US President Donald Trump was once skeptical of digital assets, saying Bitcoin “seems like a scam” and that crypto’s value was “based on thin air.”

Now, cryptocurrency is at the centre of both his economic agenda, and his personal wealth. 

Since returning to office in January, Trump has put out executive orders supporting the industry, expanding the government’s use of digital assets, and paving the way for retirement funds to invest in cryptocurrencies – all while his administration dismantles the regulations that keep the industry in check.

Today, tech and power reporter for The Guardian Nick Robins-Early, on how Trump is using the presidency to push crypto – all while building a sprawling crypto empire.

This is part one of a two-part interview.

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Guest: Tech and power reporter for The Guardian, Nick Robins-Early

Photo: AP Photo/Mark Humphrey, File