The Bitcoin SUPER HALVING is Upon Us
Posted April 12, 2024
Chris Campbell
I've been obsessed with Bitcoin for over a decade now.
I've seen it grow from a niche curiosity to a global phenomenon, weathering countless scandals, crashes, and obituaries along the way.
But through all the noise…
I've always believed that Bitcoin -- and crypto at large -- represents a seismic shift in how we think about money, value, and trust.
And yet, even as someone who eats, sleeps, and breathes crypto, I have to admit: I haven't been this excited about Bitcoin specifically in a long time.
And the halving is only half of it.
Which is why we’re calling it the SUPER HALVING.
Here’s one reason I’m excited.
Ordinal Theory
It’s called Ordinal Theory.
If you haven't been paying attention, you're missing out on what could be Bitcoin’s biggest innovation yet.
First, some context.
Bitcoin, unlike Ethereum and other blockchains, is UTXO-based.
This means that instead of an account-based model, Bitcoin tracks unspent transaction outputs (UTXOs).
With what’s called Ordinal Theory, we can actually number these UTXOs based on when they were mined. This opens up a whole new realm of possibilities, like being able to identify and trade specific, rare satoshis.
But the real magic happens when you combine this with inscriptions -- the ability to embed arbitrary data into these satoshis.
Suddenly, Bitcoin transforms from a pure monetary system into a platform for truly decentralized, immutable data.
We're talking about data woven into the very fabric of the Bitcoin blockchain, immune to the risks of off-chain storage.
What does this mean?
The Digital Library of Alexandria
In essence, Bitcoin could become a modern-day Library of Alexandria -- but one that is fireproof, flood-proof, and immune to all manner of destruction.
You'll be able to store various types of data, from standard text and images to entire programs. If necessary, you can store related data across multiple inscriptions.
The Bitcoin blockchain can be a source of data that can't be tampered with. (You’ll also have the option to encrypt the data for privacy.)
From historical archives and scientific publications to open-source hardware designs and virtual reality worlds, a global, decentralized repository could revolutionize the way we store and access a wide range of information.
Journalists could store their sources and materials with unparalleled protection, while meteorological data, seismic records, and astronomical observations could be shared and studied by researchers worldwide.
Registries, gaming assets, and 3D printing models could find a permanent home, fostering innovation and collaboration across industries. Even something as simple as recording lottery winning numbers or sports statistics could be made more transparent and tamper-proof.
The Library of Alexandria burned.
But with crypto, we have the opportunity to build something even greater -- a repository of truth that can stand the test of time.
But, here’s the thing…
Bigger Than Bitcoin
There are challenges to overcome.
Inscribing data into Bitcoin isn't free, and the network's limited transaction throughput could become a bottleneck.
Bitcoin is behind this curve.
And while we believe Bitcoin has a bright future, there are other projects James and I are mega-bullish on.
Especially after the halving.
Next week, we’re going to talk more about what to expect in cryptoland in 2024 -- and crypto taxes (fun)!
Stay tuned.