In a lively conversation at a local coffee shop, Bitcoin found its way into the spotlight, sparking a spirited debate between a regular patron and a newcomer curious about the cryptocurrency. The regular, a self-proclaimed skeptic, raised familiar critiques: "The problem with Bitcoin," he argued, "is that it’s mostly owned by whales and China. Plus, phantom transactions make it seem like trading activity is higher than it really is." He also described Bitcoin as too volatile to be a practical financial tool.

The discussion shifted when the newcomer admitted she didn’t fully understand Bitcoin. Stepping in, I highlighted its unique advantages: "Bitcoin has consistently shown value growth over time. It enables peer-to-peer transactions without the need for banks and allows holders to avoid inadvertently funding causes they don’t support—unlike traditional fiat currencies." I also emphasized the moral and ethical aspects of Bitcoin, explaining how it helps users avoid putting their money into wars or initiatives they don’t support. "With Bitcoin, you have more control over where your value goes," I added.

The regular wasn’t convinced, quickly pointing out that the Canadian dollar is a "top 4" global currency and suggesting that it only appears weak when compared to the U.S. dollar. "If you look closely," he added, "it’s not as bad as people think."

Caught off-guard, I responded by referencing the tangible economic impact many in our community are feeling. "Even if the Canadian dollar is stable in theory," I countered, "its depreciation is hitting real people hard. Families are struggling to keep up with rising costs, and wages aren’t catching up. It’s undeniable that this has real consequences for day-to-day living."

The conversation ended on a thought-provoking note, highlighting Bitcoin’s growing presence in everyday discussions as proof of its relevance in today’s financial landscape and its possibilities for the future. The coffee shop buzzed on, but the topic lingered—to be continued.