We’re looking at a future of $97K Bitcoin on the horizon. Headlines shriek of institutional hoarding, shrinking exchange reserves, and a “synthetic halving” causing a supply shock. We all know that’s not the whole story. What does any of that nonsense actually mean for us, those of us trying to blue collar our way into saving a buck or two for tomorrow? Have we just crossed the threshold into a new crypto windfall? If yes, will it just be a bailout for Wall Street with Main Street getting nothing?

Another Boom, Another Missed Opportunity?

Remember 2017? The Bitcoin frenzy? I do. I remember my buddies talking about FIRE, retirement in their thirties, and buying Lamborghinis. It’s as if they had found the magic formula to make money grow on trees! And then… the crash. All of those same folks are now very, very quiet on crypto. Fast forward to today, and here we are once again, with Bitcoin once again knocking on the door of six figures. But this time, it seems different, more institutional. The usual suspects are in the house and they mean business.

I heard from Sarah, a single mother who’s juggling two jobs. No, but it certainly would have made waves in 2020 when she first announced that she wanted to add Bitcoin to their investments. The excessive fees were pretty scary, and she was afraid of being duped. Now, watching it approach $100k I am kicking myself for missing the boat… again. Sarah’s story isn’t unique. That’s the reality for millions of people. They are always outcasts, as everyone from their grocery store cashier to their estranged relatives flourish without them while they deal with their own preventable financial woes. It’s a story of anger and anxiety, emotions we all know too well.

Think about it. With institutions quickly buying up Bitcoin and plowing into cold storage, the liquid supply is getting drier. Well then, what can the everyday man do to help? This is because high transaction fees make small investments difficult. Access to sophisticated investment tools and research is out of reach. The new dangers are everywhere and the often impenetrable world of crypto is filled with scams, targeting those who are new to the space. This is like looking in on an exclusive VIP party through a window, while the bouncer at the door refuses all entry.

Synthetic Halving, Real Wealth Divide?

This “synthetic halving” everyone’s talking about is especially egregious. In fact, it’s companies like MicroStrategy that have been purchasing more Bitcoin than miners produce each month. This is a classic case of an artificial supply shortage, a type of market manipulation if you will right? It’s a pretty cute trick if you’re already rich, but it does deeper cuts to the little guy’s access.

Let's draw an unexpected connection here. Remember the 2008 financial crisis? Banks engaged in sinfully reckless risk-taking, were bailed out by the taxpayers, and promptly proceeded to return to their original reckless ways, raking in record profits. It really does seem like we’re on the cusp of a similar situation with Bitcoin. Now, institutions are preparing to take advantage of the benefits that will come with this next wave. In the end, the rest of us have to settle for whatever crumbs they do leave us. The system seems rigged, doesn't it? This spurs outrage and a sense of injustice.

Demand Inclusion, Demand Alternatives

So, what can we do? Do we simply concede that Bitcoin is doomed to go the way of becoming a new casino for the billionaire class? Absolutely not! We need to demand greater financial inclusion. We have to advocate for regulation that keeps the small/big investor playing field even and lets everyone in on the crypto game. This isn’t about halting innovation, this is about making sure its rewards are more evenly distributed.

Consider exploring decentralized finance (DeFi) projects. Just as many DeFi platforms have nobly claimed to democratize access to financial services. They provide fee relief and make investing more inclusive, democratizing access to opportunity. They also have their own risks. It’s not just about looking for alternatives, taking control of our future, and reimagining and creating a financial system that meets the needs of the many—not the privileged few.

We all need to demand our elected officials are held accountable as well. Ask them: What are you doing to ensure that the digital economy benefits all citizens, not just a select few? Demand transparency and fairness.

The Bitcoin bash is going to be a wild night! Send a message We can’t let the same thing happen again. Let’s ensure that this time, Main Street is included. Let’s not miss the boat again and leave the average American under water. It's time to act. Time to hold them accountable and demand a seat at the table. Now it’s time to work together to create an inclusive financial future. This is a huge opportunity for us to get smart, save money and send a strong signal about our values. Let's not waste it.