Bloomberg’s Crypto Show on April 15, 2025, provided a deep dive into the latest trends shaping the decentralized finance (DeFi) sector. Hosted by Bloomberg’s Olga Kharif and Michael Regan, the episode featured insights from Alex Thorn, Head of Firmwide Research at Galaxy Digital, and Devin Finzer, CEO of OpenSea. The discussion covered a range of topics, including stablecoin innovations, Bitcoin’s market trajectory, and the emergence of inflation-linked stablecoins.
Stablecoins: The Future of Cross-Border Transactions
One of the key takeaways from the episode was the growing role of stablecoins in traditional finance. Experts noted that major banks are increasingly exploring stablecoins for cross-border transactions, aiming to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
The conversation highlighted how USDi, a newly launched inflation-linked stablecoin, is designed to track the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI), offering investors a hedge against inflation. Unlike conventional stablecoins pegged to fiat currencies, USDi adjusts its value based on inflation rates, making it a unique alternative to traditional bonds.
Bitcoin’s Bullish Outlook
The episode also examined Bitcoin’s recent price movements, with analysts predicting a significant rally in the coming months. Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan shared his perspective, stating that Bitcoin is “set up to rally significantly” due to increasing institutional adoption and macroeconomic factors. The discussion touched on Bitcoin ETFs, which have seen record inflows, signaling renewed investor confidence. Additionally, Pantera Capital’s Paul Paglia noted that Bitcoin’s resilience during recent market pullbacks suggests strong industry support.
Regulatory Challenges and Market Adaptation
Despite the optimism surrounding Bitcoin and stablecoins, the episode acknowledged ongoing regulatory challenges. The SEC’s evolving stance on crypto assets remains a key concern for investors and businesses. Experts debated whether existing securities laws are sufficiently adaptable to accommodate the rapid growth of DeFi. Some argued that clearer regulations could help foster innovation, while others warned that overregulation might stifle progress.
Shogun Lin
