Cryptocurrency
The Impact of Nixon Shock and the Debate on Bitcoin as Money
Thursday. August 15 at 9:00 PM
1 min. readOn August 15, 2024, the 53rd anniversary of the Nixon Shock, when President Richard Nixon removed the gold standard for the US dollar, is marked. Nixon initially claimed this move was temporary to stabilize the dollar, but its lasting effects are still debated by economists. Niel Jacobs of Swan Bitcoin emphasized the importance of this event and advocated for Bitcoin as money. The website WTF Happened in 1971 highlighted the consequences of ending the gold standard, such as stagnating wages and increased income inequality. Despite Nixon's promises to stabilize the dollar and combat inflation, prices have soared since then. While some argue for a return to the gold standard, others like Ben Prentice advocate for Bitcoin as the best form of money. Economists remain divided on the benefits of ending the gold standard, with a majority disagreeing with its reinstatement. The debate on the impact of Nixon's decision and the potential role of blockchain technology in the future of currency continues among experts and stakeholders.