Bitcoin has dominated headlines, sparked political debates, and divided opinions. Through all the noise, one fact remains: it’s been one of the best-performing asset classes of the past decade—but for many, the real significance of this technology is still just starting to sink in.

In this episode of Object Subject Form, Simon sits down with Valko, friend, fellow CryptoPunk, and newly appointed Chief of Staff at World Liberty Financial—a decentralized finance platform launched in 2024 to simplify access to digital assets and crypto-backed financial tools.

Known for his unwavering conviction in blockchain technology, Valko has gone all in on crypto—an investment stance most financial advisors would call extreme. But what drives this level of conviction? And what lessons can be drawn from it as Bitcoin continues to outperform nearly every traditional asset class over the past decade?

Together, they break down the fundamental reasons why Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies matter, why these technologies remain central to conversations about financial sovereignty and technological evolution, and how they may play a pivotal role in shaping the next decade of global economics.

Whether listeners are crypto-curious or already deep in the space, this conversation offers perspective on why it’s no longer a question if they should pay attention.

Disclaimer: This episode was recorded prior to Valko’s current role. The views expressed are his own and do not represent the views of his employer. Topics discussed are for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial advice. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

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Chapters

00:00 Bitcoin as the New Reserve Asset  

01:10 Introduction

02:19 Why Bitcoin and Crypto Matter Now  

04:19 Valko’s All In Crypto Philosophy  

06:10 Bitcoin as the Future of Digital Ownership  

09:24 Ethereum, NFTs, and Programmable Money  

13:14 Transparency, Trustlessness, and Privacy in Crypto  

16:16 Should You Stay Anonymous in the Space?  

19:22 Reputation: Online vs. Real Life  

22:13 Valko’s First Crypto Transactions and Early Days  

25:34 CryptoPunks and the Birth of Digital Identity  

31:15 Staying Informed in a Fast-Moving Space  

34:36 The Political Landscape of Crypto  

41:19 Is It Too Late to Get In? Advice for Newcomers  

45:50 Risk Management and Building Wealth  

50:10 The Rise of Meme Coins and Internet Culture  

54:34 Imagining a Future of Widespread Crypto Adoption  

58:30 The Impact of Crypto on Traditional Finance  

1:03:10 Bitcoin, AI, and Exponential Technologies  

1:05:40 CryptoPunks: Identity, Art, and Community  

1:12:13 What It Means to be a voice of leadership in Crypto  

1:18:01 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Valko  

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Connect with Valko on X:

https://x.com/valko

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Specs News (On pause due to Valko’s new position at World Liberty Financial):

https://www.specs.news/

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World Liberty Financial:

https://www.worldlibertyfinancial.com/

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@Punk6529 TAP Thread

https://x.com/punk6529/status/1701623475725533524?s=46

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CryptoPunks:

https://cryptopunks.app/

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Learn more about CryptoPunks on the Brand Hub:

https://hub.cryptopunks.app/

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Follow CryptoPunks on X:

https://x.com/cryptopunksnfts

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Connect with simon:

https://zaap.bio/simonclowes