basically calling them "assets"
They are now recognized as objects but are not treated on a par with their more established counterparts.
so like other assets which by definition are a form of currency, but that does not mean that its treated the same as FIAT.
then they are not understanding what bitcoin really easy, and it is not only an asset for speculation, but an instrument of payment principally...
the blockchain is the instrument of payment. the protocol linked to satoshis genesis block is the instrument of payment. but bitcoin is becoming the term to use for the units/tokens. not the protocol.
EG
"bitcoins blockchain" can be compared analogically as visa america
bitcoin can be compared analogically as dollar
"litecoins blockchain" can be compared analogically as visa europe
litecoin can be compared analogically as euro
thats why "blockchain" buzzword is becoming a thing.. not only because its a better term than 'cryptocurrency' but it also helps define what people are talking about when they use the word 'bitcoin' as its not good to call the token, the ledger database and the protocol code, just bitcoin.