Stephan Livera Podcast

In this conversation, Stephan Livera and James O'Beirne discuss the implications of quantum computing on Bitcoin, exploring skepticism towards the perceived threats, the current state of quantum research, and the potential responses from Bitcoin developers. They delve into proposed solutions, the role of institutions like NIST, and the challenges of Bitcoin protocol development. The discussion also touches on user experience, self-custody, and the future of Bitcoin adoption amidst evolving technological landscapes.
Takeaways:
🔸Quantum computing poses theoretical risks to Bitcoin, but practical threats are far off.
🔸Skepticism about quantum computing's immediate impact is prevalent among experts.
🔸Bitcoin developers have more pressing issues to address than quantum threats.
🔸Proposed solutions like BIP 360 could enhance Bitcoin's security regardless of quantum risks.
🔸NIST's push for post-quantum cryptography raises concerns about government influence.
🔸The academic and business interests in quantum computing may hype its urgency.
🔸Bitcoin's protocol development faces challenges due to a lack of strong leadership.
🔸User experience is crucial for Bitcoin adoption and self-custody.
🔸The future of Bitcoin may depend on how well it adapts to user needs and technological changes.
🔸Bitcoin remains a unique solution to fiat debasement and economic instability.
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Intro
(00:46) - What is the deal with quantum computing and Bitcoin?
(05:05) - Advancing progress in quantum computing
(09:43) - Is the quantum threat to Bitcoin around the corner? 
(11:57) - Quantum resistant schemes developed by Bitcoiners
(15:45) - NIST and diverse views on Post-quantum cryptography
(22:31) - The future of Bitcoin in a Post-quantum world
(29:45) - 'Matt Corallo Quantum Plan'
(34:08) - A modest version of the Big Blocker view
(38:41) - Covenants and Scaling Bitcoin
(43:35) - Comparing OP_TEMPLATEHASH & OP_CTV
(48:01) - The ‘Slow and Steady’ approach to Bitcoin development
(55:19) - What’s the next adoption pathway for Bitcoin?
(1:04:04) - AssumeUTXO, Utreexo & Floresta
(1:07:20) - Why are so few people running Bitcoin nodes?
(1:14:52) - Closing thoughts 
Links: 
https://x.com/jamesob 

https://ctv-csfs.com/ 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27Qs31E80cA 

Stephan Livera links:
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In this episode, Stephan Livera and Dhruv Patel, CEO of Arch Lending, discuss the current state of Bitcoin lending, market trends, and the unique products offered by Arch Lending. They explore the mechanics of Bitcoin-backed loans, risk management strategies for borrowers, and the importance of custody and security in the lending process. The conversation also touches on the future of Bitcoin lending, growth strategies, and the evolving landscape of financial products in the cryptocurrency space.
Takeaways:
🔸Bitcoin lending is gaining traction despite market volatility.
🔸Arch Lending offers flexible Bitcoin-backed loans with up to 60% LTV.
🔸Understanding the mechanics of Bitcoin loans is crucial for borrowers.
🔸Customized loan products cater to specific needs of clients.
🔸Risk management is essential when borrowing against Bitcoin.
🔸Arch Lending does not rehypothecate client collateral, ensuring security.
🔸The market for Bitcoin-backed loans is expected to grow significantly.
🔸Debt can be a powerful tool for wealth building if managed wisely.
🔸Interest rates for Bitcoin loans have decreased over time.
🔸Current market conditions may present safer borrowing opportunities.
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Intro
(01:22) - How does Arch Lending work?
(02:50) - What does Arch Lending offer? 
(05:15) - LTV conditions & specialised loan products
(09:20) - Risk-managed borrowing against Bitcoin
(14:20) - How does Arch Lending custody the Bitcoin?
(15:46) - Comparing various Bitcoin lending models
(19:46) - Thoughts on borrowing against Bitcoin ETFs
(21:37) - Capital providers for Arch Lending
(23:16) - Will Arch Lending provide Proof of Reserves? 
(24:34) - All-in-one Bitcoin financial services
(25:48) - Growth & future of Bitcoin lending
(28:08) - Who should NOT use Bitcoin lending services? 
(32:45) - Will TradFi offer similar Bitcoin lending products? 
(34:08) - Closing thoughts
Links: 
https://x.com/ArchLending 

https://archlending.com/ 

Stephan Livera links:
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In this episode, Stephan Livera and Matt Corallo discuss the implications of quantum computing on Bitcoin's security. They explore expert opinions on the timelines for quantum threats, the current stance of Bitcoin developers, and potential solutions for quantum resistance. Matt introduces his proposed plan for integrating quantum-resistant features into Bitcoin wallets, emphasizing the need for gradual adoption and community consensus. The conversation also touches on market dynamics, the role of seed phrases, and the importance of preparing for a future where quantum computing could pose a significant risk to Bitcoin.
Takeaways:
🔸Quantum computers are not an immediate threat to Bitcoin.
🔸Experts suggest a timeline of 10 to 25 years for quantum threats.
🔸Bitcoin developers have historically underestimated quantum risks.
🔸There is ongoing research into quantum-resistant solutions.
🔸Wallet adoption of new technologies is slow and challenging.
🔸The future Bitcoin community will make decisions on quantum security.
🔸Market dynamics will influence the value of quantum-vulnerable coins.
🔸Seed phrases provide a layer of security against quantum threats.
🔸The proposed quantum plan aims for minimal disruption to users.
🔸Preparation for quantum threats should start now, even if the risk is distant.
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Intro
(00:51) - Quantum computer’s breakthrough timelines
(03:38) - Are Bitcoin developers taking the quantum threat seriously?
(07:41) - Evaluating the quantum threat
(10:00) - The Matt Corallo Quantum Plan
(17:48) - Future community decisions on quantum security
(20:12) - Will Bitcoin need a soft fork? 
(23:30) - Market’s response to quantum threat 
(28:15) - The role of seed phrases in quantum security
(33:40) - Post quantum cryptographic schemes
(37:23) - Patoshi miner adapting to Q-Day
(43:25) - Which public cryptography scheme is most vulnerable? 
(50:20) - Closing thoughts 
Links: 
https://x.com/TheBlueMatt 

https://bluematt.bitcoin.ninja/ 

https://saveourwallets.org/ 

Stephan Livera links:
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In this episode, Stephan Livera interviews Jos Lazet from Blockrise, discussing the recent volatility in Bitcoin prices, the semi-custodial model of Blockrise, and the future of Bitcoin lending. They explore the implications of market movements, the importance of risk management in lending, and the evolving landscape of Bitcoin services. Joss shares insights on Blockrise's offerings, including asset management and lending, and emphasizes the need for user-friendly solutions in the Bitcoin space.
Takeaways:
🔸Bitcoin's volatility is expected to continue for several years.
🔸The semi-custodial model offers a balance between security and usability.
🔸Risk appetite is crucial when considering Bitcoin loans.
🔸Institutional adoption is necessary for Bitcoin's growth.
🔸Blockrise aims to provide transparent and user-friendly services.
🔸The lending market is evolving with new standards and players.
🔸Understanding liquidation points is essential for borrowers.
🔸The European banking system is efficient for fiat transactions.
🔸Blockrise focuses on a hybrid custody solution for clients.
🔸The future of Bitcoin lending will involve more innovative financial products.
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Intro
(01:00) - Bitcoin’s recent price volatility & ETFs role
(05:31) - What is Blockrise?
(08:08) - Semi-custodial model
(11:44) - How does Blockrise work?
(18:55) - Onboarding & user journey in Bitcoin custody  
(24:42) - Does Blockrise support stablecoins?
(28:34) - Fiat integration and future of stablecoins in Bitcoin lending
(32:21) - Insights from ‘Bitcoin Lending Standards’ report
(42:00) - Leveraged Bitcoin or Stay humble & stack sats? 
(47:27) - Loan terms, interest rates and fees
Links: 
https://x.com/jos_lazet 

http://blockrise.com 

https://www.blockrise.com/en/resources/the-bitcoin-lending-standards-2026-article 

Stephan Livera links:
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In this episode, Harsha Goli from Magnolia Financial discusses the launch of their Bitcoin-enabled banking services across the US, navigating regulatory challenges, and the importance of partnerships with banks. He emphasizes the need for better user experiences in Bitcoin transactions, the role of price oracles, and the implications of the Clarity Act on Bitcoin development. The conversation also touches on the tension between traditional banks and the crypto industry, the future of community banks, and innovations in Bitcoin technology. Harsha shares insights on potential use cases for Magnolia's services and the challenges of bridging the gap in Bitcoin adoption, while also addressing privacy concerns in Bitcoin transactions.
Takeaways:
🔸Magnolia Financial has launched Bitcoin-enabled banking services across all US states.
🔸The company aims to provide a better user experience in Bitcoin transactions.
🔸Partnerships with banks are crucial for navigating regulatory challenges.
🔸The Clarity Act is seen as a positive development for Bitcoin institutions.
🔸Stablecoins are currently dominating the financial landscape.
🔸Magnolia is focused on integrating financial services into Bitcoin applications.
🔸The future of community banks may involve adapting to crypto innovations.
🔸Innovations in Bitcoin technology, especially Layer 2 solutions, are promising.
🔸Privacy concerns in Bitcoin transactions are becoming increasingly complex.
🔸Harsha emphasizes the need for seamless money transfers in the Bitcoin ecosystem.
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Intro
(00:36) - Magnolia enabling Bitcoin-enabled banking
(03:10) - Regulatory hurdles in the US
(05:03) - Can Banks provide their own native Bitcoin rails?
(08:24) - Improving UX with Magnolia
(11:48) - Magnolia as Price Oracle in Bitcoin finance 
(13:35) - Magnolia's pricing and onboarding process
(17:10) - What is the impact of US regulations on Bitcoin development? 
(21:11) - CLARITY Act
(25:00) - Tension between Banks & Crypto
(28:01) - Community Banks and Crypto?
(29:31) - What is Harsha excited about in Bitcoin and its L2’s?
(32:08) - Use cases of Magnolia
(33:48) - Stable channels & Taproot assets
(38:10) - Increasing Bitcoin adoption?
(40:51) - Bitcoin privacy and financial scams
(46:58) - Closing thoughts on building with Magnolia
Links: 
https://x.com/arshbot 

https://x.com/magnolia_rails 

https://magnolia.financial/ 

Stephan Livera links:
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