolving world of digital money. Tune in to challenge your assumptions—and help shape the future of money. Website Co-Pierre Georg LinkedIn Co-Pierre Georg Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce tSransaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- US vs EU: The Stablecoin Policy Divide11.05., 15:0011.05.2025, 15:0001:00:39
Former central banker reveals divergent US-EU stablecoin policies. 🎧 EPISODE: Transatlantic Rifts – US vs EU Crypto Regulation with Jón Helgi Egilsson Welcome back to Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll, where monetary theory meets blockchain innovation. In this episode, host Michael Blaschke dives into the diverging regulatory landscapes shaping the future of digital finance. The U.S. and the EU are carving different paths in regulating cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, and blockchain infrastructure—an ideological and practical split with global consequences. Joining us is Jón Helgi Egilsson, Executive Director and co-founder of Monerium, whose unique vantage point spans central banking, fintech entrepreneurship, and both sides of the Atlantic. With a PhD in economics, leadership roles in central banking, and nearly a decade running a European blockchain finance company, Jón breaks down the core philosophical and strategic differences between the U.S.’s market-driven approach and Europe’s sovereignty-first stance. We unpack how Europe's MiCA regulation contrasts with the U.S.’s Genius Act and forthcoming Stablecoin Act, revealing different views on innovation, risk, and monetary control. John offers a candid critique of the ECB's competitive role in retail digital currencies and explains why requiring non-bank issuers to route through 12 intermediaries may contradict the very ethos of blockchain. Whether you're a policymaker, bank executive, fintech innovator, or investor, this episode delivers essential insights into how today’s decisions around CBDCs, stablecoins, and bank integration will shape tomorrow’s financial system. Trump's Stablecoin Strategy To Reinforce U.S. Dollar Dominance ECB exec renews push for digital euro to counter US stablecoin growthCommission livid as ECB warns of crypto apocalypse under Trump Monerium – From central banking to stablecoins with co-founder Jón Helgi Egilsson Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Digital Euro Conference Partnership: BFRR partners with the Digital Euro Conference 2025 taking place on March 27 in Frankfurt. DEC25 brings together leading voices shaping the financial landscape, covering topics around retail and wholesale CBDCs, stablecoins, and tokenized money in general. As an official event partner, BFRR gives away one free ticket for physical participation in Frankfurt. If you are interested, please write us an email to info@bfrr.de by January 31st. If you are not the “lucky winner”, you get 20% off the ticket prices with the code “BFRR20”. To buy your ticket go to the official website Click here and insert the code “BFRR20”. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- Stablecoins Reshape Global Finance: Circle IPO, PYUSD Rewards & ECB Panic | News04.05., 16:0004.05.2025, 16:0001:02:22
April's stablecoin surge signals a new era for institutional finance. In this special May edition of Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll (BFRR), we dive deep into April’s most explosive developments in crypto — from Bitcoin dominance and Ethereum’s narrative struggles to the evolving global stablecoin landscape. Hosts Alex and Michael are joined by Simon Seiter, CFO & CPO of AllUnity, one of Europe’s most ambitious euro stablecoin projects, for a timely conversation about the latest market dynamics, policy shifts, and business models shaping the digital currency ecosystem. The episode kicks off with a sharp analysis of Bitcoin and Ethereum's price action throughout April. Bitcoin showed strength amid traditional market turbulence, outperforming equities and absorbing institutional capital through record-breaking ETF inflows. Meanwhile, Ethereum lagged behind, raising new questions about its long-term value proposition — especially compared to emerging alternatives like Solana. Our focus then shifts to the rapidly evolving stablecoin sector. The team breaks down Circle’s newly filed IPO and uncovers key financial figures — revealing a growing, but heavily subsidized business model with distribution costs exceeding 60% of revenue. Simon offers behind-the-scenes insight into the economics of issuing regulated stablecoins in Europe and how the market is shaped by both U.S. dominance and European regulatory uncertainty. We also discuss PayPal’s attempt to pay interest on stablecoin holdings, the SEC’s formal declaration that USDC and USDT are not securities, and growing signs of institutional engagement — including Bank of America’s hint at entering the stablecoin space. The episode also covers Circle’s new global payment network, Revolut’s record crypto profits, Ripple’s acquisition of prime broker Hidden Road, and the birth of 21.co — a Bitcoin-native company backed by Bitfinex, Tether, and SoftBank. Finally, the episode touches on widening policy gaps between the U.S. and Europe, as U.S. regulators embrace stablecoins as a geopolitical tool, while the ECB warns against them in defense of the digital euro. We unpack what this divergence means for the future of payments, monetary sovereignty, and innovation. 🎧 Tune in for sharp takes, honest analysis, and an uncensored look into crypto’s most important financial and political battlegrounds. Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Digital Euro Conference Partnership: BFRR partners with the Digital Euro Conference 2025 taking place on March 27 in Frankfurt. DEC25 brings together leading voices shaping the financial landscape, covering topics around retail and wholesale CBDCs, stablecoins, and tokenized money in general. As an official event partner, BFRR gives away one free ticket for physical participation in Frankfurt. If you are interested, please write us an email to info@bfrr.de by January 31st. If you are not the “lucky winner”, you get 20% off the ticket prices with the code “BFRR20”. To buy your ticket go to the official website Click here and insert the code “BFRR20”. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- Strategic Bitcoin Reserve: Genius Move or Costly Mistake?27.04., 16:0027.04.2025, 16:0000:57:17
Given its advantages and disadvantages: What is our recommendation for national Bitcoin Reserves? Welcome to another episode of BFRR – Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll, the podcast where traditional finance, digital assets, and digital money meet! This time, hosts Jonas and Alex dive deep into one of the hottest and most debated topics in the digital asset world: Bitcoin reserves. Following earlier episodes that explored bullish and bearish perspectives with guests like Frank Schäffler (German Liberal Party) and Jürgen Schaaf (European Central Bank), Jonas and Alex now take the stage themselves. After much community interest in hearing their own views, they tackle the question head-on: Should countries build up Bitcoin reserves? The discussion kicks off with a look at the groundbreaking move by Donald Trump, who initiated the formation of a U.S. Bitcoin reserve using confiscated Bitcoins — a step that could have major implications for global crypto policy. The hosts compare U.S. strategies to Germany’s recent Bitcoin sales and explore various ideas being floated to expand the reserve without burdening taxpayers, including revaluing U.S. gold holdings and issuing Bitcoin bonds. Throughout the episode, Jonas and Alex structure the concept of "Bitcoin reserves" into three distinct types: Strategic reserves for crisis supply management (like oil or medical stockpiles) Reserves to foster monetary and financial stability (such as central bank gold holdings) Sovereign wealth fund investments (aimed at long-term financial returns) They thoughtfully weigh arguments for and against Bitcoin fitting into each model, referencing insights from their past guests and digging deep into questions like: Is Bitcoin too volatile to be a reliable reserve asset? How does it compare to gold? Can Bitcoin’s scarcity and network effects justify its inclusion in national reserves? Is the U.S. move a strategic geopolitical chess play against nations like China and Russia? Ultimately, the episode provides a well-rounded, critical yet forward-looking perspective on Bitcoin's potential role in the future of global finance. Join the debate, share your thoughts in our community, and subscribe to BFRR to stay updated on how the world of digital assets is evolving! Note: This podcast reflects the personal views of the hosts and is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial or investment advice. Always do your own research before making financial decisions. BFRR-Episode with Dr. Jürgen Schaaf (ECB) on the disadvantages of a Bitcoin Reserve) BFRR-Episode with Frank Schäffler (FDP) on the advantages of a Bitcoin Reserve - German) BFRR-Episode on the fundamental value of Bitcoin - German) FAZ article on the fundamental value of Bitcoin – English Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce tSransaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- Permissionless blockchains for financial services20.04., 16:0020.04.2025, 16:0000:50:33
Can permissionless blockchains serve as financial market infrastructure? In this episode of Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll, hosts Alexander Bechtel and Stefan Grasmann welcome back Professor Fabian Schär of the University of Basel to discuss one of the most pressing and complex questions in financial technology today: Can permissionless blockchains serve as the foundational infrastructure for future financial markets? Professor Schär—renowned for his work at the intersection of finance, economics, and distributed ledger technology—recently authored a comprehensive report for the European Commission titled Enhancing Financial Services with Permissionless Blockchains. The conversation builds on that report, exploring how public, decentralized platforms might offer a neutral, composable, and resilient alternative to the fragmented and institutionally controlled systems we rely on today. The episode unpacks key concepts such as composability, atomicity, and the importance of governance in blockchain ecosystems. It also critically examines common misconceptions—like the notion that blockchain’s value lies primarily in programmability or fractionalization—and instead focuses on the unique governance and trust properties that permissionless platforms can offer. Together, the trio explores the shifting landscape of blockchain adoption by financial institutions, the growing interest from central banks in EVM-compatible infrastructure, and the challenges of privacy, scalability, and validator neutrality. Professor Schär does not shy away from the risks, including the potential for centralization and governance capture—even on platforms that start out open. Whether you’re a policy maker, financial professional, or blockchain researcher, this episode offers deep insights into the technical, regulatory, and philosophical questions surrounding the digital future of finance. Fabian’s paper “Enhancing financial services with permissionless blockchains” Coinbase Paper on permissionless blockchains Episode 175 with Fabian on DeFi Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Digital Euro Conference Partnership: BFRR partners with the Digital Euro Conference 2025 taking place on March 27 in Frankfurt. DEC25 brings together leading voices shaping the financial landscape, covering topics around retail and wholesale CBDCs, stablecoins, and tokenized money in general. As an official event partner, BFRR gives away one free ticket for physical participation in Frankfurt. If you are interested, please write us an email to info@bfrr.de by January 31st. If you are not the “lucky winner”, you get 20% off the ticket prices with the code “BFRR20”. To buy your ticket go to the official website Click here and insert the code “BFRR20”. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- DeFi and DAO Research with Dan Liebau13.04., 16:0013.04.2025, 16:0001:00:29
Insights into the research from a Pracademic that combines practical and academic work In this compelling episode of BFRR – Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll, we explore the evolving intersection of decentralized finance (DeFi), blockchain governance, and traditional financial systems. Our guest is Dan Liebau, founder of Lightbulb Capital and affiliate faculty member at Singapore Management University, who brings a rare combination of academic rigor and hands-on industry insight to the discussion. Dan shares his personal journey from early roles in fintech—before the term even existed—to founding a firm focused on blockchain innovation and becoming a respected voice in digital asset education. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at his transition from the trading floor to academia, and why he believes direct experimentation with new technologies is essential to meaningful research. The conversation covers several key themes: 🔹 Security Tokens vs. Utility Tokens: Dan breaks down one of his most cited papers, which offers a practical and regulatory framework for distinguishing between types of digital assets. We explore the evolution of security token offerings (STOs), their early struggles, and how they may be poised for a resurgence. 🔹 DeFi Literacy and Institutional Relevance: Referencing his 2023 paper on DeFi literacy, Dan outlines why understanding blockchain mechanics is only one part of the equation. Strategic thinking, regulatory insight, cybersecurity awareness, and ethical considerations are just as critical for institutions looking to engage with DeFi in the next decade. 🔹 The Mechanics and Challenges of DAOs: Drawing from his recent book co-authored with Sandeep Oh, Dan dives into the world of Decentralized Autonomous Organizations. We examine their philosophical foundations, real-world complications, and the nuances of DAO governance—including voting dynamics, token delegation, and centralization risks. 🔹 Bridging Traditional Finance and DAOs: Can banks work with DAOs? Can DAOs become clients of financial institutions? Dan offers a grounded perspective on how hybrid models might emerge, how DAO structures could evolve, and what it will take for blockchain-native entities to engage meaningfully with regulators and established players. 🔹 The Human Side of Decentralization: We discuss what motivates people to form or join DAOs, how communities organize and stay engaged, and whether token-driven models of work and collaboration can truly replace or enhance traditional corporate frameworks. With co-hosts Manuel and Stefan steering the conversation, this episode offers a rare blend of thought leadership, research-driven insight, and candid commentary. Whether you're a seasoned finance professional, a crypto enthusiast, or a curious observer of the digital economy, this episode provides both depth and clarity on one of the most dynamic frontiers in finance. 📩 Connect with Dan Liebau via LinkedIn or at danielliebau.org. 📢 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and share it with colleagues and friends. Your support helps us bring more expert voices to the forefront of financial innovation. Lambert, T., Liebau, D. & Roosenboom, P. Security token offerings. Small Bus Econ 59, 299–325 (2022) Liebau, Daniel and Liebau, Daniel, Decentralized Finance: Impact on Financial Services and required DeFi Literacy in 2034 (October 14, 2024) Decentralized Autonomous Organizations: Daniel Liebau (Singapore Management University, Singapore) and Sandy Oh (Singapore Management University, Singapore) Singapore University of Social Sciences - World Scientific Future Economy Series. January 2025 Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce tSransaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Digital Euro Conference Partnership: BFRR partners with the Digital Euro Conference 2025 taking place on March 27 in Frankfurt. DEC25 brings together leading voices shaping the financial landscape, covering topics around retail and wholesale CBDCs, stablecoins, and tokenized money in general. As an official event partner, BFRR gives away one free ticket for physical participation in Frankfurt. If you are interested, please write us an email to info@bfrr.de by January 31st. If you are not the “lucky winner”, you get 20% off the ticket prices with the code “BFRR20”. To buy your ticket go to the official website Click here and insert the code “BFRR20”. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!
- BX Digital’s FINMA Win with CEO Lidia Kurt06.04., 16:0006.04.2025, 16:0000:51:51
BX Digital receives FINMA license In this episode of the Bitcoin, Fiat, and Rock'n'Roll podcast, host Michael Blaschke speaks with Lidia Kurt, CEO of BX Digital, a groundbreaking company in Switzerland that has recently received FINMA approval for a DLT trading facility. The episode explores BX Digital’s mission to revolutionize the trading and settlement of tokenized securities, utilizing blockchain technology in the regulated Swiss financial market. Lidia shares her background in finance and blockchain, highlighting her journey from consulting in the digital asset space to leading BX Digital’s efforts in blockchain adoption. She explains how Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) can disrupt financial markets by changing how assets are exchanged, making the entire infrastructure more efficient and cost-effective. BX Digital’s core innovation lies in the settlement process. Lidia emphasizes how the use of blockchain can significantly reduce settlement times and costs. The platform’s hybrid approach allows for digital asset settlements with traditional fiat currencies, ensuring speed and reducing the complexity of cross-border transactions. The company offers tokenized securities such as equities, bonds, and funds, focusing on efficiency and security for banks and financial institutions. In the conversation, they also discuss the regulatory landscape in Switzerland, where BX Digital benefits from a favorable DLT law, positioning it at the forefront of financial market infrastructure innovation. Lydia talks about the company's ambition to lead a shift in financial market systems, offering a blueprint for other markets globally to follow. The episode concludes with Lydia highlighting BX Digital's vision of a future where digital assets become a core part of the financial system, paving the way for faster, cheaper, and more secure transactions. BX Digital press release on the granting of the licence by FINMA Blockstories-Interview with Lidia Kurt Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here Digital Euro Conference Partnership: BFRR partners with the Digital Euro Conference 2025 taking place on March 27 in Frankfurt. DEC25 brings together leading voices shaping the financial landscape, covering topics around retail and wholesale CBDCs, stablecoins, and tokenized money in general. As an official event partner, BFRR gives away one free ticket for physical participation in Frankfurt. If you are interested, please write us an email to info@bfrr.de by January 31st. If you are not the “lucky winner”, you get 20% off the ticket prices with the code “BFRR20”. To buy your ticket go to the official website Click here and insert the code “BFRR20”. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!