MasterClass

Crypto and the Blockchain With Noted Experts

Since Bitcoin’s launch in 2009, crypto has offered the hope of a stronger, more democratic financial system. And it’s raised plenty of questions as it continues to evolve. Now experts and skeptics at the center of the conversation are sharing a straightforward look at how this ecosystem is changing. Learn the basics, dive deep into the world of blockchain and Web3, and get the breakdown on what you need to know now.

Where to Watch Crypto and the Blockchain With Noted Experts

19 Episodes

Meet Your Instructors
E1
Meet Your InstructorsWith instructors at the front end of crypto and economics, this class reveals the inner workings of the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Meet your new board of advisers: Emilie Choi, Chris Dixon, Paul Krugman, and Changpeng “CZ” Zhao.
History of Crypto
E2
History of CryptoChangpeng “CZ” Zhao deconstructs the true origins of crypto and how the mysterious figure known as “Satoshi Nakamoto” introduced it to the world. Then, Chris Dixon shares why cryptocurrency and Web3 are in a golden age.
Decentralization: Freedom and Possibility
E3
Decentralization: Freedom and PossibilityThe instructors outline why cryptocurrency and blockchain technology may be the answer to many of the problems facing the world today.
Decentralization: Is it Built on a Lie?
E4
Decentralization: Is it Built on a Lie?Professor Paul Krugman shares the reasons behind his skepticism of cryptocurrency and blockchains, including what he sees as their misleading and unreliable value.
Paul & CZ In-Conversation: The "Problem" With Crypto
E5
Paul & CZ In-Conversation: The "Problem" With CryptoIn a MasterClass first, CZ and Professor Paul Krugman engage in a debate covering several of crypto’s most polarizing topics, including the greatest challenges for digital currency.
Blockchain Evolution
E6
Blockchain EvolutionIn this lesson, Emilie Choi and Chris Dixon detail the futuristic world of Web 3—powered by blockchain technology and cryptocurrency—and the prospects of the “new internet.”
Web3: Read, Write, Own
E7
Web3: Read, Write, OwnEmilie Choi, Chris Dixon, and CZ discuss some of the drawbacks of on-chain technology and the innovations necessary to propel blockchains and cryptocurrency into the future.
Crypto for Entrepreneurs
E8
Crypto for EntrepreneursEmilie Choi shares executive insight into how entrepreneurs can best interact amid the excitement of cryptocurrency. CZ and Chris Dixon dive into how blockchain could help solve some of the traditional challenges that entrepreneurs face.
DAOs: Companies Run by Communities
E9
DAOs: Companies Run by CommunitiesGroups operating in cryptocurrency are exploring the communal potential of DAOs, “decentralized autonomous organizations.” Chris Dixon examines why DAOs were created and how they are experiments in democracy.
NFTs: Digital Goods
E10
NFTs: Digital GoodsNFTs may be the buzziest acronym in cryptocurrency. One by one, Chris Dixon deconstructs the types of NFTs and their potential applications. He also shares how these tokens allow for participation and ownership for everyone involved.
Crypto Token Ownership
E11
Crypto Token OwnershipThere is a proliferation of tokens in the cryptocurrency space—but they don’t all hold real value. Chris Dixon unpacks the tokens that exist in the market and shares tips on what to consider before buying into something new.
Stablecoins: Are They Really Stable?
E12
Stablecoins: Are They Really Stable?Stablecoins may have at least two sides. Emilie Choi discusses different types of stablecoins and their potential, while Professor Paul Krugman argues that this type of cryptocurrency is an example of an old banking problem.
Paul & CZ In-Conversation: Are Stablecoins Safe?
E13
Paul & CZ In-Conversation: Are Stablecoins Safe?Continuing their cryptocurrency debate, Professor Paul Krugman and CZ cover the contentious topic of Stablecoins.
Why Is Crypto So Volatile?
E14
Why Is Crypto So Volatile?The cryptocurrency market has had its share of ups and downs. Professor Paul Krugman draws economic parallels between traditional and decentralized finance. Then, Emilie Choi and CZ state their case for the importance of volatility.
The Dangers for Investors
E15
The Dangers for InvestorsThe crypto ecosystem is seen by some as a world of innovation and by others as a world of scams. Professor Paul Krugman and CZ cover the dangers present in the cryptocurrency landscape and offer ways to protect yourself.
Paul & CZ In-Conversation: Crypto Consumer Protection
E16
Paul & CZ In-Conversation: Crypto Consumer ProtectionWrapping up their debate, Professor Paul Krugman and CZ scrutinize the consumer market for crypto and blockchains and their visions for the technology’s future.
Crypto Regulation Is Necessary
E17
Crypto Regulation Is NecessaryProfessor Paul Krugman details the history of financial regulation, including how it works and who it serves, and he discusses why he believes cryptocurrency shouldn’t be exempt from legal oversight.
The Future of Crypto
E18
The Future of CryptoThe instructors share their views on how cryptocurrency and blockchain will continue to evolve.
Primer: How Blockchains Work
E19
Primer: How Blockchains WorkEmilie Choi breaks down the basics of blockchain technology in this quick, animated lesson and explains how it can create a more open, accessible financial model.