The Bitcoin.com Podcast

Austin Campbell ran roughly $23 billion in USDP and BUSD reserves at Paxos. Before that he was a fixed income trader running major funding desks at the banks. Today he's a Professor at NYU Stern and founder of Zero Knowledge advisory. So when he says the U.S. bank policy lobby is sabotaging itself, the mechanics matter.David Sencil sits down with Austin at Consensus 2026 for a dense, opinionated tour through what stablecoins actually do to bank deposits, why GENIUS Act implementation may bite crypto in unexpected ways, why he's bearish on CLARITY, and why Aave in its current form can't survive the nation-state security era.We cover:- The Paxos vs Circle SVB "craftsmanship" gap- The mechanical case that stablecoins don't cause deposit flight- Reshoring the eurodollar market into U.S. banks- GENIUS Act and the yield compromise- The decentralization / smart contracts / RWAs trilemma- Aave on Ethereum and nation-state attackersFilmed at Consensus 2026.Host: David Sencil

Wadoozie is a narrative-driven, on-chain attention network built on Ethereum, pairing a native ERC-20 token ($WADZ) with a real-world 48-state U.S. tour, 576 Signal Fragments redeemable for tokens (336 hidden across the 48 states, 240 in an online pool), and a Publishers Network that pays creators directly from a dedicated 7% of total supply.This episode features two guests from the Wadoozie team. The project is led by Mr. Wadoozie, Senior Internet Architect Engineer of Software, who brings more than a decade of experience in the cryptocurrency industry. He is joined on this episode by Tay, Operations Manager, who has a background in marketing and management and has run operations for multiple crypto projects.The token launches with a roughly one billion effective supply (two billion minted, 999,999,999 burned at launch), 0% buy/sell tax, a DAO-governed locked liquidity pool, and a renounced contract — every parameter publicly verifiable on Etherscan and audited by CertiK.At the center is Wadoozie himself: a returning signal that takes a character's form, traveling the country by tour bus to “activate” each state as a node in a fractured cultural network the mythology calls The Feed. The mission is structured as eight narrative Acts opening with the Austin Flagship and closing back in New Orleans, with seven Flagship cities — Austin, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, NYC, Miami, and Nashville — anchoring the arc across roughly four and a half months. After the 48 states wrap, the network expands to Europe.About Our GuestsMr. Wadoozie is the Senior Internet Architect Engineer of Software on the project, with more than a decade of experience in the cryptocurrency industry. He sits at the center of the mission — the returning signal that takes a character's form, traveling the country by tour bus to activate each U.S. state as a node in a fractured cultural network the mythology calls The Feed.Tay is the Operations Manager at Wadoozie, with a background in marketing and management and prior operations experience across multiple crypto projects. Tay runs the @wadoozie X account and sets the public voice of the mission as the network activates one state at a time. On this episode Tay represents the operational side of the project — the people moving the bus, dropping the Signal Fragments, and building out the Publishers Network across the 48-state route.To learn more about the project visit Wadoozie.com, and follow the team on X, Telegram or Discord.

CFTC Chairman Mike Selig joins David Sencil to discuss the future of crypto regulation in the United States.He explains the shift away from enforcement-driven policy, the push to make the U.S. the crypto capital of the world, and what new legislation could mean for Bitcoin, markets, and innovation.Topics include:- CFTC vs SEC- Federal crypto legislation- Bitcoin futures and derivatives- Prediction markets- The future of crypto in AmericaRecorded at Bitcoin 2026 in Las Vegas.

ChangeNow Chief Strategy Officer Pauline Shangett sits down for her second Bitcoin.com News interview — this time from Consensus Miami, after six years away from the U.S. market. Her sharpest call of the day: "99% of crypto plus AI projects are going to go obsolete... launching a new chain is going to be, I think, like a desperate measure rather than a necessity."We also dig into ChangeNow's evolution from a 2017 instant swap into a full B2C/B2B ecosystem — Pro accounts, private transactions for whales, limit orders, perps, prediction markets, an in-house AI assistant, and an RWA push with X-Stoxx and Ondo Finance.We cover:- Why Pauline says 99% of crypto+AI projects are going obsolete- Her "80% certainty" call that chains stop mattering by 2028 — and the exceptions (Monero, Ton)- The coming meme coin renaissance and why Base wants revenge on Solana for the pump.fun era- ChangeNow Pro hitting almost 800,000 registered users and doubling in a year- Private transactions / private send — how it works, why whales want it, and why it's not a mixer- Limit orders, perps and prediction markets across custodial + non-custodial rails- The in-house AI assistant built by a self-described "certified AI skeptic"- RWA strategy: X-Stoxx live since January, Ondo Finance partnership almost shipped- The soft-launched ChangeNow super app teased for Token2049Learn more about ChangeNOW:

Every year, Filipino workers abroad send over $35 billion back home to support their families.But a significant portion, sometimes up to 14% is lost to remittance fees.In this episode, Kengo Shoda (Founder, Stablecoin Club) shares insights into how stablecoins could offer a more efficient alternative for cross-border payments.He discusses a Philippine peso stablecoin initiative aimed at reducing costs, improving transaction speed, and expanding financial access for families in the Philippines.Beyond that, the conversation explores the broader role of stablecoins including developments like JPYR and how blockchain technology could reshape global payments.In this episode:- The scale of remittances from Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)- Why fees can reach up to 14%- How stablecoins could lower costs and increase efficiency- The vision behind a peso-backed stablecoin- The future of cross-border paymentsHost: Matthew Owens | Bitcoin.com News

In this episode of Token Narratives, Graham Stone and Alex Richardson break down two of the biggest crypto stories right now: Circle's new blockchain and token launch, and the high-stakes Clarity Act markup in the US Senate.They start with the market backdrop: Bitcoin losing $80K support, debate over whether this is just another relief rally, and the growing split between bullish and bearish macro takes. The conversation covers Dave the Wave, Benjamin Cowen, long-term holder stress, and why this cycle may still be young even if the drawdown has felt relatively mild.The episode then dives deep into Circle's ARK chain and token. Graham and Alex unpack what ARK is supposed to do, why Circle is building a stablecoin-native financial chain, how the token is structured, and whether this is a real infrastructure play or just another corporate token money grab. They also debate whether Circle's positioning, partners, and regulatory tailwinds give it a serious shot at becoming a major on-chain financial layer.Finally, they get into the Clarity Act markup: what the bill does, why the banking lobby is panicking about stablecoin yield, why developer protections matter so much, and how this legislation could shape the next phase of crypto regulation in the US. It's a wide-ranging conversation on Bitcoin, stablecoins, RWAs, policy, and the narratives that could define the next cycle.00:55 - Welcome to Token Narratives Episode 10101:29 - Market Overview and Analysis02:59 - CPI and Consumer Sentiment03:57 - Geopolitical Impacts on Markets04:28 - Bitcoin Market Analysis05:34 - Long-term Market Predictions06:59 - Ray Dalio's Bitcoin Analysis08:18 - Discussion on Stablecoins and Yields10:18 - Introduction to Circle's New Token, ARK13:16 - ARK Token Analysis16:58 - Future of Circle's Blockchain20:11 - Discussion on Token Utility25:19 - Conclusion on Circle's Strategy26:30 - Clarity Act Markup Discussion37:21 - Closing Remarks

Ben Reynolds was Silvergate's first Bitcoin-side hire back in 2016 and the company's president when it wound down in 2023. After stops at BVNK and BitGo, he joined SoFi six months ago to build out commercial banking at the intersection of TradFi and digital assets.In this conversation, Reynolds explains why most new stablecoins are doomed without users or distribution, what makes SoFi's 15 million members and $50B balance sheet an unfair edge, and why the next wave of stablecoin innovation belongs to regulated banks.We cover:Why stablecoins without users or distribution are "almost doomed to fail"The three legs of the stool: members, Galileo, and commercial bankingHow the GENIUS Act pulls stablecoin innovation back into regulated banksWhy bank-to-bank stablecoin interoperability is the next big problemWhat SoFi's $50B balance sheet means for counterparty riskWhy lending is the next frontier after paymentsFilmed at Bitcoin 2026 in Las Vegas.Host: David Sencil

Is anonymity in crypto really coming to an end?In this episode, Alex Richardson sits down with Boris Bohrer-Bilowitzki, CEO of Concordium, to unpack one of the biggest shifts happening in blockchain today—where privacy, identity, and regulation collide.While much of the industry is still focused on hype cycles and memecoins, this conversation goes deeper into what it actually takes for crypto to reach mainstream, real-world adoption.We explore why institutions remain cautious, what's missing from today's Layer 1 blockchains, and how new approaches—like identity at the protocol level and zero-knowledge proofs—could reshape the future of digital finance.In this episode, you'll learn:- Why anonymity may not work for large-scale adoption- The real role of privacy in a regulated world- How identity can unlock institutional use cases- What most blockchains are getting wrong today- Why the next few years could redefine the entire crypto landscapeBoris shares a clear perspective:For crypto to move forward, it needs to work within real-world systems—not outside them.This isn't about removing privacy—it's about building it the right way.Guest & LinksConcordium: https://www.concordium.com/X (Twitter): https://x.com/Concordium

What if Bitcoin isn't just digital gold… but the foundation of an entirely new financial system?Michael Saylor, Founder and Chairman of Strategy, joins David Sencil to break down Bitcoin's next evolution from a store of value to a powerful engine for growth, yield, and global credit.In this conversation, Saylor dives into:- Why Bitcoin could grow 30% annually- How Bitcoin-backed credit is changing finance- The rise of yield-generating BTC strategies- And what a Bitcoin-powered monetary system looks likeIf you want to understand where Bitcoin is headed next — this is the conversation to hear.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to STRC and Bitcoin's Potential02:48 Transforming Bitcoin into a Stable Credit Instrument06:03 Market Demand and Target Audience for STRC09:05 Comparing Bitcoin with Traditional Assets11:46 Understanding the Growth and Acceptance of STRC14:52 Competition and Future of Digital Credit Instruments17:51 Market Dynamics and STRC's Future Strategy

What does crypto look like in one of the world's most regulated markets?At TEAMZ Summit 2026 in Tokyo, Matthew Owens sits down with Kondo Tomohiko, CEO of SBI VC Trade the only licensed stablecoin exchange in Japan to explore stablecoins, regulation, and adoption. From USDC lending to Japan's upcoming JPY-backed stablecoin, this episode reveals how strict regulation is shaping long-term opportunity.

Arthur Hayes breaks down his macro framework for Bitcoin in this conversation with David Sencil at Bitcoin 2026 in Las Vegas.Key topics:- Why Bitcoin tracks global fiat liquidity- Why this isn't a true bull run yet- The $145K level that matters- AI as a potential credit shock- How money printing and bank credit drive marketsHayes argues that Bitcoin's price is ultimately tied to the expansion of fiat in the global system, not institutional narratives or short-term sentiment.Chapters:00:00 The Future of Crypto and Retail Involvement03:02 Oil Markets and Economic Implications05:52 Bitcoin's Performance and Economic Indicators09:11 AI's Impact on the Economy11:59 Liquidity and Monetary Policy15:06 The Role of Stablecoins in Global Finance18:00 The State of DeFi and Security Concerns20:55 Market Sentiment and Future PredictionsArthur Hayes IG - https://www.instagram.com/cryptohayes/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/arthur-hayes-b493b42/Substack - https://cryptohayes.substack.com/Web: https://www.cryptohayes.comX - https://x.com/cryptohayesMaelstrom Fund LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/maelstromfundWeb - https://www.maelstrom.fundX - https://x.com/maelstromfund

Ashley Ebersole spent his early SEC years on the distributed ledger working group. He has a vantage on the agency's crypto enforcement era that very few industry voices have.At Paris Blockchain Week 2026, he sits with David Sencil to walk through the embodiment theory courts later rejected, the asymmetric settlement pressure that forced startups to fold, and what tx is now building: the first FINRA-approved stock-token platform in the U.S.We cover:- The SEC's enforcement-first era and what it cost- The unlimited-budget settlement asymmetry- The embodiment theory and other rejected novel theories- What tx is building with FINRA-approved stock tokens- Why Gen Z is skipping traditional brokerage accountsChapters:00:24 - Bitcoin.com Live News Desk at Paris Blockchain Week01:28 - Background of Ashley Ebersole02:11 - SEC and New Technologies03:16 - Awareness of Bitcoin and Crypto04:06 - Experience at the SEC05:04 - Changes in SEC Leadership06:14 - Regulatory Challenges and Theories07:07 - Enforcement First Approach08:05 - Legal Theories and Court Rejections10:11 - Government Influence on Settlements12:06 - Bias Against Crypto14:02 - Legal Challenges and Court Decisions16:08 - Misunderstandings About Tokenization18:03 - Generational Differences in Financial Products20:25 - Predictions for On-Chain Real-World Assets21:42 - Understanding Tokenization 24:19 - TX and Tokenization Platform27:06 - Questions About Tokenized Stocks29:59 - Regulatory Approaches and Tokenization33:23 - Jurisdictional Differences in Tokenization36:30 - Future Discussions and Closing RemarksFollow for more conversations on crypto, markets, and the future of finance.

Arthur Firstov, Chief Business Officer at Mercuryo, joined Alex Richardson at Paris Blockchain Week 2026 to challenge the dominant DeFi narrative.The future isn't DeFi platforms beating banks — it's DeFi primitives living as backend infrastructure inside Revolut, neobanks, and traditional banks with polished UX and millions of users. Plus crypto cards as the consumer gateway, the 2026 fintech-pivot M&A wave, and Mercuryo's Mastercard crypto credentials product.We cover:- DeFi's actual adoption path: white-label inside banks- Crypto cards as the mainstream stablecoin gateway- The fintech-pivot driving crypto M&A in 2026- Mercuryo + Mastercard's crypto credentials product- What MiCA actually changed for an early-stage compliant firm

Michael Amar founded Paris Blockchain Week in 2019 because U.S. and Asian investors told him Paris had no crypto ecosystem. This year, 250 banks showed up.At PBW 2026, he sits with David Sencil to put real numbers behind the institutional adoption story, explain why MiCA enforcement is filtering who can attend European events, and predict where the next year's crypto M&A will land.We cover:- The 15-to-250 banks curve, year over year- PBW's "Paris is good for food and vacation, but for crypto, no" origin- MiCA enforcement filtering European events in real time- Why next year is the crypto M&A year- France's strengths and gaps for crypto foundersChapters:00:17 - Welcome to Bitcoin.com News Live Desk00:36 - Michael Amar's Background01:14 - Early Involvement in Digital Assets02:23 - Launching Paris Blockchain Week03:21 - Success and Challenges of the Conference04:18 - Institutional Adoption and Growth05:01 - Institutional Presence at the Conference06:18 - European Regulations and Compliance07:32 - Market Share and Competition08:46 - Future of Crypto in Paris and Europe09:33 - France's Role in Web3 and Crypto10:34 - French Regulations and Innovations11:11 - International Perspective on French Ecosystem12:20 - Venue and Logistics of the Conference13:34 - VIP Dinner at Versailles14:48 - Planning and Execution of the Conference15:42 - Importance of Quality and Logistics16:57 - Support for French Entrepreneurs19:38 - Safety and Perception Issues21:43 - Key Elements for a Successful Conference23:00 - Networking and Business Opportunities24:11 - The Importance of Real-Life Engagements

Robby Yung runs Animoca Brands' investment business — 650 portfolio companies across Web3. At Paris Blockchain Week 2026, he sits with Alex Richardson to argue blockchain's real product-market fit was always agentic commerce, not human consumer apps. Plus the iTunes "false promise" of digital ownership, why 6 billion gamers are the natural mass-adoption vector, and how RWAs bridge the physical and AI-managed worlds.We cover:- Why crypto's real customer was always AI agents- Digital property rights and the iTunes false promise- Gaming as the mass-adoption vector- What the metaverse actually is- RWAs as the AI-physical bridgeChapters:00:16 - Welcome to Paris Blockchain Week01:12 - Overview of Animoca Brands02:13 - Agentic Commerce and Blockchain03:41 - Consumer User Interface04:27 - Digital Property Rights Explained06:12 - Ownership in the Digital Age07:40 - Gaming and Blockchain Adoption09:28 - The Metaverse and AI12:00 - Optimism and Concerns about AI13:00 - NFTs and Their Future15:05 - Tokenization and Digital Twins16:05 - The French Web3 Ecosystem17:54 - Europe's Role in Crypto19:15 - Future Trends in AI and BlockchainFollow Bitcoin.com for more crypto interviews, insights, and market updates.

Georg Harer was a financial lawyer for 10 years before joining Bybit. Now Co-CEO of Bybit EU, he sits with David Sencil at Paris Blockchain Week 2026 to walk through the post-MiCA European crypto landscape — including the regulatory gap MiCA hasn't closed (crypto loans), the three-license stack platforms need to operate, and his pitch to regulators for a consolidated license that would save firms millions.We cover:- Crypto loans regulatory blind spot- The MiCA + e-money + MiFID three-license operator math- Why Bybit EU started with retail before institutional- Tokenized stocks at 2am at the club- Euro stablecoin liquidity vs USDC dominanceChapters:00:42 - Bybit's Growth and History01:11 - George's Background and Transition to Bybit02:21 - Bitcoin Loans and Regulation in Europe03:11 - Crypto Loan Regulation Discussion04:03 - George's Introduction to Bitcoin05:35 - Bybit's Focus on Europe07:28 - Trust and Regulation in European Crypto Market09:00 - Bybit's Customer Base and Licensing10:30 - Institutional Focus at Paris Blockchain Week11:15 - Average Bybit User in Europe12:28 - Bybit's Licensing and Regulatory Challenges14:11 - Future of European Financial Regulation17:31 - Euro-Denominated Stablecoins19:24 - Concerns About Dollar-Denominated Stablecoins21:35 - Reporting Requirements for Stablecoins22:22 - Excitement About Tokenized Stocks23:47 - Bybit's Future Products and Success MetricsFollow Bitcoin.com for more crypto interviews, insights, and market updates.

Frederik Gregaard, CEO of the Cardano Foundation, sits down with David Sencil at Paris Blockchain Week 2026 for a wide-ranging conversation that starts with one big idea: using Satoshis as a gas fee natively on Cardano — so Bitcoin holders get programmable DeFi without leaving BTC.From there it goes deep — quantum resilience, AI agent identity at BMW and Lufthansa, the $400 trillion TradFi identity standard now anchored on chain, Grant Thornton auditing the Foundation's books on Cardano (Bitcoin holdings included), and why Abu Dhabi is the only regulator green-lighting cryptographic privacy.We cover:- Satoshis as gas: programmable DeFi on Bitcoin via Cardano- Quantum, Q-day, and why UTXO-based chains score high- AI agent identity at BMW, Lufthansa, and 400+ enterprise clients via SocoSumi- Legal Entity Identifiers: the $400T TradFi standard now anchored on chain- Hannover Re reinsurance — $100M minimum → $50K on the London Stock Exchange- Grant Thornton's on-chain architecture audit of the Cardano Foundation's books- Midnight, BLS signatures, GDPR-compliant on-chain finance, and the ADGM exceptionRecorded at Paris Blockchain Week 2026.Host: David Sencil

"Absolutely not multi-decade." That's AMINA Bank CPO Myles Harrison's window for stablecoin payments going mainstream — if the US and UK get their legislation over the line.Myles joins Alex Richardson at Paris Blockchain Week 2026 to unpack what AMINA — the Swiss–Austrian–Hong Kong crypto bank behind the BIS's Project Agora — is actually building: corporate payroll in stablecoins, 24/7 settlement, and the regulatory groundwork that finally lets product teams ship.We cover:- Why Myles gives stablecoin payments 12 months, not 12 years- How MiCA and the CASP license changed what product teams can actually build- Gig-economy payroll, supplier payments, and the death of the $50 wire fee- Running AMINA 24/7 through the tariff weekend — with no downtime- Inside Project Agora: interop and legal finality as the two real walls- Why "bear market is for building" — and what TradFi is quietly shipping this cycleHost: Alex Richardson Recorded at Paris Blockchain Week 2026.

Morgan Stanley's spot Bitcoin ETF traded a million shares by day four — at 14 basis points. Not bad for a firm that spent years on the sidelines of the ETF race.Amy Oldenburg, Head of Digital Asset Strategy at Morgan Stanley, joins David Sencil at Paris Blockchain Week 2026 to walk through how the bank is approaching digital assets — across product, infrastructure, and regulation — and why she says there's more coming behind this launch.We cover:Morgan Stanley's spot BTC ETF launch and the 14bp fee strategyWhy emerging-markets investors tend to navigate crypto better than mostThe three-bucket framework: investments, infrastructure, new productsWhere Amy lands on quantum and "Q-day" for BitcoinThe GENIUS Act, OCC digital trust charter, and what's still missing from US clarityWhy cypherpunks and Wall Street aren't as far apart as they lookHost: David SencilRecorded at Paris Blockchain Week 2026.

In 2017, a Bitcoin-maxi friend tried to convert Erald Ghoos. He didn't buy it — he'd spent his career building bank startups across Europe and was, in his own words, on "the dark side." Today he runs OKX Europe and says 80% of crypto exchanges on the continent won't survive what's coming.David Sencil sits down with Erald at Paris Blockchain Week 2026 to dig into the regulatory pressure cooker reshaping European crypto — MiCA, PI, MiFID, GDPR, DORA — and why struggling rivals are already approaching OKX asking to be acquired. They cover OKX's decision to anchor three financial licenses in Malta, the new X-Perps product designed to bridge onshore compliance with offshore-level liquidity, and the unified spot-and-derivatives account that doesn't exist anywhere else in Europe.We cover:- The personal arc: from skeptical banker to OKX Europe CEO- Why 80% of European crypto exchanges won't survive MiCA + PI + MiFID + GDPR + DORA- Why rivals are openly asking OKX to acquire them- The case for stacking three financial licenses in Malta- X-Perps: bridging onshore compliance with offshore-level liquidity- Europe's only unified spot-and-derivatives account- Merz at Davos and the deregulation signal- Tokenized stocks and 24/7 global market accessFilmed at Paris Blockchain Week 2026.Host: David SencilBitcoin.com News X: https://x.com/BitcoinNews

Tokenized stocks trading 24/7 alongside crypto on one app. One European bank planning on-chain equity infrastructure by year-end. A "financial supermarket" where every asset class converges. This isn't a forecast from a think tank — it's what Vlad Maltsev, Deputy CCO at WhiteBIT, is hearing from the banks themselves.Vlad Maltsev joins Alex Richardson at Paris Blockchain Week to unpack tokenization timelines, MiCA's real-world impact on European banks, WhiteBIT's upcoming US expansion, and why compliance is still the only door that matters for institutional adoption.In this interview:- Why compliance is the gateway for every institutional entrant- How MiCA is pulling German and Dutch banks into crypto licensing- The "financial supermarket" thesis — one app, every asset class- Why tokenized equity could settle in seconds instead of days- WhiteBIT's MiCA status and US expansion timeline- What could dominate crypto narratives a year from nowFilmed at Paris Blockchain WeekBitcoin.com News: https://x.com/BitcoinNewsWhiteBIT: https://whitebit.comHost: Alex RichardsonChapters:00:19 - Welcome and Guest Introduction00:35 - Conference Overview01:04 - Institutional Adoption in Crypto01:49 - WhiteBit's Ecosystem02:30 - Sponsorships and Partnerships03:53 - Institutional Adoption Insights05:05 - WhiteBit's Market Focus06:12 - Stablecoins and Tokenization08:06 - Future of Financial Platforms09:07 - Crypto Trading Cup10:10 - Trading Strategies10:59 - WhiteBit's Future Projects12:17 - Future Use Cases in Crypto

Tokenizing an asset doesn't automatically make it liquid. After 14 years at the London Stock Exchange, KuCoin EU's Managing Director Sabina Liu has a reality check for crypto's RWA hype cycle.Sabina joins Alexander Richardson at Paris Blockchain Week 2026 to talk through what she actually saw in digital assets that TradFi missed, where tokenization genuinely solves a problem (and where it doesn't), how MiCA has reshaped Europe's exchange landscape, and why KuCoin EU runs as a broker — not an order book — under the new regulation.We cover:- Why tokenization alone doesn't create liquidity or demand- What TradFi still does really well — and why not everything needs to be on-chain- How MiCA has reshaped the European exchange playbook- Why KuCoin EU operates as a broker, not an exchange- France's role in Europe's institutional crypto landscape- Where the real bridge between TradFi and digital assets gets builtFilmed at Paris Blockchain Week 2026.Host: Alexander Richardson

Most RWA projects bolt onto Ethereum or Solana. Real Finance didn't — they built their own chain. VP of Ecosystem Growth Brandon Kazakoff joins Alex Richardson at Paris Blockchain Week 2026 to explain why, in his view, real-world assets aren't just another token category. Issuance, risk classification, insurance logic, and governance all need to live at the protocol layer, not on top of it.We cover:- Why Real Finance built its own Layer 1 instead of deploying on Ethereum or Solana- What RWA protocols actually need that general-purpose chains can't deliver- How issuance, risk classification, and insurance logic work on-chain- Why 2026 is the year RWAs shift from theory to structured financial products- What institutional interest in RWAs actually looks like right nowFilmed at Paris Blockchain Week 2026.Host: Alex Richardson

Is Europe on a countdown clock? Bitpanda's Enterprise lead for France, Mathieu Henry, thinks so — and he's marking 2028 as the year crypto becomes fully commoditized across the continent.Mathieu sits down with David Sencil and Alexander Richardson at Paris Blockchain Week to talk about why MiCA pulled banks off the sidelines, how Bitpanda quietly runs the full crypto stack behind Lydia (France's 8M-user payments app), and why the biggest remaining blocker to institutional adoption isn't regulation — it's trust.We cover:- Why crypto will be fully commoditized in Europe by mid-2028- How Bitpanda powers Lydia's crypto product end-to-end- The B2B pivot reshaping Bitpanda's business- What the latest AFD report reveals about French crypto adoption- How MiCA actually changed the institutional calculus- The real blocker: trust between crypto-native players and banks- Where Europe stands vs the US and Hong KongFilmed at Paris Blockchain Week.Host: David Sencil | Co-host: Alexander Richardson

France has a crypto paradox. 93% of adults know what it is. Only 11% actually own any. Bybit France Country Manager Ambroise Helaine thinks the gap has almost nothing to do with regulation — and everything to do with product.Ambroise sits down with David Sencil and Alexander Richardson at Paris Blockchain Week 2026 to talk through what a conservative European retail market actually wants (hint: not leverage), why 50% of retail assets still sit in zero-interest cash accounts, and why MiCA alone isn't enough to unlock the full exchange playbook — three separate licenses are.We cover:- Why French crypto adoption plateaued despite MiCA landing- How Bybit rebuilt its European strategy around conservative savers- The three regulatory licenses European exchanges actually need- Why every exchange may eventually issue its own stablecoin- The DCA-first product line for set-and-forget investors- Tokenized stocks and what's actually shipping- How Europe stacks up against US and Asian crypto marketsFilmed at Paris Blockchain Week 2026.Host: David Sencil | Co-host: Alexander Richardson

Looking for a single app that combines crypto news, trading insights, prediction markets, and wallet integration?In this episode, Shrey Pandey (Tech Lead at Bitcoin.com) breaks down how their team built an all-in-one crypto news app designed for both beginners and advanced traders—in under 2 months using AI/ML tools.Discover how this app simplifies crypto for the 80% of users who are still hesitant to engage, while giving power users a unified dashboard (Terminal Mode) to act on market-moving information instantly.Inside this deep-dive demo, you'll learn about:- A personalized crypto news feed with 24-hour digest + audio playback- Seamless wallet integration without confusing crypto jargon- Prediction markets directly tied to breaking news events- Terminal Mode for real-time trading insights and execution- Satoshi Herald mode for distraction-free, ad-free reading- Multi-platform experience across iOS, Android, Apple Watch, and Apple TV- Social features like following wallets and tipping creators

What happens when crypto payments go live in a real-world retail environment—like an airport?In this episode, Gen Adachi shares how Netstars launched a USDC payment pilot at Haneda Airport in Japan—and saw demand exceed expectations by 10x. This isn't theory or hype—this is one of the strongest real-world use cases for stablecoins in everyday payments today.We dive into how USDC is being used at checkout, why QR payment infrastructure in Japan makes it easier to integrate crypto, and how Netstars is positioning itself as a major payments aggregator with access to over 700,000 merchants.Gen also breaks down the future of crypto payments—from multi-wallet and multi-chain support to expanding pilots beyond airports, including a Pokémon card shop in Osaka and international markets like Qatar, Mongolia, and Cambodia.If you're interested in crypto adoption, stablecoins like USDC, real-world blockchain use cases, or the future of digital payments in Asia, this conversation is packed with insights.**Topics covered:**- USDC payments in real-world retail- Haneda Airport crypto payment pilot- Stablecoin adoption in Japan- QR code payment systems and Web3- Multi-wallet, multi-chain payment infrastructure- Netstars and Japan's payment ecosystem- Global expansion of crypto payments**Chapters:**00:00 – Intro01:11 – Netstars: Aggregating 60 Payment Methods01:26 – USDC Live Pilot at Haneda Airport02:28 – Multi-Wallet, Multi-Chain Future04:06 – 10x Results: Pilot Performance Beat Expectations06:53 – Market Position: 700K Merchants in Japan07:29 – Second POC: Pokémon Card Shop in Osaka11:45 – International Expansion: Qatar, Mongolia, Cambodia

What does it take for Web3 social media to achieve real adoption?In this episode, Raul Velazquez discusses how ENVO has grown to over 500,000 users and what this means for the future of decentralized social platforms. As the shift from Web2 to Web3 continues, platforms like ENVO are exploring new ways to combine user-friendly design, creator monetization, and global accessibility.This conversation covers the key challenges that have held back Web3 social media in the past—and the strategies now being used to overcome them. Topics include user onboarding, creator economies, AI-powered translation, token-based incentives, and regional growth strategies across Asia.Whether you're interested in blockchain technology, cryptocurrency adoption, or the evolution of digital communities, this episode provides insight into how social platforms may evolve in a decentralized future.

In this episode, Even Realities CEO Will Wang breaks down why smart glasses may be closer to mainstream adoption than we think. From subtle, everyday design to powerful AI features and developer-driven ecosystems, this conversation explores how wearable tech is evolving beyond novelty into something genuinely useful.We dive into the Even G2 and EvenHub platform, unpacking real-world use cases like live translation, teleprompting, and AI-powered meeting summaries. Will also shares why developers are excited about agent workflows on eyewear, how a ring-based control system changes the user experience, and why the company made bold design decisions—like skipping the camera entirely.If you're curious about the future of ambient computing, hands-free interfaces, and where AI meets hardware, this episode is worth a listen.Featuring:Will Wang (CEO, Even Realities)Hosted by Matthew OwensTopics include:- Smart glasses design that blends into everyday life- AI-powered features that actually matter- The role of developers in shaping wearable tech- New interaction models (including ring controls)- Why the future of computing may be more invisibleListen now and explore how wearable AI is becoming part of daily life.Follow Bitcoin.com News for more: https://x.com/BTCTN

What is the real endgame for crypto?Phillip Pon, CEO of EMURGO, joins David Sencil to explore why the future of crypto lies in building onchain banking systems that function as real financial infrastructure—especially for emerging markets.In this episode, Phillip shares insights on why self-custody, stable value, and distribution are critical to crypto adoption, and why the industry must move beyond speculative, casino-style use cases.He also discusses how blockchain can coexist with traditional finance, the importance of compliance and privacy, and how real-world utility will define the next phase of growth.The conversation also covers institutional adoption, the role of Japan in the global blockchain ecosystem, and why crypto may have a unique advantage in an AI-driven world.Topics include: onchain banking, crypto adoption, blockchain infrastructure, Cardano ecosystem, EMURGO, digital finance, emerging markets, self-custody, stablecoins, and the future of money.⏱️ Chapters:00:00 – Introduction & Phillip Pon's Journey05:02 – EMURGO & the Cardano Ecosystem09:52 – Onchain Banking & Real-World Use Cases14:58 – Privacy, Compliance & Blockchain20:12 – Institutional Adoption25:06 – Japan & Regulatory Challenges27:57 – Future Outlook

Hamze Fawzi, Founder and Chairman of Assets Advisors Capital (AAC), joins Bitcoin.com News to discuss the growing financial bridge between the Gulf region and Japan, and how institutional infrastructure is shaping the future of crypto.In this episode, Hamze explains why traditional financial systems failed to connect these two major economies—and how blockchain, tokenization, and “capital architecture” are now unlocking new cross-border opportunities. He shares insights into how institutional investors approach risk, governance, and geopolitical events differently from retail participants.The conversation also explores the rise of real-world asset (RWA) tokenization, the role of compliant and non-custodial platforms like Mirai X, and why Japan's leadership in CBDCs and stablecoins could play a key role in the next phase of global finance.From capital flows driven by presence and relationships to the importance of trust and governance structures, this episode provides a deep dive into how institutions are entering Web3.Topics include: institutional crypto adoption, Gulf–Japan finance, RWA tokenization, stablecoins, CBDCs, Web3 infrastructure, capital markets, blockchain regulation, and global crypto trends.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to AAC and Its Role01:07 Impact of Geopolitical Situations on Business03:27 The Bridge Between GCC and Japan05:00 Institutional vs Retail Investment in Crypto07:53 Tokenization of Real World Assets10:07 Decentralized Platforms and Compliance12:37 The Future of Stablecoins14:05 Cultural Insights: GCC and Japan16:23 Building Trust and Governance Structures19:41 The Human Element in Business22:05 Future Plans for AAC

Justin Waldron, founder of Play.fun, joins David Sencil to explore the future of crypto gaming, Web3 game development, and how blockchain technology is reshaping the gaming industry.Recorded at Team Summit in Tokyo, this conversation dives into how frictionless onboarding, fair token launches, and fast, low-cost infrastructure like Solana are enabling a new generation of games. Justin also shares insights on why bear markets produce the strongest builders, how mobile gaming dominates in Asia, and why simpler, casual games may drive the next wave of adoption.They also discuss the role of AI in game creation, the rise of short-form gaming experiences, and how platforms like Play.fun are lowering barriers by removing wallet friction and enabling anonymous access.Topics include: crypto gaming, Web3 games, Solana blockchain, game development, token launches, mobile gaming trends, AI in gaming, and the future of digital entertainment.⏱️ Chapters:00:00 – Navigating the Crypto Landscape05:02 – Introducing Play.fun & Open Game Protocol10:02 – The Evolution of Game Development14:54 – The Role of AI in Game Creation20:03 – The Future of Gaming in Japan25:08 – Crypto Meets Gaming29:51 – The Next 12–18 Months

Mark Piano, Director and Consultant at Horizons Global, joins Bitcoin.com News to discuss the future of yen-backed stablecoins, Japan's evolving crypto regulations, and how legal frameworks are shaping the next phase of Web3 growth.In this episode, Mark explains why Japan's regulatory clarity could become a major advantage for blockchain builders, and how yen stablecoins may unlock new opportunities in tokenization, DeFi, and cross-border finance. He also breaks down the role of offshore structures, including Cayman foundation companies, and why they've become a standard for Web3 projects globally.From Bitcoin's early real-world use cases to the lessons learned from the DAO hack, this conversation explores how law, infrastructure, and innovation intersect in the crypto industry.Topics include: stablecoins, Japan crypto regulation, Web3 infrastructure, tokenization, DeFi, offshore finance, Cayman foundations, Bitcoin adoption, and global crypto markets.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction01:08 – Bitcoin Utility in Myanmar (No ATMs)02:30 – The DAO Hack & Becoming a Crypto Lawyer03:45 – Moving to the Cayman Islands04:50 – Why Cayman Became a Crypto Hub06:05 – What Are Cayman Foundation Companies?06:45 – Why Ownerless Foundations Matter in Web308:00 – Onshore vs Offshore Structures14:13 – Directors' Fiduciary Duties Explained16:33 – Why Mark Is in Japan17:18 – Yen Stablecoins & Tokenization Opportunities19:58 – Offshore Stablecoin Issuance21:09 – Institutional vs Retail Market Access

How did Japan become a leader in stablecoin infrastructure—and what role could JPY-backed stablecoins play in the future of global finance?Seihaku Yoshida, Founder and CEO of Hashport, joins Bitcoin.com News to share insights from the frontlines of Japan's evolving crypto ecosystem. From launching during the crypto winter to building one of the country's largest stablecoin payment platforms, Seihaku explains why regulation, innovation, and timing all matter.In this episode, we explore Japan's approach to crypto policy, the rise of stablecoin adoption, and how emerging technologies like AI could reshape how digital currencies are used.If you're curious about stablecoins, global crypto infrastructure, and where the industry is heading next, this conversation offers a unique perspective from Japan.⏱️ Chapters:00:34 – Starting the Company01:21 – Background & Experience03:26 – Challenges in 201805:15 – Consulting & Early Crypto Projects07:00 – Hashport's Current Focus09:16 – Transition to Wallet Infrastructure11:05 – Japan Expo Experience13:02 – Strategies & Collaborations16:31 – Japanese Crypto Users21:16 – Future Opportunities26:23 – Japan's Regulatory Environment29:00 – The Role of Stablecoins

What is holding blockchain performance back?In this episode, Annabelle Huang, CEO of Altius Labs, discusses crypto scalability, execution-layer bottlenecks, and the growing demand for high-performance blockchain infrastructure. The conversation explores app chains, onchain trading, decentralized finance (DeFi), and how new market players are shifting expectations around speed and efficiency.Topics include crypto infrastructure, blockchain scalability, execution performance, modular architecture, DeFi trading, and institutional adoption.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction and Scaling Discussion00:17 - Interview with Annabel Wong01:09 - Thoughts on Digital Asset Summit (DAS)02:10 - Tokenization and Infrastructure Insights03:15 - Privacy and Compliance in Blockchain05:21 - Altius Labs' Focus and Strategy08:23 - Fintech and Enterprise Interest10:05 - Infrastructure Development Trends13:31 - Privacy Solutions and Challenges16:37 - Market Trends and Scalability19:54 - Scalability and Decentralization22:27 - Institutional Interest and Market Activity26:58 - Altius Labs' Roadmap and Future Plans

Gary Liu, co-founder of Terminal 3, breaks down why crypto isn't dying—but evolving into a more mature financial system.In this episode, we explore the rise of stablecoins, the role of AI in enterprise environments, and the growing importance of security and governance for AI agents. Gary also shares insights on how agent-to-agent payments could reshape digital finance, and why stablecoins may become the backbone of this emerging economy.We also discuss Japan's role in the global crypto ecosystem and what it signals for broader adoption.Topics include: stablecoins, AI security, crypto adoption, digital payments, Web3 infrastructure, and the future of finance.

Are AI agents about to replace traditional software—and even jobs?In this episode, Yat Siu, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Animoca Brands, explains how autonomous AI agents are creating a new economy where anyone can build, automate, and monetize digital tasks in minutes.From earning $125,000 with a single agent to building over 1,000 AI-powered skills, this conversation explores how AI is transforming software, work, and the future of the internet.If you're interested in artificial intelligence, crypto, Web3, or the future of work, this episode breaks down what's coming next—and how you can get started.Topics covered:- AI agents vs traditional software and search tools- How AI agents are changing jobs and productivity- Real-world earnings: $125K from a single AI agent- The rise of the AI agent economy and skill marketplaces- How AI agents learn, improve, and scale- Building custom tools in minutes (no coding required)- Practical use cases for everyday users and businessesRecorded in Tokyo, Japan during cherry blossom season.Follow Bitcoin.com News for more insights on AI, crypto, and Web3: https://x.com/BTCTN⏱️ Chapters:00:00 Intro & Opening00:30 Animoca Minds Update: 1,000+ Skills Built02:00 Yat Siu's Personal Agent Evolution: 200 Agents Running03:20 One Agent Learning & Self-Replication05:00 Real Money: $125,000 with a Single Agent07:30 AI Agents vs. Search Tools09:00 The Mental Framing: Think of It as Hiring11:15 The Agent Economy & Marketplace12:00 Pricing & The Future14:30 Practical Applications & Closing

Mel Mattison joins Alex Richardson to break down the biggest forces shaping today's global economy—Bitcoin, inflation, war, and the future of the U.S. financial system.In this episode, they discuss the economic impact of geopolitical tensions, including the Iran crisis, and how the world is shifting toward a multipolar system. Mel explains why rising U.S. deficits and persistent inflation could reshape markets—and what it means for investors.They also explore Bitcoin's long-term role, gold as a hedge, and why traditional portfolio strategies may no longer be effective in this new macro environment.Topics include: Bitcoin adoption, inflation trends, U.S. debt crisis, global markets, asset allocation, and the future of money.Chapters:00:00 Market Predictions and Economic Outlook03:11 Geopolitical Tensions and Their Economic Impact05:59 The Shift to a Multipolar World09:12 Bitcoin's Resilience and Future Potential12:05 U.S. Fiscal Situation and Inflationary Pressures18:05 Reconsidering Asset Allocation Strategies24:28 Inflation and Asset Valuation Dynamics26:55 The Promise of Latin American Markets31:42 The Debate on Affordability and Asset Price Inflation37:48 Wage Growth and Economic Stability40:12 The Role of Bitcoin and Digital Assets44:23 Exploring the Themes of 'QUOZ'

It started in a one-bedroom apartment. Then 400 people showed up — and everything changed.In this episode, Tobias Bauer (TBV) shares how *The Best Event (TBE)* scaled to 53,000 attendees in 2025 — and why most crypto events fail.A deep dive into what actually drives deals in Web3: networking, data, and experience.

What's really happening in APAC's crypto scene?In this episode, Willy Wu dives into the latest trends shaping the region—from China's early meme coin activity to Japan's explosive 5x growth in Q1. We also unpack how product innovation is driving real-world Web3 adoption and making crypto more accessible for everyday users.Timestamps:00:00 Intro: Bitget Wallet & Willy Wu02:56 Willy Wu's crypto journey05:53 Stablecoins in APAC09:10 User behavior in crypto trading12:10 Inside Bitget Wallet features15:06 Making crypto simple for everyone17:56 AI & the future of UX21:03 Japan's adoption of Bitget Wallet23:50 The evolving APAC crypto landscape27:03 What's next for Japan?Tune in to understand where crypto in Asia is headed next

Allen Ng, Co-Founder & CEO of Everest Venture Group (EVG), joins us to break down why Hong Kong has emerged as Asia's leading crypto hub in 2026.From launching startups in college to working on venture deals later acquired by Amazon, Allen's journey spans the early days of tech to the rise of crypto. Since entering the space during the 2017 ICO era, he has built EVG into a 200-person firm delivering 400+ smart contract audits annually across major blockchain networks.In this conversation, we explore how Asia's crypto landscape has evolved — and why Hong Kong is now at the center of it.Allen shares insights on:- The shift from the ICO era to today's institutional crypto landscape- How Hong Kong overtook Singapore as Asia's top crypto hub- The key differences between Hong Kong's “bottom-up” ecosystem and Singapore's “top-down” approach- Why talent and execution matter more than regulation- How Hong Kong connects to China's vast engineering talent pool- Emerging markets like Vietnam and their growing crypto adoption- What founders should consider when choosing where to build in AsiaThis is a grounded, experience-driven discussion on the realities of building in crypto — based on over a decade of firsthand experience in the industry.

Is Bitcoin about to crash again… or is the bottom finally in?Top market technician Katie Stockton (CMT) joins Bitcoin.com News to break down what's REALLY happening with BTC — and why this current rally might not mean what you think.From critical support levels to hidden technical signals, this interview reveals what smart money is watching right now.In This Video:- Is Bitcoin's bear market secretly still active?- The truth about BTC's “basing phase”- MACD signal that could predict the next big move- Why $58K is a crucial level- ETH vs BTC — which one leads the market now?- Are ETFs helping… or making things worse?Key Insights:- Short-term bounce ≠ long-term reversal- Ethereum offers bigger upside — but higher risk- ETFs are accelerating volatility- The ETH/BTC ratio may reveal where the market is heading⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 Bitcoin Market Overview02:59 Katie Stockton's Background06:04 Technical Analysis in Crypto08:50 Market Sentiment Insights11:50 Basing Phases Explained14:55 ETF Impact on Bitcoin17:50 Bitcoin vs Ethereum21:10 Risk Appetite & Correlations23:50 What's Next for Bitcoin?

MetaPlanet bought Bitcoin at $65K—and saw a 5,000% increase in Bitcoin per share, becoming Japan's top-performing public company.But the journey wasn't easy. Think multiple 70% drawdowns, rapid market cycles, and unwavering conviction.In this episode, Dylan LeClair (Director of Bitcoin Strategy at MetaPlanet) joins David Sencil from the Japan Bitcoin Future Forum to break down the strategy behind the numbers—and what could drive the next Bitcoin bull run.We cover:• Why Bitcoin per share matters more than stock price• Navigating extreme volatility as a Bitcoin treasury company• How STRC is opening the door for institutional BTC exposure• Why most global capital still can't access Bitcoin• What could trigger the next major bull cycleA deep dive into how institutions are positioning for Bitcoin's future.Filmed at the Japan Bitcoin Future Forum.Timestamps:00:00 Bitcoin's Price Dynamics and Market Perception02:59 Sailor's Strategy and the Role of STRC06:13 MetaPlanet's Vision and Shareholder Engagement09:06 Catalysts for the Next Bitcoin Bull Market11:48 The Dual Role of Host and Guest

“While most people see a Bitcoin downturn, others see opportunity.In this episode, Samson Mow explains why this market might be ‘too good to be true' — especially for big players.”In this episode, Jan3 CEO Samson Mow joins David Sencil to explain why the current downturn may not last — and why institutional demand could be stronger than ever.With companies like Strategy and MetaPlanet buying more Bitcoin than miners produce daily, Samson argues this market phase might be a rare window of opportunity for large-scale investors.Recorded in Japan, this conversation dives into the future of Bitcoin — from breaking market cycles to global adoption at the nation-state level.What you'll learn in this episode:- Why the traditional four-year Bitcoin cycle may be breaking down- How JAN3 is working directly with governments on Bitcoin adoption- What Production Ready is and why a security-hardened Bitcoin client matters- Why quantum computing may not be a real threat to Bitcoin- The current state of Bitcoin adoption in Japan and MetaPlanet's roleSamson Mow is the CEO of Jan3, focused on accelerating nation-state Bitcoin adoption and building tools like Aqua Wallet. He previously contributed to El Salvador's Bitcoin strategy.

CCE.Cash is a decentralized finance (DeFi) technology provider specialized in high-performance, non-custodial cryptocurrency exchange solutions. At the core of CCE.Cash is a proprietary, fully automated trading engine engineered to eliminate the friction of traditional exchanges. By removing the need for manual oversight and mandatory registrations, CCE.Cash provides an instantaneous "send-and-receive" workflow.In the rapidly shifting landscape of decentralized finance, the transition from complex, high-friction trading to seamless automation is often driven by those who understand the deepest layers of the stack. Michael Jonas, the Chief Blockchain Architect of CCE.Cash, is one such figure. In a recent interview, Jonas shared the journey of a career built on "digital trust," moving from a decade of traditional software development at tech giants to a PhD in Computer Science specializing in distributed systems and cryptography. For Jonas, the leap into blockchain in 2020 wasn't a pivot, but a natural progression toward solving the ultimate engineering challenge: how to build systems that work without a central authority.At the heart of the conversation is the mission of CCE.Cash, a platform designed to dismantle the barriers of traditional exchanges. Jonas advocates for a "privacy-first" model where registration and identity verification are discarded in favor of user autonomy. The platform's exchange process is stripped down to its most functional form: users select their pair, provide a wallet address, and send their funds to a generated deposit address. From there, the system takes over. By utilizing automated protocols that wait for necessary network confirmations, CCE.Cash ensures that the exchange is finalized and sent directly to the user's wallet without the funds ever sitting in a custodial account longer than necessary.The technical reality of "instant" trading, however, is far from simple. Jonas highlights the immense difficulty of engineering a system that can handle "edge cases" without human oversight. In a world of network congestion, sudden gas fee spikes, or users accidentally sending the wrong amount, the code must be the ultimate arbiter. Every possible failure scenario must be pre-calculated and handled by the exchange engine to ensure no funds are ever "stuck." This reliability is further complicated by cross-chain compatibility, where the system must simultaneously speak the "languages" of different blockchains, each with its own unique confirmation times and rules.Jonas credits much of the platform's resilience to his academic background. His doctoral research on distributed systems—specifically how nodes reach agreement without a central leader—is the blueprint for the CCE.Cash architecture. This "distributed mindset" led to a strictly non-custodial design, removing the central point of failure that has plagued many high-profile exchange collapses in the past. By combining this with cryptographic verification, the platform ensures every swap is verified on-chain before funds are released, balancing high-level security with the speed users demand.As the platform scales to handle higher trading volumes, Jonas points to a modular infrastructure and internal liquidity management as the keys to success. By decoupling different parts of the platform, a surge in Bitcoin traffic, for example, won't slow down an Ethereum swap. Looking toward the next two to three years, Jonas sees a future where automated trading becomes the industry standard. His vision for CCE.Cash involves expanding network support to every asset a user might want to swap while maintaining a fierce commitment to privacy. In an era of evolving regulations, Jonas remains dedicated to a simple philosophy: provide a service that is effortless for the user, but built on a foundation of rigorous, academic-grade security.

“They stop calling it a scam the moment they use a wallet.”In this episode, David Sencil speaks with Dr. Johnny Ng, Hong Kong Legislative Council member, entrepreneur, and PhD in computer science, about what truly drives Bitcoin and cryptocurrency adoption.Dr. Ng shares how direct user experience — not technical explanation — is the key to converting crypto skeptics, based on his journey from early doubt to policy-level engagement.The conversation also explores Hong Kong's evolving role as a global crypto hub, including why pandemic-era policies — rather than geopolitical factors — led to the relocation of crypto companies, and how the region compares to other major hubs like Singapore, Korea, and Japan.Key topics include:- Bitcoin adoption and user experience- Crypto regulation and policymaking- Hong Kong's financial infrastructure and digital assets strategy- Tokenization and the future of real-world assets on blockchain- The competitive landscape of crypto hubs in AsiaThis episode is ideal for listeners interested in Bitcoin, blockchain technology, crypto policy, fintech innovation, and global digital asset trends.

In this conversation with Bitcoin.com News, WeChange CEO Rob Tökölyi shares why he pivoted from 16 years in traditional currency exchange to building the future of crypto on-ramps. From surviving the regulatory gauntlet in Europe to making self-custody as simple as online banking, Robi discusses the real barriers to crypto adoption—and why stablecoins, not Bitcoin headlines, represent the everyday transformation ahead.Guest: Robert Tökölyi, CEO of WeChangeHost: David SencilRecorded: March 11, 2026In this conversation:- His path from currency exchange entrepreneur to WeChange founder- How non-custodial fiat-to-crypto on-ramps work (and why they're different)- Why self-custody adoption requires better UX, not more tech-savvy users- The regulatory double-bind: MiCA, the Bank of England, and why startups face a compliance arms race- Stablecoins vs. Bitcoin: which will drive real adoption?- Why "crypto selling out to TradFi" is really about market sentiment, not fundamentalsAbout WeChange:WeChange is a global, non-custodial fiat-to-crypto on-ramp and off-ramp platform headquartered in Budapest, Hungary. In one transaction, users move money from their bank account directly to their crypto wallet with a flat 2.5% fee—no hidden charges, no intermediate steps. Unlike custodial exchanges, WeChange never holds user funds or keys, preserving the sovereignty that makes crypto revolutionary.Links:- Website: https://wechange.com/ - Twitter: @wechangeappChapters:00:00 - Introduction to Crypto00:23 - Appreciation and Introduction 00:36 - Robert's Background 01:28 - Transition to Crypto02:48 - Challenges in Currency Exchange 04:15 - Introduction to Crypto 05:30 - Crypto and Regulation 07:13 - Introduction to WeChange 10:02 - Currency Exchange Process 11:46 - Simplifying Onboarding 13:15 - Bank Transfers and Delays 15:24 - Self-Custody Adoption 17:21 - Importance of Self-Custody 18:13 - Global Expansion Challenges 20:08 - Regulation and Compliance 22:17 - Thoughts on MICA 23:20 - Regulation Favoring Incumbents 25:11 - Future of Crypto 27:31 - Emotional Impact of Crypto 30:27 - Excitement for Stablecoins 31:21 - USD Dominance in Stablecoins 33:17 - Hungary's Perspective on Stablecoins 34:55 - Closing Remarks#Crypto #Bitcoin #Stablecoins #CryptoRegulation #SelfCustody