Why Bitcoin Will Take Over The World: Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong | Uncommon Knowledge

Recorded on March 13, 2024.
Despite a tumultuous and volatile marketplace; scandals, arrests, and bankruptcies at rival digital exchanges; and social issues disrupting his own company, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong is a devout believer in digital currencies and the power of the blockchain. In this interview, Armstrong describes how he co-founded Coinbase, explains the basics of how digital currencies work, and responds to criticisms of cryptocurrency from Warren Buffet and others.
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© 2024 by the Board of Trustees of Leland Stanford Junior University.

[@ConorChepenik]

The host did an incredible job showcasing both sides and engaging in fair debate with an open mind. Bravo

[@a.s.clifton544]

If anyone ha asked me the one subject that would never be discussed on Uncommon Knowledge, crypto would have headed the list. Peter Robinson is the best intellectual interviewer we have. He approaches this subject with the same skepticism people of my generation (I’m 64) expect. At the same time he injects an enthusiasm to be expected of our generation’s grandchildren. Well done, Peter.

[@Benjamin-fu5ij]

You hit the nail on the head. This is exactly what I was thinking, and I'm Gen Z.

[@NZEverydayInvestor]

Such a classy interviewing style. Articulate, polite, open…

[@madfish369]

I've had a Coinbase account for a few years, and knew of this guy just a little. But never heard him in depth. My respect for him has shot up big time. He's brilliant.

[@dbongo1]

I admire Brian's restraint. I could never be so diplomatic when talking about the Incompetent Congress or the Criminal Fed.

[@chrisklaeffling1]

That is the reason why he is a CEO

[@cheebug]

It’s cool watching people begin to understand bitcoin. I get to relive the excitement vicariously

[@EE-gy1kf]

BTC is the hardest and most pure form of money humanity has ever discovered.

[@PatchedBandit]

0.1 BTC is now worth 7,000 USD

[@thorarthur66ddz]

The reason Bitcoin has value is that it’s a decentralized network with its own bearer asset, meaning that it’s a scarce and transmittable money that is backed by energy and user-run nodes. It’s the world’s most decentralized and immutable database, and allows people to bring their money with them globally and send it around the world at the speed of light in a non-custodial way

[@jaredlopez2926]

Managers in corporations should stay out of politics, religion, etc. I love that Armstrong took a stance on that.

[@tonywright8342]

The best interview I have seen in regard to Bitcoin. Fantastic conversation. It has left me so much more knowledgeable and confident in Bitcoin.

[@shawnradke]

you should watch Robert Breedlove podcasts instead

[@funkyseven19]

Coming over out of my Bitcoin bubble a bit to see these comments and my goodness.. reminds me just how early we are in this transition

[@JeDxDeVu]

Bitcoin is not crypto. It’s Bitcoin and everything else. If you think Bitcoin is like any other crypto and that the words are interchangeable then you have lots of work ahead of you.

[@lchpdmq]

Your religion is kind of hilarious, and I’ve been in bitcoin for over a decade

[@meinking22]

Nice to see the Boomers and normies are finally getting some solid information on crypto. Well done Uncommon Knowledge. Better late than never.

[@WhiteCloud746]

Outstanding choice for a guest. It's good to shake things up a bit.

[@ninobach7456]

You really have to respect the open mindedness from the interviewer

[@aimhigh3701]

This is so good. The hoover institution tackling crypto is much needed.

[@glenw3814]

BA seems like a very thoughtful guy. This interview is a win in my book.

[@LeroyJamlArmstng]

Fix the money and you fix the world

[@gilkennedy7638]

Im in crypto since 2017, have a Coinbase account since, never really took time to listen to Brian....I'm impress

[@guitarsz]

what a gracious host. He’s fantastic.

[@7777maesteg]

It's the first time I have heard this interviewer. Excellent technique and want to hear more!

[@dd-ow6pe]

hats off to interviewer .. extremely difficult subject for non-technical person

[@davidanalyst671]

this is hilarious. "Pretend we have a functioning congress" lolz. sometimes this guy is the best part of the vid.

[@codrinvechiu2832]

I would be interested in Tom Sowell's opinion on crypto

[@joshholm1000]

I'm willing to bet he's all for it.

[@padmajaerella9117]

Smart move Brian, wish more leaders have spine like you

[@Web3WondersUS]

This is American journalism at its finest. Five star interview - historic.Thank you! 👏🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟👏

[@stevewaterfield4862]

A small correction, gold is not scarce. The amount available is only limited by the effort humans exert to mine it. As the price goes up, more and more gold will be mined. Not so with BTC, 21 million is all there is, no matter the price.

[@dave9547]

Who created bitcoin? Do you reeeeally think the gov/deep state don't know?

[@DefiTraveler]

Armstrong is a hero!

[@Arterium]

Brilliant interview. Thank you!!

[@innermind23]

Coinbase is the most important American company since Google.

[@ronnw8153]

Wow I never knew this about Brian Armstrong. Kick ass guy. 🤜🤛👍

[@fegerstein]

When the guy said his 700 purchase went to 300 the next day. Brian should of said. Buy the dips

[@SammyC27]

lower your crazy fees Brian

[@HellsMaw]

Fantastic interview, Coinbase and the crypto market as a whole are just getting started

[@Benjamin-fu5ij]

Didn't think I'd see Lex Luther on the show! All joking aside, he's definitely one of the good ones. He's shown spinal fortitude, and is working to make our world a better place, and preserve individual liberty and ability to self-determine, much respect!

[@mariusrotterdam5212]

What a master class of journalism! Well prepared for every detail for asking a question. Now I know about the timeline of Brian Armstrong work in Coinbase. Best quality of the interview. 💯🇱🇺🇱🇹👊

[@emailsender7139]

Excellent interview. Armstrong and Coinbase have been my go to since I started investing in the sector. The government has issues with crypto because they can not fully control it.

[@jfscars48]

There’s hope. A brilliant young man.

[@dominiqueluz5257]

Peter Robinson, you are not onlyban extraordinary interviewer but also a great inspiration for those who also intend to be interviewers! Keep up.the good work!

[@scepisle4970]

This is why we Bitcoin....... ❤

[@njreno1]

Never thought I would listen to a podcast or interview through the Hoover Institution. Great interview.

[@trevorshakiba1329]

Crazy. Didn't expect to see this topic on Uncommon Knowledge. Bravo. Bitcoin (not crypto) is the future!

[@EdRobles1]

Wow. Best interview I’ve seen on this topic. Professional, transparent session. A rarity nowadays.

[@TawBitcoin]

Get Michael saylor on to talk about Bitcoin!

[@DueceBandit]

Extremely great interview to send to an older person to get them away from hating/having no knowledge of crypto. Not very deep in any one subject, but perfect as an intro.

[@cazalis]

Great, simple, concise, sans prejudice interview! ❤

[@Web3WondersUS]

25:59 Leadership moment - clarity on the mission.👏

[@sarasotafl]

Very good interview, very professional

[@FollowEman]

Excellent interview. Thank you.

[@f1sker_karma]

Holy sh*t. This was a fantastic listen.

[@sharpenedge]

It was terrible.

[@vanodyssey1659]

Great talk, I think this will be one that will be watched in 30 years time when the future are trying to understand the histoy crypto. Though at that stage, it may just be as common as cash is today. The talk has a James F Buckley vibe to it.

[@bufuCS]

I enjoyed every single minute of this! Thanks for the upload

[@SaiDeLaRai]

🤔 this is probably one of the best interviews I have ever seen.

[@BlockchainShango]

Good morning. Forgive me if my tone comes off as crass, but at 2:00 Mr. Armstrong's...reply, is insufficient. Coinbase has been around more than long enough to not have the issues they have had for years. I am sure his words will help people take their first steps into the world of digital assets, so I am grateful for that. But, I advise caution to all who listen to him. His stance leans toward "centralization" which goes against a better way forward for money. Those who favor centralization may as well stick with the current system that is failing us, today. Pleas do your own research and ensure any decisions you make are as informed as possible. Take care, everyone.

[@stevehalverson790]

I think of crypto as two categories: 1. Bitcoin 2. All other cryptocurrencies

[@paulfrancis4227]

I wish T. Sowell were sitting in. He’d remind us “there’s no solutions, only compromises” I daresay. But from Bitcoiners, all of whom know “not your keys, not your crypto”, I hope everyone notices that Mr Armstrong’s successful corporation is a massive bank-type institution - a middle man which Bitcoin was to circumvent. This point has limits. Of course: One cannot mine bitcoin easily any longer (the intended way to gain coins), so purchasing them is necessary. There are decentralized exchanges now, or soon (Better Than Money, eg), which allow individual exchanges of currencies. But Armstrong, in the end, was sneaky in his answer on freedom: his interests cannot, cannot possibly be those of the average bitcoin holder.

[@lchpdmq]

Dont be so cynical, it ridiculous, people need a way into the ecosystem and cb does a good job supporting it, as things evolve they will be more decentralized

[@joshholm1000]

Agreed but he's a huge icon in the crypto space and therefore pushes the crypto message to the masses. Love him or hate him he's doing work to spread Bitcoin throughout the world.

[@manuelamundaray299]

Classy interview

[@RedMcc]

What a great interview!!

[@bobinindiana]

Congress should take the power to order the printing of money away from the Federal Reserve Bank. The market should set interest rates. If Congress decides to increase the money supply, let them pay the full political price. As for Argentina, Peron was a full-fledged Facist.

[@jerryearick4943]

Very wonderful analogy

[@kakaocorporation]

Coinbase is one of our favorite companies from Y Combinator.

[@Kid_Ikaris]

Peter Robinson is the most inside the DC beltway guy I've listened to. And you know what, I love him for it.

[@marcosquezada6430]

They have been saying this for 10 years and I still can't even by groceries with bitcoin? Come on now

[@BitcoinMeister]

Great interview! This is a valuable service for the boomer side of your audience. Brian is a Bitcoin hero and he does not scare normies away. Everyone can still protect their wealth with Bitcoin!

[@TheTeaserking]

Watch your botcoin go to 0 btw it's not backed by anything n when the dollar goes to 0 bitcoin n all crypto go to 0. Smh didn't u go to school. Lol the professor

[@fusion9619]

Hey, I know you! I haven't seen your videos in a long time - I'm gonna check out your podcast again after this. I love your enthusiasm!

[@robertlee8042]

Don’t interrupt the man with anecdotes. He was about to tell you about the fall of empires due to currency inflation and you stopped him. LISTEN.

[@TheTeaserking]

Rome ended due to inflation because they stopped using gold the same with Spain France Amsterdam the Ukraine n the usa. The professor the only answer is gold

[@gladyshernandez877]

Love the information

[@S2G-yn3fl]

Great interview. Thank you

[@CHrbn]

Great interview. Lots of good information

[@bjarnithors]

Amazing interview, lots of respect for Brian Armstrong!

[@BofaDeezKnights]

I am happy to see this topic covered. But I would have loved to see a discussion with a researcher or early advocate in the field, not a corporate CEO. A CEO is very limited in what they are allowed to say on camera. It makes for a very muted discussion.

[@lchpdmq]

He’s at the crossroads of key economic issues and and actual player in how the world evolves, and you want some academic? Bizarre

[@magcarl2000]

Good to see Coin CEO suing the SEC. He could have expressed his support to Ripple when they were going through the same with the SEC.

[@marklane870]

Deflationary money 💰 Bitcoin is the best thing thats happened in financial history

[@timkopp9763]

Yaaass what a sweet pairing Uncommon knowledge and Brian Armstrong

[@asdf09er]

Interesting example of how a small number of vocal people can cause such disruption. 29:45

[@PrevailPal]

Thank you for sharing. May your day BE filled with more thankfulness, encouragement and forward thinking today....

[@kryptotrader4699]

great Stuff, nice guy! 💪

[@hammamkemeh7574]

This is interview has opened my eyes and made me so interested in investing into cryptocurrency

[@sharpenedge]

Study Bitcoin. Forget "crypto". Bitcoin only.

[@paulfrancis4227]

A suggestion: Armstrong dances on the surface when answering why Bitcoin’s not become a payment vehicle. How’s this? - the Fed’s aim of (say) 2.3% jnflation is, among other things, a stimulus for folks to buy - turn your money (into investments or products), or it loses its value. Bitcoin is deflationary. It therefore destroys one’s motivation to spend. Big picture: Bitcoin’s structure destroys our economic model. It has ushered in a competing model in which holders hold. Period. That stasis of a currency is antithetical to our entire economy, and since we are the spending man, now, bitcoin is in a very big way antithetical to us, our very notions of ourselves. That’s why we don’t spend it.

[@user-dg5yp9jj8j]

Block Sailor BLOCK has a fascinating concept. eager to continue my exploration.

[@Web3WondersUS]

Tension stated mission of freedom vs fiduciary duty to investors - CEO great answer alignment 20:56 kudos!

[@nosuchthing8]

Its provably unique in the sense that only one bitcoin miner solves the puzzle first and is awarded the coin. And that result is logged into the block chain on all the miners across the world. If there is a tie then the longest chain gets the coin. AFAIK

[@user-ex8rp7sd9v]

Good interview, well done

[@fomusorogers4506]

both of them are masters in their field of work

[@agamemnonplatonis9019]

What a great podcast! 👏🏻 Thank you for organizing the interview 🙏🏻

[@user-um1lh5uk3m]

"No man can serve two masters."

[@mallred32]

Great interview with Brian, looking forward to an interview with Richard Heart, It's probably 2-4 years away, but I'll just drop his name here and wait for the interview in a few years.. Crypto is going through big transformations, and it'll be more and more exciting as time goes on.

[@jeffpeterson4287]

Almost halfway through the interview. I hope he answers the elephant in the room: The risk of the Feds freezing, or seizing the crypto held on the exchange.

[@Marklodhi420]

I recorded one minute of Peter speaking about "bitcoin can fix it".

[@jonathanmebane3782]

amazing interview

[@markkeith9239]

with in the a relative framework of improving financial transactions and getting everybody the basic knowledge needed to save more effectively. Its a good thing.

[@Web3WondersUS]

50:53 Important insights, the lens of those who lived through the depression is different. The best way ' to ensure the survival of USA' 53:25 - excellent focus.

[@shanepannell227]

Epic interview

[@sharpenedge]

Terrible interview. Brian runs a casino, and the interviewer naively confuses "crypto" with Bitcoin.

[@Andersonray665]

Well explain thank you for bringing up this video Financial education is indeed required for more than 80% of the society in the country as very few are literate on the subject. Thanks Pamela pearl for her helpful guides

[@urban.c]

dang, I wish I can like this video more than once!

[@copperpot5462]

If for nothing else, he deserves recognition simply for standing up to the "agenda"

[@sharpenedge]

But he's not! He's trying to capitalize on people's ignorance to enrich himself and help introduce a spy-coin digital dollar. Study Bitcoin, not "crypto". "Crypto" is dangerous.

[@BKLevi]

Thank you for this boomer edition of btc today.. I'm 66, love crypto, and now thanks to this video I will have to learn to use Base. This is life-changing for real... As for respecting Warren Buffett... how can I respect the largest donor to abortion-funding... not

[@shahidarshad4531]

very nice interview, host did a great job

[@mariusrotterdam5212]

Very good point of view!!! 💯🇱🇺🇱🇹👊

[@robertlee8042]

I remember the SEC chairman, I can’t remember who he was, but they were suing some kid for doing whatever brokerage sell side brokerage firm does in America.

[@darbyheavey406]

That’s a very unclear statement.