Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll

US crypto bulishness – and state actors entering the stablecoin space August flew by—and so did crypto. In this BFRR news special, Michael and Jonas welcome Nadine from Particular for an institutional tour of markets, policy, and stablecoin surge. She sketches Particular’s “Moody’s for digital assets” approach—rating asset-backed tokens from fiat- and MMF-backed stablecoins to gold—then we dive into the month’s moves. Markets first: total crypto market cap hovered around \$4T and briefly set a \$4.2T ATH. Bitcoin hit a fresh high mid-August yet closed slightly lower—steady, dominant, “boring” in the best way. Ether rallied ~20% with an ATH, a comeback from sub-\$2k last year. In policy, the U.S. flipped the script. We unpack the White House’s 160-page roadmap urging pro-innovation, a larger CFTC role, and clearer taxes; Trump’s push to enable crypto in 401(k)s—and the fiduciary frictions that could still bottleneck adoption; Commissioner Hester Peirce’s privacy-first speech; and the Fed’s retreat from “novel activities” oversight as Vice Chair Bowman calls for hands-on learning. Then: 2025, the year of stablecoins. With MiCA live and U.S. rules taking shape, issuance is exploding—PSPs (Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Stripe), commerce giants, and banks circling. We debate fragmentation versus consolidation: why network effects, distribution, and regulatory moats mean “winner takes most” by currency and region—even as new state actors (hello, Wyoming’s coin) and yield-bearing designs add complexity. Expect consolidation, not monoculture. On infrastructure, Circle’s ARK enters: a purpose-built, EVM-compatible L1 with USDC as native gas, integrated FX, sub-second finality, and opt-in privacy—vertical integration for institutional finance while staying multi-chain. Plus: Europe’s take, cash’s resilience, and three “knowledge bites” to keep you sharp. Subscribe to Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll, join our Telegram community, and get Europe’s perspective on digital money. Disclaimer: Views are personal, not financial advice. Do your own research! Knowledge Bite Jonas: ECB Paper on cash](https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/economic-bulletin/articles/2025/html/ecb.ebart202505_03~d74cb56069.en.html) [https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/economic-bulletin/articles/2025/html/ecb.ebart202505_03~d74cb56069.en.html]) Knowledge Bite Nadine: a16z article on blockchain for Tradi [https://a16zcrypto.com/posts/article/blockchains-banks-asset-managers-fintechs/] Knowledge Bite Michael: New York Times article on US crypto report [https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/30/technology/white-house-crypto.html ] Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website [https://www.bfrr.de/] Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel [https://t.me/+jA3nMkERPtc5YjQ0] ---------------------------------------- Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here [https://relai.ch/rock/]. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here [https://fountain.fm/show/wNv0vSPWzu8Gh7bZTorB] Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here [https://www.bfrr.de/disclaimer/] ---------------------------------------- All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!

A deep dive into the first, German BaFin regulated Euro Stablecoin In this special episode of Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll (BFRR), we sit down with Alex Höptner, CEO of AllUnity, one of Europe’s most ambitious crypto ventures and the issuer of the first BaFin-regulated Euro stablecoin. Recorded in Frankfurt at AllUnity’s offices, this in-person conversation dives deep into the intersection of traditional finance, digital assets, and the future of European money on-chain. Alex takes us on a fascinating journey through his career: from a long tenure at Deutsche Börse, to leading Börse Stuttgart, pioneering retail crypto products like the Bison app, then becoming CEO of BitMEX, and now driving AllUnity’s mission to bring a regulated Euro stablecoin to market. He reflects on the evolution of crypto regulation, the lessons learned from bridging traditional finance with digital assets, and why solving the double-spending problem fundamentally reshapes the future of payments. Together, we explore the strategic vision behind AllUnity’s EuroAU: why the Euro stablecoin market is still in its infancy, why its real competition is not USDT or USDC but rather traditional fiat payments, and how a consortium of heavyweights like DWS, Flow Traders, and Galaxy Digital builds trust, scale, and credibility. We also unpack the geopolitics of stablecoins, the European response to US and Chinese initiatives, and why sovereignty in digital money is becoming a central issue for Europe. From cross-border payments to corporate treasury use cases, from regulatory clarity under MiCA to the role of DeFi, Alex shares why stablecoins are not just about crypto speculation but about powering the real economy. If you want to understand how the Euro can compete on a global scale in the digital asset era, this episode is for you. AllUnity [https://allunity.com/] Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website [https://www.bfrr.de/] Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel [https://t.me/+jA3nMkERPtc5YjQ0] ---------------------------------------- Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here [https://relai.ch/rock/]. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here [https://fountain.fm/show/wNv0vSPWzu8Gh7bZTorB] Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here [https://www.bfrr.de/disclaimer/] ---------------------------------------- All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!

A deep dive into Bitcoin fraud with industry expert Daniel Winkelhammer 🎧 Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll – Live from Electric Love Festival 2025 This episode comes with a twist: we’re recording from one of Europe’s biggest electronic dance music festivals, the Electric Love Festival 2025. Amid the beats and energy of the crowd, we dive into one of the most pressing challenges in the crypto industry today—crypto fraud, with a special focus on Bitcoin. Our guest is Daniel Winkelhammer, founder and CEO of 21bitcoin, who brings both a deeply personal journey into the world of technology and an insider’s perspective from running one of Europe’s fastest-growing Bitcoin platforms. Born and raised in Salzburg, Daniel’s story began with tinkering on family computers, evolved through studies in informatics and business informatics, and eventually led him from corporate consultancy at Allianz and Porsche Bank to a full-time entrepreneurial path in Bitcoin. Together we unpack the realities of crypto fraud: how scammers exploit Bitcoin’s irreversible transactions, why newcomers are particularly vulnerable, and how fraudsters build fake relationships to trick victims into sending funds. Daniel shares extreme real-world cases—like clients losing six-figure sums despite repeated warnings—and explains why fraud in crypto is both different from, and more dangerous than, traditional financial scams. The conversation goes further: • Why fraudsters are attracted to Bitcoin, and why Bitcoin’s transparency still makes it harder to commit crime long-term. • How 21bitcoin protects its 80,000+ retail investors across 30 countries with transaction monitoring, customer education, and strict custody safeguards. • The challenges of preparing for institutional clients under MiCA licensing. • Why Daniel and his team remain Bitcoin-only, both for ideological and strategic reasons. Amid the festival atmosphere, we return to the essentials: building trust, protecting investors, and ensuring Bitcoin adoption remains safe and sustainable. Daniel’s key advice? Educate yourself, stay patient, and think long-term. 21bitcoin [https://21bitcoin.app/] Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website [https://www.bfrr.de/] Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel [https://t.me/+jA3nMkERPtc5YjQ0] ---------------------------------------- Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here [https://relai.ch/rock/]. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here [https://fountain.fm/show/wNv0vSPWzu8Gh7bZTorB] Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here [https://www.bfrr.de/disclaimer/] ---------------------------------------- All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!

Deep Dive into the Security Token industry in Germany In this episode of Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll, we dive deep into Germany’s pioneering role in tokenized securities under the Electronic Securities Act. Host Manuel welcomes Marion Spielmann (DecaBank) and Benjamin Schaub (Intas) for a comprehensive update on how blockchain is transforming capital markets. We explore how Germany’s legal framework enables native blockchain issuance of bonds, shares, and funds — without paper certificates — and the role of BaFin licensing for crypto securities registrars. Marion and Benjamin share insights from the Digital Asset Monitor, their semi-annual market report developed with DecaBank, Intas, Frankfurt School Blockchain Center, and WM Datenservice, which tracks issuance volumes, technologies used, and regulatory developments. Topics include: • Why Germany is ahead with regulated tokenized securities. • Market leaders like Cashlink, Smart Registry, and DecaBank. • The dominance of public blockchains (Polygon, Avalanche) vs. private networks in light of Basel capital requirements. • Shifts in issuance volume post-ECB blockchain settlement trials. • The rise of secondary markets through the DLT Pilot Regime and OTC deals. • How upcoming ECB settlement solutions, wholesale CBDC, stablecoins, and commercial bank money tokens could shape the future. We also discuss the biggest hurdles: regulatory clarity on capital requirements for public vs. permissioned blockchains, investor adoption, and liquidity. With Europe holding a first-mover advantage, our guests stress the urgency of moving from trials to live operations before being overtaken by other jurisdictions. If you want a sharp, insider’s view on tokenized securities, market data, and the next steps for digital finance in Germany and Europe, this episode is your guide. Digital Asset Monitor in English [https://www.deka.de/site/dekade_deka-gruppe_site/get/params_E-1175618751/23342398/Deka_Digital_Asset_Monitor-H1_2025-EnglishVersion.pdf] Digital Asset Monitor in German [https://www.deka.de/site/dekade_deka-gruppe_site/get/params_E684506922/23267530/250630%20Deka%20Digital%20Asset%20Monitor%20HJ1%202025.pdf] Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website [https://www.bfrr.de/] Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel [https://t.me/+jA3nMkERPtc5YjQ0] ---------------------------------------- Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here [https://relai.ch/rock/]. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here [https://fountain.fm/show/wNv0vSPWzu8Gh7bZTorB] Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here [https://www.bfrr.de/disclaimer/] ---------------------------------------- All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!

Ether to new highs, while Coinbase announces super app and Trump signs Genius Act. In this monthly news edition of Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock’n’Roll, Jonas is joined by Alex, Michi, and Stefan to unpack the most important developments in crypto, digital money, and digital assets from July. Key topics include: 🚀 Ethereum’s comeback – A 50% price increase and a major narrative shift position ETH as “digital oil.” Institutional interest surges with billions in ETF inflows and companies like EtherMachine mirroring the MicroStrategy playbook. 📈 Bitcoin’s strong month – BTC hits new all-time highs with increasing corporate adoption. Over 200 companies now hold Bitcoin on their balance sheets. Bitcoin ETFs reach $115B AUM. 💸 Stablecoins & Regulation – The US passed the GENIUS Act, establishing a regulatory framework for USD stablecoins. We explore its differences to the EU’s MiCA, the political motivations behind it, and its impact on issuers like Amazon and X. Plus: Germany’s AllUnity launches the first MiCA-compliant euro stablecoin. 🏦 Tokenized Equities – Robinhood and eToro launch tokenized stock trading, targeting crypto-native retail investors. Are tokenized stocks the next step in financial dollarization? 📱 Coinbase’s Transformation – Coinbase unveils its new “everything app,” acquires token launch platform Liquifi, and partners with Perplexity AI – signaling a serious shift toward a fintech platform strategy. 🏛 ECB’s Wholesale CBDC Plans – The ECB reveals two new projects: “Ponturo” (short-term) and “Apia” (long-term), exploring how to settle tokenized assets with central bank money on DLT. Plus, we share new tools and reads in our monthly “Knowledge Bites” segment — including insights from the ECB, The Economist, and a new crypto treasury tracker. 🎧 Subscribe now and stay ahead of the curve with Europe’s perspective on digital finance. Episode on Genius Act vs MiCAR [https://bfrr.info/genius-act-vs-micar-and-what-it-means-for-europe/] FAZ article on Genius Act vs MiCAR (German) [https://www.faz.net/pro/digitalwirtschaft/transformation/usa-regulieren-erstmals-stablecoins-eu-fehlt-trotz-micar-der-politische-wille-110600259.html] FAZ article on Genius Act vs MiCAR (English) [https://alexanderbechtel.com/the-us-regulates-stablecoins-for-the-first-time-what-now-europe/] Call for expressions of interest in participating in the Pontes contact group [https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/intro/news/html/ecb.mipnews250715.en.html?utm_source=mip_linkedin&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=250716_callforpontes] Knowledge Bite Jonas: Crypto Tracker [https://crypto-treasury-tracker.streamlit.app/] Knowledge Bite Alex: ECB blog post by Juergen Schaaf [https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/blog/date/2025/html/ecb.blog20250728~e6cb3cf8b5.en.html] Knowledge Bite Michael: Economis article “The world should follow Trump’s lead on stablecoins” [https://www.economist.com/leaders/2025/07/24/the-world-should-follow-trumps-lead-on-stablecoins] Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Website [https://www.bfrr.de/] Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll Telegram Channel [https://t.me/+jA3nMkERPtc5YjQ0] ---------------------------------------- Relai*: Buy Bitcoin with Relai – you can do a one-time purchase or savings plan: Click here [https://relai.ch/rock/]. Use the referral code "ROCK" to reduce transaction fees by 0.1% while supporting Bitcoin, Fiat & Rock'n'Roll. Value4Value Podcast Streaming: Support our podcast by listening to our episodes on the Fountain Podcast App. This way, if you wish, you can support us "Value4Value" while listening to the podcast. You can find us on the Fountain Podcast App here: Click here [https://fountain.fm/show/wNv0vSPWzu8Gh7bZTorB] Disclaimer: The content of this podcast reflects the private opinions of the hosts, serves exclusively for general information purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always remember: Do your own research - inform yourself before making any investment decisions, such as buying Bitcoin. First try to understand what Bitcoin is and how to store it. This podcast does not provide financial advice. Note that the co-hosts might be invested in crypto assets. Read more on our website: Click here [https://www.bfrr.de/disclaimer/] ---------------------------------------- All links marked with "*" are affiliate links. If you use these links for purchase, the podcast receives a small share of the revenue without any additional costs to you. On the contrary, affiliate links often include discount promotions, so you can even save money. We would appreciate it if you use these links to support us. Thank you very much!