This episode, recorded on November 25, 2014, covers several key developments in the cryptocurrency and tech world, maintaining the podcast's characteristic blend of news and commentary.
Main Topics Discussed:
* Western Union Lawsuit: Western Union was criticized for using copyright claims to take down a Bitcoin parody advertisement, an action described as drawing more attention to the parody than it would have otherwise received.
* Australian Bitcoin Tax: A strong critique was leveled against Australia's attempt to classify and tax Bitcoin under the General Services Tax (GST), arguing that the internet is fundamentally different from older services like fax machines or CB radios.
* Butterfly Labs (BFL) Hearing: The episode covered a day-long hearing concerning BFL's future operations, with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) presenting arguments regarding the potential obsolescence of BFL's technology.
Key Quotes:
1. "The internet is not a CB radio, or a fax machine."
2. "Western Union is learning a lot about the internet today after using a copyright claim to take down a parody advertisement on Facebook."
3. "We're not in Kansas anymore."
People/Entities Mentioned:
* Western Union
* Butterfly Labs (BFL)
* Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
* Redditor
* Antenopolis (The voice criticizing Australia)
Bitcoin Price:
* Winkdex reported a last price of $379, a high of $391, and a low of $377.
* Lightcoin was noted at $3.55.