This episode provides a rapid-fire summary of major developments in the Bitcoin and regulatory space, focusing heavily on legal victories and institutional skepticism.
Summary:
The episode highlights the ruling by a federal appeals court declaring the NSA's massive surveillance database of US phone calls illegal. The speaker expresses strong opinions on the legal implications, calling for the arrest of program operators. On the exchange front, the focus is on ItBit, which launched America’s first NYDFS-approved Bitcoin exchange. While Goldman Sachs' investment in Circle is noted, the speaker dismisses its significance, arguing that Circle is merely a "Bitcoin company in name only" and that institutional involvement does not equate to genuine understanding of Bitcoin.
1) Main Topics Discussed:
* The federal appeals court ruling that the NSA's surveillance program is illegal.
* ItBit launching America's first NYDFS-approved Bitcoin exchange.
* Goldman Sachs investing in Circle (and the skepticism surrounding the investment).
* The general market movement of Bitcoin.
2) Key Quotes:
* "The NSA's phone call database is illegal and should be stopped immediately."
* "Goldman Sachs, investment in Bitcoin is newsworthy, but not significant."
* "Circle is a Bitcoin company in name only..."
3) People/Entities Mentioned:
* Edward Snowden
* Goldman Sachs
* ItBit
* Circle
* National Security Agency (NSA)
4) Bitcoin Price:
* Winkdex reported a last price of 237, a high of 238, and a low of 228.