Uncensored Crypto podcast: episode 3 review

The Uncensored Crypto podcast delivers straight-talk about Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, Web3, the blockchain, DeFi, NFTs, and more. Host Michael Hearne interviews the disruptors at the forefront of the crypto revolution who are shaping our economic, financial, and political future. 

In the latest episode of the Uncensored Crypto podcast, our CEO, Michael Hearne, speaks with Alex Brammer. Alex Brammer is the VP of Business Development at Luxor Tech, a company focused on building infrastructure for digital assets. Luxor is also well-known for its crypto mining pool, as well as other products and services.

The topic of crypto mining is covered a lot in Uncensored Crypto podcast episodes. Be sure to also check out the Episode 4, where Fred Thiel also offers insights regarding the future of Bitcoin mining. 

The rise of ASIC financing

One of the first things discussed is that Bitcoin recently hit new all-time highs, and Brammer points out that the growth in the cryptocurrency markets continues to amaze him. He points out that it’s not just about new companies, it’s about new deal structures and new ways to access capital, as well.

He also brings up ASIC financing concerning crypto mining companies.

Michael points out that he hasn’t heard much about ASIC financing. Alex points out that even in 2021, it can be pretty tricky for Bitcoin mining startups to obtain financing. It is difficult for some crypto companies to get insurance policies, or even a bank account, because banks are often reluctant to deal with Bitcoin-related companies in general.  

How investing and analyzing have changed 

Michael asks if an everyday retail investor can invest in Luxor Tech. Brammer points out that the company is post-Series A, as it already raised a $5 million Series A funding round led by NYDIG. Brammer admits that investors may need to be “accredited” to be involved at this point, since many crypto mining startups are funded by institutional investors at a certain level.

Alex Brammer also adds that he’s glad that crypto analysts ask more questions and get more details regarding the crypto mining space. These days, experts are asking about the cost of power, hash rates, immersive cooling, what types of miners they are choosing, and more. Brammer feels like this will lead to more accurate valuations in the crypto space, and that this is a huge step in the right direction.

The future global reserve currency

One of the most interesting parts of this Uncensored Crypto podcast episode is when the two begin talking about Bitcoin as a global reserve currency. Alex Brammer brings up the fact that the United States used to operate under the Bretton Woods system, where gold was the basis for the dollar. Brammer points out that it seems like there are inflation headlines everywhere these days.

Brammer points out that Satoshi Nakamoto made it clear that Bitcoin was created partially because currencies can be debased and manipulated in the traditional fiat monetary system. He believes that Bitcoin was literally designed to be the global reserve currency, and that it was only inevitable, barring a “black swan” event.

Michael points out that he once read a book called The Perpetual Traveler, and its five flag theory helped him think differently about the world. He believes that Bitcoin is part of the sixth flag—digital—that helps offer a new level of financial freedom.

Alex agrees, and also points out that it is impossible to truly “ban” Bitcoin, and that it ultimately is a tool for financial sovereignty. Alex Brammer puts it quite simply: “If you’re not long Bitcoin, you should probably get long.”

From pessimistic to hopeful

Alex Brammer refers to the fact that his time in the military made him pessimistic about the world. He even recognizes how insane it sounds, but says: “Bitcoin legitimately gave me hope for the future, in a way that is sometimes hard to put into words.” 

He realizes that it sounds contrived, but he genuinely means that it gives him hope for civilization. Brammer feels like if you truly explore some of humanity’s biggest problems, they often have a lot to do with misaligned incentives.

Brammer is not just optimistic; he’s “deeply hopeful” about the future. He knows that it will be a “bumpy ride,” but stresses that the people in this space who are building, educating, and advocating for crypto are critical. Lastly, he urges crypto enthusiasts to keep talking to your “boomer dads” and “Luddite brothers” about Bitcoin and blockchain.