Bitcoin Forum

We are trying to decide what kind of angle we'd like to take at the conference since we'll be the oddballs who have not produced a crytpocurrency, but instead we're providing support around the infrastructure. Here are some initial thoughts I had when brainstorming some topics:

• Why regulating Bitcoin won't work
• Would establishing a gold-backed Bitcoin create more widespread adoption
  
• Bitcoin: goldbugs vs. techies

Oh and if you haven't heard about the event in detail here's their press release: http://venturebeat.com/2014/03/03/the-first-ever-cryptocurrency-convention-set-to-explore-the-future-of-digital-currencies/

There seems to be a successful divide/conquer tactic going on between goldbugs and bitcoinbugs, judging by the typical attitude towards BTC at zerohedge. So perhaps focussing on similarities between the 2 could be useful - no banks involved, decentralised creation, not created as debt, no usury are a few that spring to mind. Security issues could be worth discussing, too - would you keep your gold at the comex (mtgox), or a safe (cold storage wallet)? I see gold and BTC as complementary, gold for long term holdings, BTC for spending or to profit (perhaps) from volatility, if that's your bag.

I do like the comparison of holding the physical metal being equivalent to controlling the private keys of bitcoin addresses vs fiat currencies being like holding paper gold.

When you say regulating Bitcoin won't work, can you be a little more specific?  Are you talking about anti-money laundering regulations?

It means exactly what it means, noone can regulate an open network.

You can however regulate the  exchanges or financial services.....

Regulators are pretty hands off with wall street and banks, Id appreciate the same level of freedom with my Bitcoins.

Also, heavy crypto regulation in The States will just put the USA behind other countries who are more open to new tech and markets.

We cant afford to fall behind more as our country is struggling enough as it is.

If we have to have regulation, Id prefer a very "lite" version just for exchanges, individuals and merchants should not be be forced through the wringer for a simple transaction.

I think it would be best if you talk about the things that affect you and your business the most.

Talk about how accepting cryptocurrencies affects your business.
Talk about how cryptocurrencies affect the precious metals market.
Compare characteristics of precious metals as money to cryptocurrencies as money (though that might be too basic).
You could even talk about whether or not you think that countries might adopt cryptocurrencies after dumping the gold standard.

On the topic of gold-backed cryptocurrencies, I don't think it will work because someone has to hold the gold.

Colored coins will allow you to release Amagi gold backed coins using the blockchain http://coloredcoins.org/

Taking a detour in your presentation to try to bridge the divide between bitcoiners and goldbugs/silverbugs might be a good idea. Specifically, describing how bitcoiners can present Bitcoin to metalbugs positively, since a lot of the hostility seems to come from them (even though for most of their needs, bitcoin fits very well.) Maybe detailing how you became convinced that Bitcoin was worth getting involved in?

And BTW, I really enjoy the service you guys offer. I just recently pointed out to a group of silverbugs that you're one of the few solid bullion dealers who accepts bitcoins, and a couple of other cryptocurrencies as well. Kudos!