Bitcoin is evolving—and fast. No longer just a digital currency or store of value, it's stepping into a broader role with exciting new financial applications. According to Cointelegraph, this marks the beginning of what some are calling “Bitcoin Season 2.”
In a recent episode of The Clear Crypto Podcast, hosts Nathan Jeffay and Gareth Jenkinson explored this shift with Isabel Foxen Duke, general partner at Unbroken Chain and a longtime Bitcoin advocate. Duke emphasized that Bitcoin is now being reimagined beyond its traditional purpose.
Expanding Use Cases: From Ordinals to Trustless Lending
Duke pointed to innovations like ordinals, runes, and Bitcoin-native DeFi tools that are expanding the network’s utility. One standout development is trustless lending—a way for users to borrow against their Bitcoin without third-party intermediaries.
This system relies on Discreet Log Contracts (DLCs), allowing users to retain control of their assets while using them as collateral. Repayments are enforced through smart contract logic, offering transparency and security without centralized oversight.
Bitcoin as a Financial Base Layer
Duke also expressed enthusiasm for trustless bridging, which would allow Bitcoin to interact with external computing platforms while preserving its decentralized nature. This could pave the way for Bitcoin to serve as a foundational asset across financial systems—not just a currency.
Jenkinson added that Bitcoin-native DeFi could empower people traditionally excluded from banking. With just minor code adjustments, he believes permissionless finance could become accessible to everyone, signaling a future where Bitcoin plays a central role in global financial inclusion.
Listen to the Full Conversation
To dive deeper into these topics, check out the full episode on Cointelegraph’s Podcasts page, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. Cointelegraph also hosts a variety of shows exploring the cutting edge of crypto and blockchain innovation.
