Bits + Bips: Bitcoin Hits $75K as It Starts Catching Up to Gold - Unchained Recap

Podcast: Unchained

Published: 2026-03-18

Duration: 1 hr 2 min

What Happened

Bitcoin's value has surged to $75,000, drawing parallels with gold as a store of value. This increase is partly driven by a growing interest in the short gold, long Bitcoin trade, as discussed by Chris Perkins. He notes that crypto markets are showing resilience despite geopolitical tensions, like the ongoing conflict with Iran.

Chris Perkins attended the FIA Boca conference, highlighting the significance of derivatives in the crypto space. The conference saw participation from major exchanges and intermediaries, marking a resurgence of crypto presence. Perkins points out that prediction markets are facing challenges due to regulatory issues in the U.S., with both Democrats and Republicans expressing concerns.

Ram Alawalia and Austin Campbell discuss the geopolitical situation with Iran, noting its impact on global oil prices. Campbell emphasizes the strategic importance of controlling oil and uranium supplies in this conflict, suggesting that Trump's administration may have broader objectives linked to China. The ongoing conflict has already affected consumer prices, with gasoline reaching $8.50 in California.

The discussion shifts to the role of Ethereum and its foundation's recent publication. Austin Campbell critiques the Ethereum Foundation's stance on decentralization and self-sovereignty, arguing that the integration of real-world assets with smart contracts on Ethereum could lead to systemic risks. He suggests that the foundation's approach might not be suitable for all types of assets.

Chris Perkins defends the Ethereum Foundation, stating that its role is to steward the principles of the network rather than control it. He argues that Ethereum's decentralization is its primary moat, distinguishing it from other blockchains. Perkins believes that the responsibility for ensuring security and compliance lies with the developers building on the platform.

The episode concludes with a discussion on the future of blockchain technology, with Austin Campbell predicting that the chain most suitable for real-world assets may not yet exist. He also highlights the potential for a global version of the DTCC, emphasizing the need for collaboration among financial institutions to create a decentralized yet regulated ecosystem.

Key Insights