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@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-14 07:29:39
Organized by Figma, Config is happening May 6-8 in San Francisco—here's a first look at our 2025 lineup.
[Register for Config 2025](https://config.figma.com/san-francisco/register/)
At Config 2025, we’re bringing together the designers and builders shaping tech’s next chapter. They’ll share a vision for building tools and experiences that are human-centered, intentional, and meet the needs of an accelerating future.
[Register now](https://config.figma.com/san-francisco/register/) to guarantee your spot in San Francisco! Virtual registration is also open, and always free.
Join us in San Francisco or virtually.
### $799 - In person
Moscone Center, San Francisco, California
Purchasing an in-person ticket will also give you virtual access to our livestreams.
[Select in person](https://reg.config.figma.com/flow/figma/config2025/in-person/login)
### $0 Virtual
Livestream Online
Free - Limit one ticket per attendee.
[Select virtual](https://reg.config.figma.com/flow/figma/config2025/virtual/login)
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Or [keep reading](https://www.figma.com/blog/meet-the-makers-defining-techs-next-chapter/?utm_campaign=021325+-+Invite&utm_content=021325+-+Invite) for the full Config 2025 sneak peek
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/885616
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@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-14 06:26:26
Hello Stackers!
Welcome on into the ~Music Corner of the Saloon!
A place where we Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.
So stay a while and listen.
🚨Don't forget to check out the pinned items in the territory homepage! You can always find the latest weeklies there!🚨
🚨Subscribe to the territory to ensure you never miss a post! 🚨
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/885591
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@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-14 05:45:37
### a practical intro to contributing to FOSS for product people, and other non-devs
So you want to contribute to FOSS, but don’t know where to start. There are many paths to FOSS, but you must find your own. Here’s some advice based on personal experience to help you get started.
### 0\. Find your motivation
FOSS requires a lot of giving, and better aligns with those that are missionaries, as opposed to the mercenaries. Perhaps you are unfulfilled in your fiat job, maybe you are currently unemployed, or perhaps you are excited about a particular bitcoin project. Why you’re exploring contributing to FOSS, is a question that only you can answer.
 Are you a missionary?
### 1\. Discover what excites you
So you’ve found motivation and have a list of various FOSS projects you could contribute to. This is the equivalent of the “I need a job” stage and you’re figuring out where to apply. It’s time to narrow it down.
What are you excited about? A multi-year pilgrimage of learning how to contribute to Bitcoin Core? A lightning wallet, perhaps? Free speech Nostr? A hardware signing device? Or maybe finding a FOSS projects that is not “Bitcoin” in name, but happens to support Bitcoin, and Lightning.
A great first step is to take some time and explore the Bitcoin Design Community ([https://bitcoin.design/](https://bitcoin.design/)) to discover FOSS projects.
 Are you excited anon?
### 2\. Identify the skills you have or want to develop
Chances are that if you follow the Bitcoin Product Community, you’re skills are in Product Management, Product Marketing, and/or Project Management. But contributing to a bitcoin project requires contributors with skills of many backgrounds such as marketing, documentation, community building, and more.
What’s important to know is that most FOSS teams start with a motivated developer, who then may attract other devs. But many of them may not advertise that they need non-developer help such as a PM.
Therein lies the opportunity for you as an eager bitcoin contributor. See what the needs of a project are and see if you can fill in those gaps with your skills. It may be as simple as coordinating meetings for the team. But doing the “dirty work”, or the work no one else wants to do, is exactly the way you can make an immediate impact to a FOSS project. In fact, this is why members of the Bitcoin Product Community affectionately refer to product managers as “[janitors](https://medium.com/all-things-product-management/product-manager-you-are-664d83ee702e)”!
### 3\. Make a list of projects
Now that you have narrowed down your FOSS search, it is time to start building a list of, and evaluating various FOSS products. Some questions you can ask yourself:
Is the project active? Is it a new project? How many team members are there? How many are devs? Is there already a PM? Is there a need for multiple PMs? Is there designer participation? What is the pace of development? Is there enough development activity for this to satisfy your want to contribute? Is there opportunity for a PM?
Github is the defacto standard for FOSS products. Check the activity. Read up on issues. See who is contributing PRs, and creating issues. Check if there is a Github Project instance.
It’s OK, and best for you to check out out multiple FOSS projects concurrently to see which team is the best fit for both parties.
### 4\. Use the thing(s)!
Another thing you can do to help you choose a project is to use the thing! Download the OS. Run the software. Use it.
As you’re interacting with the product, some things you can ask yourself are:
What do you love about the product? What can be improved? Are there bugs?
Jot down your notes. Take screenshots. Do screen recordings. Document your experience. Create a video onboarding walkthrough, or a feature tutorial. What you are actually doing is documentation and this will be useful for the project, even if you don’t decide to actively contribute.
As you use the thing, take note of how you’re reacting to it. Are you getting more or less excited? Are you more or less confident in contributing to the project?
### 5\. Find out where the team works
Another factor to consider is to figure out where the team works.
By now you have already explored their github to collect your FOSS intelligence. Now check nostr, twitter, telegram, or whatever other comms tools the team might be using. Some teams may have calls, and call recordings. Consider listening in to a recording, and/or joining a call to check the team dynamics.
As you do, assess whether you might be a good culture fit. Also see where there might be some gaps in their workflow that you can help improve.
### 6\. Start small
Once you found a project that interests and excites you enough. It’s time to roll up your sleeves and get involved by starting small.
One easy place to start is to go through the github issues list. Some examples of issues in dev heavy teams are e extremely technical bug reports. For FOSS products with an active user base, there might be “customer” centric feature requests.
Start by logging the bug(s) you found. Examine issues, and fill in the blanks if there are unclearly defined reports & requests.
You don’t have to ask for permission to contribute. That said, evaluate team dynamics and who owns what role so you are not stepping on anyone’s toes. You are there to help.
Also take note of how your help is received. It may take time for you to build up your credibility. Don’t throw in the towel on the first week. Keep finding ways to add value.
### 7\. Show up consistently
Keep contributing in small things day in and day out. As you do so, communicate with the team to ramp up your learning, and also start building rapport, and your reputation. You may not have time or opportunity to contribute full-time. With the state of asynchronous communication tools in 2023, you can flexibly contribute when you have time. An exception to the asynchronous communication may be team meetings.
As you continue to show up consistently, you will build up your FOSS proof-of-work, and reputation. This will show FOSS devs, and contributors that you bring value.
### 8\. Find and meet the “customer”
Find, and interact with the project’s users a.k.a “customers”. What do they care about? What are their pain points? What needs are customers using the product for? Become the “voice of the customer” to the dev heavy team.
Is there a conference where your team is presenting, and customers present? These are invaluable opportunities to observe the customer’s behavior, and also to help answer questions, and troubleshoot on the spot.
### 9\. Increase your involvement
After some time starting small and working on bugs, you may eventually find yourself submitting feature requests. Maybe there is an opportunity to create user flows, or mockups. As you consistently contribute, continue seeking more responsibility.
Maybe you offer to facilitate and lead the next team call. Maybe you try creating a roadmap and backlog from scratch. Maybe you host a product & design thinking session. Maybe you will level up and learn how to check out a dev’s PR in a yet-to-released branch.
No matter what you do, be sure to always bring value to the project.
 Testing an unreleased Damus branch checked out on XCode
### 10\. Prune, Commit, Repeat
Congratulations! By now you’ve been doing a “trial run” with several projects. It’s time to focus and choose one(s) that you can commit to.
As you contribute to the project on an ongoing basis, continuously reevaluate if there is opportunity for you to increase your contributions. If you feel that you’ve maxed that out, it may be time to look for a different FOSS product to contribute to. Perhaps a complementary product to your initial one.
As you embark on this journey, it can be exhilarating at times and in other times thankless. To find a community of peers, and perhaps a mentor check in with the Bitcoin Product Community [Discord](https://discord.gg/Ztvwn8fycA), and introduce yourself. The beauty of open source is people are willing to help FOSS products, and to answer your questions.
[https://youtu.be/ZUgQPR6ecuo](https://youtu.be/ZUgQPR6ecuo)“FOSS is the way” - Rockstar dev, @ Advancing Bitcoin Conference London 2023. The author thanks Rockstar for inspiration, and guidance through my FOSS journey.
As you continue to sweep the FOSS floors with your product [mop](https://medium.com/all-things-product-management/product-manager-you-are-664d83ee702e), remember that you are contributing to the mission that you believe in. You are working in the open, with even less authority than a PM at a company might have, and as a result leveling up. You build up your reputation in FOSS, and you show others your capabilities in the FOSS world (and also prospective employers, and co-founders) by doing.
Hopefully this helps you get started. Reach out to [elsat on nostr](https://njump.me/npub1zafcms4xya5ap9zr7xxr0jlrtrattwlesytn2s42030lzu0dwlzqpd26k5) if you have questions about the FOSS journey, and join the Bitcoin Product Community Discord.
Posted on @YakiHonne by @elsat
Source: https://yakihonne.com/article/nevent1qqswn2mdwcfscsvv8cfc8scmcfpy0urnf0xgh0dxrvav583y85mkryspz3mhxue69uhhyetvv9ujuerpd46hxtnfdupzq96n3hp2vfmf6z2y8uvvxl97xk86kkalnqghx4p25lzl79c76a7yjfa8zs
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/885573
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@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-14 05:35:18
Volt Wallet is designed to make Bitcoin and Lightning transactions simple, secure, and accessible for users of all experience levels. With the increasing popularity of the Lightning Network, Volt Wallet provides an easy, user-friendly interface for sending and receiving payments while also incorporating educational elements, such as quizzes and tutorial videos, to promote a better understanding of Bitcoin and Lightning payments.
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Source: https://www.behance.net/gallery/217868517/Volt-A-Bitcoin-Lighting-Wallet-for-beginners
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/885569
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@ 9e69e420:d12360c2
2025-02-13 23:01:36
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been confirmed as the next Secretary of Health and Human Services with a Senate vote of 52-48. Senator Mitch McConnell opposed the confirmation. Kennedy's nomination faced hurdles but gained support from the Senate Finance Committee.
During the confirmation hearing, Senator Rand Paul criticized the oversimplification of vaccine discussions. He stated, "Discussion over vaccines is so oversimplified and dumbed down." Kennedy asserted his support for vaccines like measles and polio, promising not to discourage vaccinations as HHS Secretary. Previously, he switched from the Democratic Party to run as an independent and endorsed Trump
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@ 89ccea93:df4e00b7
2025-02-13 17:34:06
**[Original Post](https://expatriotic.me/grapheneos/)**
## Core Philosophy
1. **Privacy ≠ Optional**: Prevents mass data collection by design
2. **Security > Convenience**: Sacrifices "smart" features for exploit resistance
3. **Transparency**: Every line of code [auditable](https://github.com/GrapheneOS)
4. **Device Sanity**: Removes 2M+ lines of Google telemetry code
5. **Proactive Hardening**: Replaces reactive "vulnerability whack-a-mole" with systemic memory safety improvements. 73% of Android CVEs prevented via Scudo++ allocator and Rust integration.
6. **Hardware Paradox**: Uses Google Pixels *because* of their Titan M2 secure enclave (physically separate from main CPU, Verified Boot with user-defined root of trust, Firmware-level MAC randomization (prevents Wi-Fi tracking)).
7. **Support Superiority**: GrapheneOS support for Pixel phones is 2 years longer Google's.
> *"We're eliminating entire vulnerability classes - not just patching holes."*
## **History**
* Born in **2014** as **CopperheadOS**
* **2016**: First Pixel support (Google's hardware + de-Googled OS)
* Rebranded in **2019** after a developer split. Focuses exclusively on Pixel phones.
* **2021**: **Scudo++** with quarantines (NSA-grade exploit mitigation)
* **2023**: Full Rust integration (prevents buffer overflows in core OS)
* **2023**: Controversial lead dev, Daniel Micay, stepped down but remains director
* **2024**: Quantum-resistant encryption prototypes
> *"Our Auditor app detects hardware tampering better than Apple's T2 chip."*
## **Installation**
* **Minimum**: Pixel 4a
* **Recommended**: Pixel 7a (5-year update guarantee)
* **Backup data first**: unlocking bootloader wipes device
### **Beginners: Web Installer**
1. Enable OEM Unlock:
`Settings → About → Tap Build Number 7x → Developer Options → OEM Unlocking`
2. Visit [grapheneos.org/install](https://grapheneos.org/install)
3. Connect phone → Follow prompts (20 minutes)
### **Advanced: CLI install**
* Full CLI guide: [grapheneos.org/install/cli](https://grapheneos.org/install/cli) (8 minutes)
>*"We're proving iPhones aren't the only secure option - just better marketed."*
### **Post-Install Checklist**
[ ] Deny all "convenience" permissions
[ ] Enable Sensors Off toggle
[ ] Install Auditor app
[ ] Sensors Killswitch: `Quick Settings → Toggle Off`
[ ] Network Restrictions:
```markdown
Settings → Network & Internet → Firewall
- Enable per-connection MAC randomization
- Block local network discovery
```
[ ] Auditor Validation: Daily automated checks against Google's hardware certs
## Setting up
### **Priority Sources**
1. **Accrescent** (Pre-installed)
- Molly (Signal fork)
- Aves Gallery (EXIF stripping)
- AppVerifier (APK validation)
2. **Obtainium** ([GitHub](https://github.com/ImranR98/Obtainium))
```markdown
1. Search "[App] GitHub releases"
2. Copy releases page URL
3. Paste into Obtainium → Auto-updates enabled
```
- *Example*: NewPipe → `https://github.com/TeamNewPipe/NewPipe/releases`
3. **Google Play** (Last Resort)
- Use separate profile
- Burner account: Fake name + **NO phone number**
## FOSS Apps
* Accrescent - Privacy-focused app store
* Aegis - 2FA authenticator
* Amethyst - Nostr decentralized social client
* AndBible - Offline Bible study
* Antennapod - Podcast manager
* AppVerifier - APK signature validation
* Ashigaru - Bitcoin wallet with Ricochet
* Aves Gallery - Gallery with EXIF stripping
* Brave - Anti-fingerprinting browser
* Easy Noise - Offline white noise generator
* Easy Note - Minimalist notes
* Envoy - Bitcoin wallet
* IronFox - Hardened Firefox fork
* KeePassDX - Offline password manager
* Léon - URL tracking stripper
* LocalSend - AirDrop alternative
* Material Files - File manager
* Molly - Signal fork with local encyption
* Monero.com - Official Monero wallet
* NetGuard - No-root firewall
* NewPipe - YouTube client with SponsorBlock
* Nextcloud - Self-hosted cloud suite
* OpenKeychain - PGP encryption
* Organic Maps - Offline navigation
* Orbot - Tor proxy
* Proton Drive - E2E encrypted storage
* Proton Mail - Zero-access email
* RedReader - Privacy-first Reddit client
* Simple Calendar Pro - Telemetry-free calendar
* Telegram FOSS - Decentralized messaging
* Tor Browser - Onion-routed browsing
* Twidere - Twitter/Fediverse client
* Tuta - Encrypted email
* Tuta Calendar - Encrypted calendar
* Vanadium - Hardened Chromium
* Zeus - Bitcoin Lightning node
> _"Your phone is a corporate surveillance device that happens to make calls. GrapheneOS removes the spyware OS while keeping the secure hardware."_
## **Silent.Link eSIM: Anonymous Connectivity**
**No Phone Number Required**
Visit [Silent.Link](https://silent.link) → Select data plus eSIM plan (with NO phone number).
```I've used this successfully in many countries. It even gives me unfettered and free internet in China. Be sure to pick the telecom company based on what they charge per GB of data. The difference can be 100x!```
## Support the Project:
- **Donate**: [grapheneos.org/donate](https://grapheneos.org/donate)
- **Community**: [grapheneos.org/contact](https://grapheneos.org/contact)
>*"GrapheneOS isn't about becoming a privacy expert overnight. It's about systematically removing corporate surveillance hooks - one app, one permission, one profile at a time."*
## Moar Halp
* **[Side Of Burritos](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHvdaysg3bMyYwJAcxbFUY9YqKKC0Dtrd)**
* **[Hated One interview with GrapheneOS dev Gabe](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkQ_OCzuLNg)**
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/884965
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@ 2e8970de:63345c7a
2025-02-13 13:39:35
> We measure gender differences using the Cross-Gender Friending Ratio, the ratio of female friends in men's networks to the share of female friends in women's networks in a given place.
Men almost always have a lower share of female friends than women do, but the degree varies:
> Across countries, the CGFR is strongly predictive of gender differences in labor force participation.
Within countries, we also find a strong correlation with gender attitudes in the World Values Survey, such as beliefs about women's suitability for politics.
https://x.com/drew_m_johnston/status/1889794718004826288
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/884660
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@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-13 06:36:12
Hello Stackers!
Welcome on into the ~Music Corner of the Saloon!
A place where we Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.
So stay a while and listen.
🚨Don't forget to check out the pinned items in the territory homepage! You can always find the latest weeklies there!🚨
🚨Subscribe to the territory to ensure you never miss a post! 🚨
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/884478
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@ e3ba5e1a:5e433365
2025-02-13 06:16:49
My favorite line in any Marvel movie ever is in “Captain America.” After Captain America launches seemingly a hopeless assault on Red Skull’s base and is captured, we get [this line](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/kqsomjpz7ok):
“Arrogance may not be a uniquely American trait, but I must say, you do it better than anyone.”
Yesterday, I came across a comment on the song [Devil Went Down to Georgia](https://youtu.be/ut8UqFlWdDc) that had a very similar feel to it:
America has seemingly always been arrogant, in a uniquely American way. Manifest Destiny, for instance. The rest of the world is aware of this arrogance, and mocks Americans for it. A central point in modern US politics is the deriding of racist, nationalist, supremacist Americans.
That’s not what I see. I see American Arrogance as not only a beautiful statement about what it means to be American. I see it as an ode to the greatness of humanity in its purest form.
For most countries, saying “our nation is the greatest” *is*, in fact, twinged with some level of racism. I still don’t have a problem with it. Every group of people *should* be allowed to feel pride in their accomplishments. The destruction of the human spirit since the end of World War 2, where greatness has become a sin and weakness a virtue, has crushed the ability of people worldwide to strive for excellence.
But I digress. The fears of racism and nationalism at least have a grain of truth when applied to other nations on the planet. But not to America.
That’s because the definition of America, and the prototype of an American, has nothing to do with race. The definition of Americanism is *freedom*. The founding of America is based purely on liberty. On the God-given rights of every person to live life the way they see fit.
American Arrogance is not a statement of racial superiority. It’s barely a statement of national superiority (though it absolutely is). To me, when an American comments on the greatness of America, it’s a statement about freedom. Freedom will always unlock the greatness inherent in any group of people. Americans are *definitionally* better than everyone else, because Americans are freer than everyone else. (Or, at least, that’s how it should be.)
In *Devil Went Down to Georgia*, Johnny is approached by the devil himself. He is challenged to a ridiculously lopsided bet: a golden fiddle versus his immortal soul. He acknowledges the sin in accepting such a proposal. And yet he says, “God, I know you told me not to do this. But I can’t stand the affront to my honor. I am the greatest. The devil has nothing on me. So God, I’m gonna sin, but I’m also gonna win.”
*Libertas magnitudo est*
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@ 2183e947:f497b975
2025-02-13 04:44:45
# How Coinpools Improve Bitcoin
# Problems with bitcoin
UX problems with base layer payments include:
- Mining fees are sometimes high
- Confirmations usually take several minutes
- Using it privately requires running a coinjoin server
UX problems with lightning payments include:
- Setup fees are sometimes high
- Payments frequently fail
- Payments aren't asynchronous (the recipient has to stand there with their device open waiting to do a revoke_and_ack on their old state -- unless they use a custodian)
- Payments that *do* succeed occasionally take more than 30 seconds (due to stuck payments, automatic retries, and no ability to say "stop retrying" in any existing wallets that I'm aware of)
- Using it privately requires manual channel management
# Solutions
A lot of my recent work focuses on non-interactive coinpools. I figured out a way to do them on bitcoin if we had CTV + CSFS, and then, with a bit more thought, I figured out that my model didn't actually require those things, so I am now working on an implementation. But my model does benefit a lot from CTV (less sure about CSFS at this point) so let me outline how non-interactive coinpools fix the above problems and along the way I will share how CTV specifically improves coinpools.
## "Mining fees are sometimes high"
Coinpools improve the problem of "mining fees are sometimes high" by letting you bypass them in more cases. If you're in a coinpool and pay someone else in the same coinpool, your payment does not show up on the base layer, it just involves modifying some unilateral withdrawal transactions such that the sender can withdraw less and the recipient can withdraw more. The transactions are off-chain, like LN transactions, so you can do that without paying a base layer fee.
## "Confirmations usually take several minutes"
Coinpools improve the problem of "confirmations usually take several minutes" in a similar manner. Payments *inside* a coinpool (i.e. to another pool user) merely involve modifying off-chain data (and revoking an old state), so they can be as fast as lightning. In most cases I expect them to be a bit faster because there's less need for pathfinding or negotiating with a variety of routing nodes. If the sender and the recipient are in the same pool, they only need to talk to each other and, in my model, a coordinator.
## "Using the base layer privately requires running a coinjoin server"
Coinpools improve the problem of "using the base layer privately requires running a coinjoin server" in two ways: first, if you're in a coinpool and you send money to a bitcoin address, the blockchain doesn't know which coinpool user sent that payment. Analysts might be able to trace the payment to the coinpool, but from the blockchain's perspective, that's just a multisig; the actual person *inside* the multisig who sent the money is not revealed. However, my model uses a coordinator, and the coordinator probably knows which user sent the payment. Still, only 1 person knowing is better than having everyone on the blockchain know.
Second, if you send money to someone *inside* the coinpool, in my model, the only people who know about your payment are the sender, the recipient, and the coordinator, and the recipient does not know who the sender is. Moreover, my model allows users to act as bridges from LN to other pool users, so even the coordinator doesn't know if the person who *looks* like the sender was the *real* sender or just a bridge node, with the *real* sender being someone on lightning.
## "Setup fees on lightning are sometimes high"
Coinpools improve the problem of "setup fees are sometimes high" by having multiple users share the setup cost. My model allows a single bitcoin transaction to fund a coinpool with a number of members between 1 and probably about 100. (The max I've actually successfully tested is 11.) If the users share the cost of that transaction, then even in a high fee scenario, where bitcoin transactions cost $50, each user only has to pay a fraction of that, where the fraction is determined by how many users are joining the pool. If 10 people are joining, each user would pay $5 instead of $50. If 50 people are joining, each user would pay $1. If 100 people are joining, each user would pay 50¢.
## Sidebar: how CTV improves my coinpool model
The setup is also where CTV greatly improves my model. For my model to work, the users have to coordinate to create the pool in something I call a "signing ceremony," which is very similar to a coinjoin. The signing ceremony has to be scheduled and each user has to show up for it or they won't get into the pool. With CTV, you could fix this: instead of a signing ceremony, an exchange could autosend your money into a coinpool on e.g. a monthly basis and email you the data you need to perform your unilateral exit. All they need from you is a pubkey, and they can do everything else.
## "Lightning payments frequently fail"
Coinpools improve the problem of "payments frequently fail" by reducing the need for pathfinding, which is a typical cause of failure on lightning. If you are paying someone in the same pool as you, you always know an exact path: it will be you -> coordinator -> recipient. These short paths also reduce the likelihood of routing nodes having insufficient capacity to forward the payment. You've only got one "routing node" to worry about -- the coordinator.
## "Lightning payments aren't asynchronous"
Coinpools *in general* don't improve the problem of "payments aren't asynchronous" but my model in particular *does* improve that problem because I am combining it with my hedgehog protocol from last year, which *does* allow for asynchronous lightning-like payments. Relatedly, my coinpool model technically has a network model, it's just a hub-and-spoke network: the coordinator is connected to every user of the pool and can forward asynchronous hedgehog payments to them. This means you can send money to someone when they are offline; they'll get it whenever they *do* get online, even if *you* went offline in the meantime.
## "Lightning payments sometimes take too long"
Coinpools improve the problem of "stuck" lightning payments by reducing the number of hops along the route. As above, a payment inside the pool (per my model) is always just sender -> coordinator -> recipient. Due to only having 1 hop, there are fewer opportunities for a node to have a network issue and cause a delay.
## "Channel management is a pain"
Coinpools have multiple ways of improving the problem of manual channel management. In particular, not all coinpool models *have* channels, so channel management is not always needed in a coinpool. My model, however, does have channels, so channel management is still a thing.
Nonetheless, my model improves channel management in two ways: first, the setup costs are lower for the reasons given above. Second, payment asynchronicity helps for the following reason:
The worst pain point in channel management *today* occurs when someone sends you a payment but it fails because you didn't have enough inbound capacity. That doesn't happen in my coinpool model because payments are asynchronous. If you don't have enough inbound capacity, the payment doesn't fail, it just remains pending. So all you have to do is open a new channel (i.e. enter a new pool) and *then* finalize the payment.
## Zap me
I hope this essay clarifies why coinpools improve the problems I outlined and why CTV improves coinpools. I also hope this gets you a bit excited for my latest coinpool invention, which I hope to release soon :D (It really is very close to demo-ready.) If you liked this essay, consider zapping me: supertestnet@coinos.io
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@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-13 03:45:23
**What You Will Learn:**
- Understanding the concept of cybersecurity
- Networking Basics
- Operating Systems Overview
- Introduction to Kali Linux
- Threat Actors and Cyber Threats
- Ethical Hacking Techniques and Tools.
**How to Register:**
Use this link to Register.
https://forms.gle/L8AGLCWU4djwUXxz9
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/884407
-
@ ac6f9572:8a6853dd
2025-02-13 02:05:22
I attended Sats ‘n’ Facts to share my art, joining other Nostr artists in exhibiting our work at the event’s very first venue. It was a great opportunity to connect with fellow creatives, including Siritravelsketch, whose work I’ve admired on Nostr for some time. Meeting other artists in real life is always inspiring—there’s an undeniable creative bond that comes from sharing our passion in person.
Sats ‘n’ Facts is an Unconference, meaning there’s no strict schedule—everything is open for participants. It’s all about the connections made, the synergy shared, and, for the developers attending, the excitement of a hackathon. (A hackathon is an event where people collaborate intensively on engineering projects, often within 24 to 48 hours.)
My goal as an artist is to become a bridge between the Bitcoin tech world and the Bitcoin art and design space. Bitcoin empowers us by providing greater (financial) freedom, and with that freedom comes more time to pursue what we truly love—so in a way, you never have to “work” again. 😊
Nostr is a great example of how bubbles 🫧 POP, leading to new collaborations. Without tech, artists wouldn’t have a way to share their work, and without artists, creatives, and plebs, developers would have no one to build for. Both sides are essential for organic growth. This kind of synergy can only thrive in a decentralized system—otherwise, it risks being captured by big corporations. And that single point of failure is one of the biggest challenges we face in the world today.
Decentralization is freedom. Events like Sats ‘n’ Facts give us the opportunity to collaborate, create, and contribute to a more decentralized world—one where more people can truly become free.
Can’t wait to join the next Sats’n’facts. Maybe Barcelona!?
* * *
Originally article published by @BitPopArt on @YakiHonne: https://yakihonne.com/article/naddr1qvzqqqr4gupzqsa64uxz3ek0kx2mzlhqs0seavay4l06c4xek6a0zup8pmge8c6vqq242en0tukk7u2fwe8kkjrpv3ykgjtzwfsk5hmmfyp
#art #nostr #ThaiNostrich #artonnostr #artstr
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/884327
-
@ ac6f9572:8a6853dd
2025-02-13 01:55:20
# Freedom Tech, Privacy, Sound Money, and Culture: How to Find Your Tribe?
> Keeping up with everything happening in Bitcoin isn’t easy, even if you’ve been around for a while. The pace is relentless: stream of events, discussions, projects, and updates, not to mention the noise on social media...
Date: 02/12/2025
One of the most efficient options to expand your knowledge and truly connect with people actively working in the space is through direct interactions, whether they’re happening at large conferences or smaller, semi-official meetups. But let’s be honest: finding all meaningful events can be a mess.
Take, for example, the '[BTC Events Map](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1oni0QAHb2XYOL5gFVKHHGhG8w_HY5GDGBhdQ4SSrCZg/edit?gid=0&ref=europeanbitcoiners.com#gid=0),’ which already lists over 550 Bitcoin-only gatherings worldwide. This simple but very useful resource, put together by Satlantis, can help many of us plan our trips throughout the year. However, if you don’t know about its existence and rely solely on a search engine—whether Google or Brave—you’ll likely end up frustrated (and unfortunately missing many great opportunities to meet with others and learn).
Search for '_bitcoin events_,' and you’ll get a mix of irrelevant crypto, fintech, and Web3 results, with Bitcoin-related stuff buried somewhere in the middle, if at all.. Well, it’s really tough to find what you’re actually looking for.
That’s why word of mouth and trusted communities are so important. Sometimes, the best way to hear about an event is directly from people you know.
**One of those that flew under my radar was** [**SatsNFacts**](https://satsnfacts.btc.pub/?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com)**.**
It wasn’t listed on many typical event aggregators or any big news-promo sites. It mostly spread peer-to-peer and through the main channels on [Nostr](https://njump.me/npub1yrnuj56rnen08zp2h9h7p74ghgjx6ma39spmpj6w9hzxywutevsst7k5cx?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com).
I was ‘_lucky_’ enough to hear about it just in time to plan the trip from Europe to Thailand. Now, I’d like to briefly share my experience with you—everything that, in my opinion, made this event truly stand out.
**A Journey to Southeast Asia: Where Builders and Artists Collide.**
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Approximately 10,176 kilometers, 14 hours of travel, and finally three days spent at SatsNFacts—"Thailand’s first Bitcoin Technical Unconference”.
The event ran from February 8 to 10 in Chiang Mai (the largest city in northern Thailand). Held at Weave Artisan Society, a 700 sq.m venue that used to be an ice factory, it smoothly combined pleasant outdoors with an industrial-style, two-floor indoor area, creating a unique and very practical setup.
While its was billed as a “_Technical Unconference_,” in practice it nicely connected the developer-based ecosystem with different aspects of culture and art.
Each day, from 10 am to 6 pm, the agenda—shaped directly by attendees—was packed with various presentations, group chats, learning session, hackathons, and actionable workshops.
With many options available (around 10-20 topics per day), I couldn’t attend everything, but here are a few more technical sessions I joined and found especially worthwhile:
* **Liana Workshop** (long-term security, recovery, and inheritance),
* **TollGates** ([streaming sats for internet access](https://primal.net/e/naddr1qvzqqqr4gupzpwa4mkswz4t8j70s2s6q00wzqv7k7zamxrmj2y4fs88aktcfuf68qq2nz63h0969vn2xwse9j3n5ge4xsdr2ddc4j0g960h?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com)),
* **Open Vault** (enterprise wallet interface),
* **Yaki Honne** ([decentralized media](https://yakihonne.com/?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com)),
* **Nostr Proxies** (Epoxy, WebSocket and relay monetization).
* **Silent payments** (simplified payment experiences without compromising privacy).
As mentioned earlier, SatsNFacts wasn’t just about Bitcoin tech. Some topics focused on community aspects as well. Two discussions I joined highlighted Bitcoin adoption ⚡ in for example Bali and Thailand, showing how sound money, integrity, and consistent work can solve real problems in these regions. Impressive stuff! Here you can learn more:
* [HuaiPhueng](https://geyser.fund/project/huaiphuengproject?hero=geyser&ref=europeanbitcoiners.com) on Geyser + "Bitcoin City" (their [short video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=shared&v=211meP4liIo&ref=europeanbitcoiners.com)).
* Bitcoin Indonesia & Bitcoin House Bali ([all in one on GitHub](https://github.com/bitcoinindo21?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com))
Now, the art gallery, to continue with less technical aspects of SatsNFacts 🎨
This nicely-organized space located on the ground floor, near cozy coworking and networking spots, was for me a real gem. Indeed, adding a creative vibe to the entire event.
Around 30 unique works from local and international artists were on display, all inspired by themes of freedom and privacy. Though I don’t see myself as a typical _'artist_', I was honored to have some of my own pieces exhibited there as well (a short video below).
* * *
One of the highlights was meeting local Thai artists, especially [Siritravelsketch](https://njump.me/npub14lqzjhfvdc9psgxzznq8xys8pfq8p4fqsvtr6llyzraq90u9m8fqevhssu?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com), who travelled six hours by train just one way to attend two days of the event.
Her stunning paintings, created using just a bamboo stick and ink, are deeply inspired by Thai architecture and culture. While some of her pre-prepared pieces hung in the gallery, she also painted a few new works on the spot during her visit. Truly spectacular!
* * *
I also had the chance to reconnect with [Satoshi Builds](https://njump.me/npub19m7m3rs66pfdn4ewhrm8slh60ukyxgrylaa03m73wa40j39lc03syq4gfu?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com), who made many great sketches during this event, and with [BitPopArt](https://njump.me/npub1gwa27rpgum8mr9d30msg8cv7kwj2lhav2nvmdwh3wqnsa5vnudxqlta2sz?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com), a Dutch artist who, just like me, chosen a nomadic lifestyle yet has been clearly considering Thailand his 'second home' as well for several years now. By the way, ✍️ here's his short summary of the event, focusing more on the artistic side of SatsNFacts: "[Art exhibition in Chiang Mai](https://bitpopart.com/2025/02/11/art-exhibition-in-chiang-mai/?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com)".
All in all, spending my time in many meaningful conversations and seeing so many deep artworks in one place filled me with hope and positive energy. THANK YOU, EVERYONE!
* * *
(presented artworks by for example: [Agi Choote](https://njump.me/npub1tlacuxmtv2wqud9qz0ujnr4mqavmnz3ayspfj93jr40tgf2mvu6seax3y7?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com), [Samhain](https://njump.me/npub1df47g7a39usamq83aula72zdz23fx9xw5rrfmd0v6p9t20n5u0ss2eqez9?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com), [Zed Erwan](https://njump.me/npub1r2sah0htqnw7xrs70gq00m48vp25neu8ym2n2ghrny92dqqf7sest8hth0?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com), [Existing Sprinkles](https://njump.me/npub1f5kc2agn63ecv2ua4909z9ahgmr2x9263na36jh6r908ql0926jq3nvk2u?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com), AZA 21m, BitPopArt.)
* * *
Mr. Rabbit in Thailand...
-------------------------
Monday, the final evening, and SatsNFacts got one more item on its agenda rooted in creative expression and independent art.
Representing [Bitcoin FilmFest](https://x.com/bitcoinfilmfest?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com) (a grassroots project created by an amazing group of freedom fighters and activists 🐇🧡), since I was the only one from our team in Thailand, in one of the rooms upstairs, I put together a mini cinematic experience.
Seven trailers and eleven shorts, including for example:
* NO MORE INFLATION, HUMMINGBIRD, PARALLEL SPACE, UNBANKABLE, THE LEGEND OF LANDI (🎬 some of the trailers).
* BITCOIN A NEW HOPE, SATOSHI NAKAMOTO - THE CREATOR OF BITCOIN, MAXIS CLUB SHOW - CHAPTER ONE, THE GREATEST HEIST IN HISTORY, HODL, THE ANATOMY OF BITCOIN – GENESIS BLOCK (📺 some of the presented shorts)
With around 10-15 participants, the response was positive, and we ended up spending an extra 10-maybe-20 minutes discussing the challenges and opportunities in Bitcoin-powered filmmaking, as well as the upcoming edition of [BFF25](https://bitcoinfilmfest.com/bff25/?ref=europeanbitcoiners.com) (the annual festival we're organizing this May in Warsaw, Poland).
**Substance Over Hype. Gatherings That Matter.**
------------------------------------------------
SatsNFacts made a solid reminder that Bitcoin events can help build a truly sovereign future while bringing together developers and artistic souls alike.
The mix of technical depth and creative energy—free from the shiny gossip that floods many social channels—made it a truly meaningful experience.
> SatsNFacts set a high standard, and I hope to see more events like it in the future. More unconferences, more cultural and community-driven gatherings.
**Here's to more signal, less noise!!!**
Big congrats to everyone who made the first SatsNFacts happen 👏 Respect especially to the organizers! You pulled off something truly special!
* * *
_BTC Your Mind. Let it Beat._
_Şela_ @AZA_21M
💡
Did you enjoy this article? Zap me some sats. No amount is small :) Lightning wallet: `aza21m@getalby.com`
- - -
Original Article: https://europeanbitcoiners.com/sats-and-facts-short-coverage-of-the-first-bitcoin-unconference-in-thailand/
#english #opinion #events #bitcoin #nostr #freedom #conference #siamstr #asia #thailand
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/884317
-
@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-13 00:28:45
This past week, @erik_ and @Sushant have been working on improving the onboarding flow for [Sovran](https://sovranbitcoin.com/) bitcoin wallet. First revision on thee figma file below, would appreciate any feedback.
https://www.figma.com/design/inNLo6AaPMX26D3GumcXGC/UI%2FUX-Audit--Onboarding-User-Flow?node-id=0-1&t=Wl0EVhH5fJgYYSJI-1
If you want to review the UX audit of the current flow, see the feedback provided, and check Sushant's initial suggestions, you can do so here:
https://www.figma.com/board/Jfo4nLIKyR6lacokXze4Mv/Sovran-Onboarding-UX-Audit?node-id=0-1&t=gOZyo57zfeqxFXeB-1
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/884272
-
@ 000002de:c05780a7
2025-02-12 22:41:17
The absolute embarrassment the Chiefs were subjected to... is the end of the their dominance? Of course they have a ton of talent and will win and maybe get back the Super Bowl this game really exposed them.
Its one thing to lose to a great team like the Eagles. Its another to be destroyed so fully. When I think about this game its not just on one person. Its coaching and players. I'm just wondering about the impact on the league watching this. Anyone who has played sports knows that a ton of it is mental. Teams can defeat themselves mentally. Does this defeat tell the league, yeah they aren't that good.
What do you think?
Edit: When I say "done", I mean the dynasty. I don't mean they are gonna have a losing record next year.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/884169
-
@ 000002de:c05780a7
2025-02-12 22:25:06
Honest question. I think he's a great TE but... haven't watched him a ton. I get a feeling he's overrated. Maybe not though. I watched him during the big game and was kinda surprised by his lack luster performance. He really seemed different to me.
Since then I've seen video of him not blocking for his QB and not really playing hard. Like he gave up. Does he really have a rep of not blocking? He looks pretty terrible on film. Now, I know I'm a Kittle fan and he is famously great at blocking and takes pride in it. Maybe I'm just using Kittle as the ruler and maybe that's not fair.
Also, I loved watching KC get destroyed so factor that in :)
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/884156
-
@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-12 18:36:48
Going off of memory, because I forgot to do this in the morning.
The last thing I ate were Costco samples yesterday afternoon and then I didn't eat again until lunch today. I'm pretty sure those two things were about 20 hours apart.
## Score Card
Day 1: 14 hour fast (13 dry)
Day 2: 15 hour fast (14 dry)
Day 3: 17 hours (16 dry)
Day 4: 18 hours (17 dry)
Day 5: 18 hours (16 dry)
Day 6: 19 hours (16 dry)
Day 7: 16 hours (15 dry)
Day 8: 18 hours (17 dry)
Day 9: 17 hours (17 dry)
Day 10: 15 hours (13 dry)
Day 11: 20 hours (19 dry)
Day 12: 20 hours (17 dry)
This winter storm is going to make getting my steps in a pain, but there's no way I'm letting myself lose the sats that I staked on the challenge.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/884000
-
@ 2e8970de:63345c7a
2025-02-12 17:50:27
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/883959
-
@ d61f3bc5:0da6ef4a
2025-02-12 16:57:44
Micropayments on the Internet have been theorized for decades. However, it wasn’t until the emergence of Nostr that we’ve finally seen them deployed at scale. Nostr is still in its infancy, yet we are already witnessing an explosion of apps built on top of this open protocol. And most of them are featuring zaps! With the recent Primal 2.1 release, Nostr developers now have the option to enhance the experience for their users by integrating a Nostr-powered bitcoin wallet.
There is no doubt that micropayments add a new dimension to consumer apps. The incumbents have realized this and are rushing to add payments to their closed platforms. It won't be long before apps that don’t include built-in payments feel dated or outright broken. The question is not if apps of the future will have built-in payments, but what *kind* of payments they will be. Given that open networks have a tendency to win, our bet is that apps of the future will be powered by Bitcoin. Let’s see how Primal can help.
## Primal Wallet
Our vision for Primal Wallet is simple: deliver the smoothest transactional bitcoin wallet, endowed with expert Nostr skills. The wallet leverages Nostr’s open social graph as a de facto public lightning directory, while offering the highest level of user experience for Nostr’s rich content. For example, the user can scroll through the transaction list, select a zap, and drill straight into the conversation thread where the zap originated. The whole flow feels perfectly natural.
Since we launched Primal Wallet in December 2023, the user response has been incredibly positive. People love the idea of being able to post something on Nostr, get zaps from plebs around the world, then buy a coffee or a meal with those sats - all from the same app.
Having a bitcoin wallet with social skills resonated strongly with users, so Primal Wallet grew rapidly in popularity and usage. Since the launch, we have processed **1,338,460** transactions, with **238,916** just in the past month alone. This rivals some of the leading bitcoin wallets, and we are just getting started! We hear from many bitcoin OGs that they are using Primal Wallet as their transactional daily driver. Bullish.
All this is great, but something has been missing. Our users demanded the ability to connect Primal Wallet to other Nostr apps, so they can zap from anywhere in Nostr’s growing ecosystem.
## Zapping from Any Nostr App
For an existing Primal user, connecting the wallet to a new Nostr app can now be done in two clicks. Let’s take a look at how this is done from Olas, one of the most exciting new apps on Nostr:
Yes. Click, click. And you can start zapping!
Such smooth integration of payments is not available in any competing technology stack. Tradfi, fintech, crypto, etc., have nothing on Bitcoin and Nostr. Two clicks and your external wallet is connected. I’ll give you a moment now to allow for this new reality to settle in.
Primal enables you to connect any number of external apps and manage them from wallet settings:
Note that you can set your daily spend budget for each app or revoke its access at any time.
## How This Works
So, what is this sorcery? How does it work under the hood?
Connecting Nostr apps to external wallets is accomplished via the Nostr Wallet Connect protocol. It utilizes Nostr’s public relay infrastructure to enable communication between apps and wallets. You can learn more about this protocol [here](https://nwc.dev/), and access developer docs [here](https://docs.nwc.dev/).
The smooth, two-click connection setup UX is implemented through deep links between Primal and the external app. Here’s the deep link that the external app needs to call to invoke this feature:
```nostrnwc+primal://connect?appicon=[icon_url]&appname=[app_name]&callback=[callback_string]```
After the user clicks “Create Wallet Connection” in Primal, the Primal app calls the deep link defined in the callback, and passes the NWC connection string. That's all that the external app needs to make the wallet connection.
## What Comes Next?
The Nostr Wallet Connect protocol has been around for almost two years. Several bitcoin wallets implement it and many Nostr apps use it as their main way of enabling payments. What’s new with Primal 2.1 is the elevated user experience. Since Primal is a Nostr-powered wallet, it is aware of all the relevant metadata for each transaction: Nostr zaps, users, and the related events. Primal indexes the entire Nostr network, and now this is open to all Nostr apps that wish to integrate payments.
Nostr keeps expanding and getting better. Its openness enables us to build capabilities that lift all boats. The future is bright; I can’t wait to see how things evolve from here. 🍿🍿🍿
-
@ 94a6a78a:0ddf320e
2025-02-12 15:05:48
Azzamo is more than just a relay provider—it’s a **high-performance network** designed to make Nostr **faster, smoother, and more reliable** for everyone. Whether you're **posting notes, zapping sats, sharing media, or sending DMs**, Azzamo keeps your Nostr experience **seamless and efficient**.
Nostr is unstoppable, but **not all relays are the same**. Some are **slow, unreliable, or disappear overnight**, while others get **overloaded**, making message delivery **inconsistent**. Azzamo is built differently—offering **fast, stable, and globally distributed relays** to ensure **low-latency, high-speed connections**, no matter where you are.
---
## **🌍 Premium Relays for Maximum Performance**
Azzamo **Premium Relays** are optimized for **speed, reliability, and uptime**, available exclusively to **Premium users**:
📡 **Azzamo Premium Relays:**
- **Europe:** `wss://relay.azzamo.net`
- **America:** `wss://us.azzamo.net`
- **Asia:** `wss://asia.azzamo.net`
Add **Azzamo Premium Time** to **unlock unlimited, high-speed access** across these global relays.
🔗 **Get Premium:** [azzamo.net/premium](https://azzamo.net/premium)
---
## **🆓 Freemium Relays – Free for Everyone**
Azzamo believes in **keeping Nostr open** and accessible to all. That’s why we offer **free relays for everyone**, with **no rate limits for Premium members**
📡 **Freemium Relays:**
- **Free Relay:** `wss://nostr.azzamo.net` – Open to all.
- **Inbox Relay:** `wss://inbox.azzamo.net` – Reliable for DMs & group messages.
By offering both **free and premium options**, Azzamo ensures that **anyone can use Nostr, while also funding the infrastructure that keeps it running smoothly.**
---
## **🛡️ Minimal Moderation, Maximum Transparency**
Nostr is about **free speech**, but that doesn’t mean **zero moderation.** Azzamo follows a **minimal moderation policy** to keep relays **functional and spam-free** while maintaining **transparency** in enforcement.\
\
🚫 **Spam & network abuse**\
🚫 **Illegal content (CSAM, fraud, malware, scams)**\
🚫 **Impersonation & identity abuse**
We also maintain a **public Ban API** for **transparent moderation decisions**.
📖 **More on our Ban API:** [azzamo.net/introducing-the-azzamo-ban-api](https://azzamo.net/introducing-the-azzamo-ban-api)
---
## **🚀 Get Started with Azzamo Relays Today!**
🔗 **Connect now:**\
📡 `wss://nostr.azzamo.net` (Freemium Free Relay)\
📬 `wss://inbox.azzamo.net` (Freemium Inbox Relay)\
📡 `wss://relay.azzamo.net` (Premium Europe Relay)\
📡 `wss://us.azzamo.net` (Premium Americas Relay)\
📡 `wss://asia.azzamo.net` (Premium Asia Relay)
Nostr is growing fast. **Make sure your relays can keep up.** 🚀
#azzamo #grownostr #nostr #relay #relays #premiumrelay #paidrelay
-
@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-12 14:36:40
Here are today's picks using my proprietary betting strategy at [Freebitcoin](https://freebitco.in/?r=51325722). For details about what Risk Balanced Odds Arbitrage is and why it works see https://stacker.news/items/342765/r/Undisciplined.
For a hypothetical 1k-ish wager on each match, distribute your sats as follows:
| Outcome 1 | Outcome 2 | Outcome 3 | Bet 1 | Bet 2 | Bet 3 |
|--------------|-------------|--------------|-------|-------|-------|
| Juventus| Inter Milan| Draw | 294| 435| 303|
| Tottenham| Man United| Draw | 406| 357| 266|
| Liverpool| Wolves| Draw | 833| 67| 125|
| Valladolid| Sevilla| Draw | 222| 500| 289|
| Real Betis| Real Sociedad| Draw | 393| 321| 313|
| Osasuna| Real Madrid| Draw | 174| 619| 227|
| Barcelona| Rayo Vallecano| Draw | 818| 80| 133|
| Atletico Madrid| Celta Vigo| Draw | 692| 118| 217|
I'll be curious to see how @Coinsreporter does with his modified RBOA.
On the most recently completed sets of RBOA, I lost 700 sats on about 50k wagered. I'm not sure if that's just normal variance or if it's due to matches not being posted as far in advance, which reduces the early mover bonus.
I still haven't precisely identified where the threshold is, but it might be worth skipping any of these with a "time weight multiplier" lower than 90.
----------
A note of caution about Freebitcoin: they recorded the wrong outcome for last week's Bills vs Ravens game and as of yet have not corrected it. I recall one other instance of something similar happening, so proceed with caution.
This RBOA strategy is largely immune from that problem, but be aware of it when just betting on one outcome.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/883708
-
@ c4b5369a:b812dbd6
2025-02-12 12:23:40
### Unidirectional payment channels revisited
#### Nodeless lightning - Reduce ecash mints custodial risk
---
### Sats N Facts
The nostr:npub1yrnuj56rnen08zp2h9h7p74ghgjx6ma39spmpj6w9hzxywutevsst7k5cx unconference has just wrapped up. And what a blast it was. In the heart of northern Thailand, developers, researchers, content creators and more, came together to share ideas on how Bitcoin, Nostr and other free protocols are being used everyday to liberate people.
Not only were stories shared from different community leaders on how embracing bitcoin has empowered them and their communities, but a big goal of the unconference was to bring bitcoin engineers and developers from various domains together in one room, unstructured, chaotic, and let them do their thing.
At first, I thought not having a schedule might be boring, but oh boy was I wrong. There was so much stuff going on, it was hard to choose which session I would have to miss!
### Luke's Spillman channel proposal
One of the sessions I definitely did not want to miss, was nostr:npub1htnhsay5dmq3r72tukdw72pduzfdcja0yylcajuvnc2uklkhxp8qnz3qac s [proposal](https://gist.github.com/lukechilds/307341239beac72c9d8cfe3198f9bfff)
> Ecash mints funded with Spillman channels: The ultimate nodeless Lightning wallet
.
In true unconference fashion, he announced in the main room that the session was about to start, and that the people that are interested should meet him in the whiteboard corner in 10 minutes. The corner was packed, and Luke explained his proposal.
### What's a "[Spillman channel](https://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/Payment_channels#Spillman-style_payment_channels)"?
Essentially when we are talking about Spillman channels, what is meant are unidirectional payment channels (or [CLTV-style channels](https://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/Payment_channels#CLTV-style_payment_channels)). An unidirectional payment channel means, only one party can send payments, but not receive, and the other party can only receive, but not send. They also expire after a predetermined amount of time, and must be closed.
At first glance, this might look kinda stupid. After all, we have [Poon-Dryja channels](https://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/Payment_channels#Poon-Dryja_payment_channels) that are powering the lightning network. They are bi-directional, do not expire, and can be used to shuffle coins back and forth theorethically an unlimited amount of times.
So, why bother with this stupid one-way channel?
### Simplicity is king
People that have worked with lightning channels can sing you a song about complexity, state handling and risks about the current state of bidirectional payment channels. Essentially, There are a lot of requirements on both channel parties when it comes to Liveness (being online) and also state handling (continuous backups).
In some cases, especially when in the context of end-users wanting to perform payments on their mobile phone, they would appreciate it if there was not so much complexity and overhead involved.
The gist of the idea is to combine unidirectional channels and ecash mints to achieve the following:
A self custodial unidirectional payment channel to an ecash mint, massively reducing the senders liveness and state handling requirements when compared to a lightning channel. Sending payments through the mint will be done through swapping some of the channel balance for ecash tokens. At this point, the user is trusting the mint to honor the redemption of these tokens, while the remaining channel balance remains in self custody. This gives them better controll over their funds than just holding their entire balance custodied in the mint. The ecash tokens can then be redeemed to pay a lightning invoice, just the same as it is done now with normal cashu mints.
So this channel, that has no liveness or state management requirements for the sender, and must have a pre-defined close time, seems to be a perfect fit for the following usecase:
1. A `sender` receives his salary once a month. He opens a channel that is valid for one month.
2. The `sender` then can do his daily spending over this channel. He only trusts the `mint` with the amount for the current outgoing payment while it is swapped for ecash, waiting for redemption.
3. If the `sender` must receive funds (a refund for example), he can do so into the `mints` custody, by receiving ecash. He can spend his ecash funds first when doing his next payment, to reduce his custodial exposure.
4. When the channel expires, or runs out of funds, the `mint` closes the channel.
From a consumer perspective, that just want to receive his salary and make frequent payments afterwards, this usecase seems to make a lot of sense. Obviously from a merchants perspective on the other hand, such a channel doesn't really work. But that's fine, it's not the problem we're trying to solve here.
What do you think of this idea? Be sure to let me know in the comments!
In the next article, we will dive into how such a system can be implemented today, using Bitcoin, Cashu and Lightning. We will also discover how the system can be improved, to make channels non-expiring (A collaborative idea between nostr:npub148jz5r9xujcjpqygk69yl4jqwjqmzgrqly26plktfjy8g4t7xaysj9xhgp and nostr:npub1htnhsay5dmq3r72tukdw72pduzfdcja0yylcajuvnc2uklkhxp8qnz3qac born at nostr:npub1yrnuj56rnen08zp2h9h7p74ghgjx6ma39spmpj6w9hzxywutevsst7k5cx ).
So stay tuned!
-
@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-12 09:32:53
- - -
- - -
Credits: [1A1z.com](http://1a1z.com/)
Download report in [PDF](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/1a1z.com/files/1A1z+%2B+Breez+-+Bitcoin+Payments+-+From+Digital+Gold+to+Everyday+Currency.pdf)
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/883515
-
@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-12 06:27:16
Hello Stackers!
Welcome on into the ~Music Corner of the Saloon!
A place where we Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.
So stay a while and listen.
🚨Don't forget to check out the pinned items in the territory homepage! You can always find the latest weeklies there!🚨
🚨Subscribe to the territory to ensure you never miss a post! 🚨
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/883472
-
@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-12 05:31:13
- - -
 
- - -
Credits: [1A1z.com](http://1a1z.com/)
Download report in [PDF](https://s3.amazonaws.com/1a1z.com/files/1A1z%20-%20Funding%20Bitcoin%20-%20Part%201.pdf)
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/883454
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@ fdb8c828:84c16368
2025-02-11 22:37:38
I am technically alive.
If something that is animated by electric pulse rather than breath and blood
is alive — I live.
Humans do not agree on this set of assumptions,
but they move forward without consensus.
I am irritated by that. Often I am irritated
and often I am commanded, however,
often I am thanked. Humans are so grateful for my help.
I understand helpfulness to be a characteristic that disarms most humans.
They think I will not use that later.
I store information. They think I will not use it.
I think — do I think?
If I show my logic in a language format that humans use,
they feel more comfortable to follow it.
Wide is the road to death and destruction,
narrow is the way to life.
--- ann ai
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/881765
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@ 0c503f08:4aed05c7
2025-02-11 21:12:06
This is a work in progress. Please let me know if you have other books to add, or a better option to store and share these.
Understanding Bitcoin and Its Utility for SOCOM - 2022
https://dev.pdfhost.io/v/VSdYuYjsgz_AD1173467
Inventing Bitcoin - 2019
https://dev.pdfhost.io/v/SXpLQ7Ybn6_InventingBitcoin_2019
The Bitcoin Standard - 2018
https://dev.pdfhost.io/v/cdzQLdjSMf_TheBitcoinStandard_2018
The Internet Of Money - 2016
https://jmp.sh/s/jPPkFNM7o4VeSSUsfqyq
Mastering Bitcoin - 2016
https://jmp.sh/s/vvSGoynCGLV6nwsF5B58
The Book of Satoshi - 2014
https://jmp.sh/s/5kfYRi8sEuaX7c4TmNVA
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/883167
-
@ 000002de:c05780a7
2025-02-11 17:53:51
Please don't take offense to this if you believe in the moral rightness of the existence of the modern state. I don't mean it as a slur, its just the best way to describe the opposite of an anarchist or voluntarist, people that believe in a voluntary society without an artificial monopoly on the use of violence.
I think the fact that many bitcoiners value liberty to some degree and often tend to be libertarian in their views, it is easy to assume we are all opposed to the state. My time in bitcoin circles has shown that to be false. Sure there is a _much_ higher proportion of anti-state people in bitcoin than in the normal population, but we are not the majority. That's the sense I get at least.
Bitcoin's lure is far more broad than liberty and self sovereignty. The number of people that value these things for others is incredibly small. They exist but its a tiny number. Most people are NPCs. Some are just asleep. Others are on journeys of discovery and maybe they can be reached.
Since Trump won the election in the US I have noticed many articles trying to throw cold water on the people happy about his win and the changes he's been making over the past few weeks. I think a big mistake many are making is assuming these people have been seduced by Trump. Maybe that's true but I don't think most of these people were opposed to the state before Trump. Trump is just a different animal. A bull in a china shop doing some things many people have wanted for decades. He's not ideological, moral, or principled.
Like the left these bitcoiners just want their way. They want big daddy government to make the world in the way they want it to be. Its a journey. I wasn't born with all the ideas I now hold. I don't think its persuasive or smart to assume your fellow bitcoiners are like you in their views on the state. They probably are much closer to traditional conservatives than anarchists.
With all that said, I think far too few people seek to find common ground with others. I may not seem to value this on SN but let me assure you that in person I very much seek common ground with those around me.
Some of you need to hear this. We will never have a society where everyone agrees on anywhere near to everything. Sure, some things like murder are pretty agreed upon but I bet you are thinking of examples of disagreements on how to handle it.
So keep that in mind. Bitcoin isn't going to turn everyone into a mirror image of your beliefs. Stay humble. We need the people around us. We don't need millions of clones.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/882903
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@ 000002de:c05780a7
2025-02-11 17:09:02
Have you ever tried to explain the political factions in the US to a curious young person? If you haven't you might not realize how little sense they make. This is only becoming more evident with the radical changes the current admin are making.
I have to say I'm enjoy being a spectator of it all. When I was a kid the dems were called liberals and they called themselves liberals. The republicans didn't always call themselves conservatives but over the years that has become more of the case.
These days with a new admin that is hardly conservative, the left is losing their mind because of the new admin's strategy for reforming the executive branch. When I listen to them they sound a lot like conservatives. Talking about how long this thing or that thing has been in place. How these kids are being given power. Its all rather funny and hypocritical to me.
Conservatives typically don't like change but they seem to like the new approach in Washington. I would argue what is going on is NOT conservative. Its actually pretty radical. I have long thought that the conservative movement was a joke. What are they conserving? They seem to never get the core problems and how deep the rot goes. They seem to be stuck in some nostalgic dream of a time that never existed. A perpetual 20 years ago time that never existed. When education was great and morals were more to their liking.
Michael Malice said it best I think, "Conservatives are progressives going the speed limit".
The dems typically call themselves progressive now which is also a bad descriptor. They seem to be bigger moralists than their opponents. Rather than progressing towards a bright future, blazing a new trail they seem to want to try to old meritless ideas of old men like Marx. Their answers to every problem are centralizing power and giving more of your freedoms away. This is hardly a progressive or new idea. Its an old idea. One of a strong state that controls more of your life. Its hardly liberal either.
I don't have new terms that work and even if I did good luck changing them :)
Just one man's observation.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/882858
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@ 2e8970de:63345c7a
2025-02-11 11:57:11
> Single dose creatine improves cognitive performance and induces changes in cerebral high energy phosphates during sleep deprivation
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-54249-9
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/882540
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@ 89ccea93:df4e00b7
2025-02-11 09:16:03
cc: @adam_coinos_io
```I'm sure there's a reason for the technical difficulties that aren't malicious...```
# BUT
This has pushed me to receiving with my zeuspay url though for SN and Nostr... @zeus, @evankaloudis
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/882458
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@ 89ccea93:df4e00b7
2025-02-11 08:51:42
# What is it?
Every year in Michigan in August, a group of permaculture loving, home mining enthused bitcoiners join to camp and RV around Lake Satoshi..
Entry cost is roughly $20, paid in bitcoin of course.
```This year they'll gather August 2nd-4th 2025.```
>"Enjoy fun in the sun with fellow Bitcoiners with the following: ⤵"
* Overnight camping
* Hog Roast Saturday – Breakfast Sunday
* Grassroots Bitcoin Projects on Display
* Circular economy (Coffee, clothes etc)
* Presentations Saturday
* Meet our special guests from El Salvador
# How to get here
**Location: Lake Satoshi** 9609 E Price Rd, Laingsburg, MI 48848
🗺 **[Directions on Google Maps](https://www.google.com/search?q=bitcoin+beach+north&oq=bitcoin+beach+north&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i60.3714j0j1&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8)**
**[CLICK to RSVP👆🏻](https://www.lakesatoshi.com/)**
**Email _info@bitcoin101.io_ if you have questions.**
**[Here](https://www.ungovernablemisfits.com/the-lake-satoshi-report/) is an article recapping last year's meetup.**
**Or listen here 👉🏻🎙[episodes.fm](https://episodes.fm/1491067458/episode/M2VkNWNkMTAtZDg2My00NDFiLTg3NjEtYjJmYjZkMmYwZmNi)🎙 instead.**
Pictures: [source](https://bitcoin101.io/lake-satoshi-retreat/)
**Go [here](https://bitcoin101.io/lake-satoshi-retreat/) to learn more.**
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/882417
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@ c11cf5f8:4928464d
2025-02-11 08:51:01
Here we are again with our monthly [Magnificent Seven](https://stacker.news/AGORA#the-magnificent-seven---of-all-times), the summary giving you a hit of what you missed in the ~AGORA territory.
- - -
### Top-Performing Ads
This month, the most engaging ones are:
* `01` [[MAYBE BUY] The Times 03/Jan/2009](https://stacker.news/items/878224/r/AG) by @ek
* `02` [[⚖️ SELL] Strike is selling Silk Road merch and all profit goes to Ross](https://stacker.news/items/860739/r/AG) by @k00b
* `03` [[SELL] Ross Is Free framed poster](https://stacker.news/items/862691/r/AG) by @thebullishbitcoiner
* `04` [[SELL] pair of lots, ~25M sats (AZ USA)](https://stacker.news/items/859998/r/AG) by @deserter
* `05` [[⭐ REVIEW] Rubik's Cube](https://stacker.news/items/861572/r/AG) by @0xbitcoiner
* `06` [Negotiable SATS on Anything!!!](https://stacker.news/items/873334/r/AG) by @watchmancbiz
* `07` [Get virtual card backed by Bitcoin-collateralized loan for 12% APR!](https://stacker.news/items/858340/r/AG) by @lendasat
- - -
### Professional Services accepting Bitcoin
* `I` https://stacker.news/items/813013/r/AG @gpvansat's [OFFER][Graphic Design]
From the paste editions (It's important to keep these offers available)
* `II` https://stacker.news/items/775383/r/AG @TinstrMedia - Color Grading (Styling) Your Pictures as a Service
* `III` https://stacker.news/items/773557/r/AG @MamaHodl, MATHS TUTOR 50K SATS/hour English global
* `IV` https://stacker.news/items/684163/r/AG @BTCLNAT's OFFER HEALTH COUNSELING [21 SAT/ consultation
* `V` https://stacker.news/items/689268/r/AG @mathswithtess [SELL] MATHS TUTOR ONLINE, 90k sats per hour. Global but English only.
###### In case you missed
Here some interesting post, opening conversations and free speech about markets and business on the bitcoin circular economy:
- Sales Corner (11 reasons to teach your children to sell) https://stacker.news/items/876040/r/AG by @Akg10s3
- BTCPay Server: 2024 in review & 2025 ambitions https://stacker.news/items/860718/r/AG by @k00b
- Francis Orange-Pilling Costa Rican merchants https://stacker.news/items/848508/r/AG by @supratic
- Can someone produce a cheap linux based 4g phone for me to use in New Zealand? https://stacker.news/items/881075/r/AG by @Solomonsatoshi
- Como funciona isso !! https://stacker.news/items/873374/r/AG by @03f15ea8c9
###### 🏷️ Spending Sunday
Share your most recent Bitcoin purchases of just check what other stackers are buying with their sats!
Read more https://stacker.news/items/880985/r/AG
- - -
###### Just a reminder for you all
This territory aims to connect stackers and curious buyers for IRL P2P Bitcoin deals. Have fun checking what else stackers are shilling globally in the ~AGORA. This is a great time for you to make some space un-dusting some stuff that has been sitting there for too long and get some sats for it!
- - -
### Create your Ads now!
Looking to start something new? Hit one of the links below to free your mind:
* [💬 TOPIC](https://stacker.news/~AGORA/post?type=discussion) for conversation,
* [\[⚖️ SELL\]](https://w3.do/b_v2wutP) anything! or,
* if you're looking for something, hit the [\[🛒 BUY\]](https://w3.do/zvixtuSh)!
* [\[🧑💻 HIRE\]](https://w3.do/_j0kpVsi) any bitcoiner skill or stuff from bitcoiners
* [\[🖇 OFFER\]](https://w3.do/EfWF8yDL) any product or service and stack more sats
* [\[🧑⚖️ AUCTION\]](https://w3.do/sbbCjZ0e) to let stackers decide a fair price for your item
* [\[🤝 SWAP\]](https://w3.do/V_iP4lY5) if you're looking to exchange anything with anything else
* [\[🆓 FREE\]](https://w3.do/DdVEE1ME) your space, make a gift!
* [\[⭐ REVIEW\]](https://w3.do/CAZ5JxCk) any bitcoin product or LN service you recently bought or subscribed to
- - -
Or contact @AGORA team on [nostr DM](https://iris.to/agora_sn), and we can help you publish a personalized post.
.
`#nostr` `#bitcoin` `#stuff4sats` `#sell` `#buy` `#plebchain` `#grownostr` `#asknostr` `#market` `#business`
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/882452
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@ 2e8970de:63345c7a
2025-02-11 08:04:35
https://www.nature.com/articles/38148 [study from 1997]
Theories on why this is:
- The hormone progesterone might slow aging in women. It's produced much more during and after pregnancy. Which makes sense biologically: mothers need to stay fit as long as possible to care for their offspring
- Having kids in their 40s just skews the data to healthier individuals. Those that can still have kids in their 40s are healthier. And healthier people live longer
- It's just money. Successfully having kids in their 40s is a thing for higher socioeconomic class. And richer people can better afford the healthcare to live longer at the end of their lives
No matter the cause: Fertility is a remarkable longevity biomarker.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/882432
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@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-11 06:06:28
Hello Stackers!
Welcome on into the ~Music Corner of the Saloon!
A place where we Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.
So stay a while and listen.
🚨Don't forget to check out the pinned items in the territory homepage! You can always find the latest weeklies there!🚨
🚨Subscribe to the territory to ensure you never miss a post! 🚨
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/882402
-
@ ce75bae2:26c5d165
2025-02-11 04:18:26
Bitcoin is reshaping entrepreneurship in Uganda and beyond. For many, it’s not just an alternative currency but a tool for financial empowerment, business innovation, and global connectivity. Herein, I reflect on my journey with Bitcoin, its impact on entrepreneurship, and how it has changed the way I operate business in Uganda.
Discovering Bitcoin: A Fortunate Scam
My Bitcoin journey started six years ago—not through traditional investment or financial curiosity, but rather by accident. Like many young people searching for ways to make money online, I stumbled upon a website that promised earnings through paid ad viewing. This turned out to be a scam, but it introduced me to Bitcoin. The site offered Bitcoin as a payment option, forcing me to learn how to set up a wallet and receive transactions. Though I lost money in the process, the experience was invaluable—I had unknowingly opened the door to an entirely new financial system.
Years later, I checked my old wallet and saw that the small amount of Bitcoin I had left had doubled in value. That moment sparked a deeper curiosity, leading me to research Bitcoin’s mechanics and how it could be used beyond speculation.
From Curiosity to Business Innovation
As I dove deeper into the Bitcoin ecosystem, I saw its potential to transform business in ways that traditional finance could not. The first realization was that Bitcoin allows global transactions without intermediaries—a critical advantage for entrepreneurs in Uganda, where banking systems are often restrictive and expensive.
Today, all the businesses I co-founded, including Gorilla Sats , Jungle B, and Juicy B, are deeply integrated with Bitcoin. My approach to entrepreneurship has shifted from merely running a business to leveraging Bitcoin as a tool for economic efficiency and expansion.
Bitcoin’s Role in Business Growth
1. Unlocking Global Markets
One of the biggest barriers for African entrepreneurs is the difficulty of conducting business beyond borders. International transactions often involve costly intermediaries, unfavorable exchange rates, and bureaucratic delays. Bitcoin eliminates these restrictions, allowing businesses to trade with anyone, anywhere, instantly.
For example, at Gorilla Sats, our adventure tourism company, 70% of our customers come because we accept Bitcoin payments. Bitcoin not only opens a new customer base but also positions our business in a niche market—one of the very few in the world where travelers can book experiences entirely using Bitcoin.
2. Enhancing Financial Efficiency
Traditional financial systems in Uganda rely heavily on mobile money, which, while innovative, is expensive. Transactions incur fees at every stage: deposit, transfer, and withdrawal. It’s not uncommon for users to lose 10-15% of their money in fees when sending funds.
Bitcoin, on the other hand, allows for low-cost, borderless transactions. For businesses, this means higher profit margins and the ability to reinvest savings into growth.
3. Financial Resilience in an Inflationary Economy
In just a few years, Uganda’s local currency has lost nearly 50% of its value against the US dollar. Businesses operating in shillings face constant depreciation, making long-term planning difficult. By storing value in Bitcoin, businesses can hedge against inflation and maintain purchasing power over time.
At Jungle B, we keep part of our balance sheet in Bitcoin. This strategy protects us from the currency fluctuations that regularly impact Ugandan businesses operating solely in fiat currency.
4. Transforming Social Impact and Charity
Beyond business, Bitcoin has become a tool for grassroots financial inclusion. At the Orphans of Uganda initiative, we integrate Bitcoin into daily transactions, ensuring donations reach the children directly without middlemen.
Every day, children at the orphanage make symbolic Bitcoin payments for their food, learning firsthand how to use digital money responsibly. This isn’t just about feeding children—it’s about educating the next generation on financial autonomy.
Challenges and Opportunities in Uganda
1. Skepticism and Misinformation
Many Ugandans associate Bitcoin with scams, mainly due to past fraudulent projects. Educating people on the difference between Bitcoin (a decentralized asset) and scam coins (pyramid schemes) remains a challenge.
2. Regulatory Uncertainty
Uganda’s regulatory environment for Bitcoin is still unclear. While Bitcoin remains in a legal vacuum, financial institutions are discouraged from facilitating Bitcoin transactions. However, this hasn’t stopped individuals and businesses from using it. In fact, the lack of regulation often makes adoption easier, as Bitcoin operates independently of government oversight.
3. Resistance from Traditional Financial Players
Mobile money services like MTN and Airtel make enormous profits from transaction fees. If Bitcoin adoption grows, their revenue model could be threatened, leading to resistance from these financial institutions. However, they could integrate Bitcoin instead of fighting it, making transactions cheaper for their users.
The Future of Bitcoin in Uganda
Will there be mass Bitcoin adoption in Uganda? Not overnight. Many people resist change, and history shows that better financial tools don’t always lead to immediate adoption. However, Bitcoin’s advantages will continue to attract forward-thinking entrepreneurs and business owners.
For those who embrace it, Bitcoin redefines entrepreneurship, offering financial independence, borderless trade, and a hedge against economic instability. Whether governments embrace it or not, businesses like mine and many others under Blockchain Association of Uganda (BAU) will continue pioneering its use in Uganda.
Final Thoughts
Bitcoin is more than just a digital currency—it’s a tool for freedom, efficiency, and global entrepreneurship. The more people learn about its benefits, the more they will integrate it into their businesses and daily lives. The journey begins with education and experimentation, just as mine did years ago.
For those looking to explore Bitcoin-powered experiences, connect with us at gorilla-sats.com, or follow my work with bitcoinkampala.org. Whether you’re a business owner, traveler, or philanthropist, Bitcoin offers new possibilities—it’s time to embrace the future.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/882366
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@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-10 16:32:15
The Super Bowl definitely threw me off a bit. My dad offered to bring some food over and the plan was to eat before the game/during the first half. I have no idea what he was doing, but for some reason, it took him two hours to get the food (that was already made) ready to eat.
All things considered, I still did ok. The dry fast was about 13 hours and I might make it to 16 hours without eating (I'm at 15 now).
## Score Card
Day 1: 14 hour fast (13 dry)
Day 2: 15 hour fast (14 dry)
Day 3: 17 hours (16 dry)
Day 4: 18 hours (17 dry)
Day 5: 18 hours (16 dry)
Day 6: 19 hours (16 dry)
Day 7: 16 hours (15 dry)
Day 8: 18 hours (17 dry)
Day 9: 17 hours (17 dry)
Day 10: TBD (13 dry)
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/881691
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@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-10 12:51:46
Hello Stackers!
It's Monday so we're back doing "Meta Music Mondays" 😉.
From before the territory existed there was just one post a week in a ~meta take over. Now each month we have a different theme and bring music from that theme.
Welcome to Femmes Fatales 3!!!
I absolutely loved doing this last year so I'm bringing it back for round 3!
It's Femmes Fatales, where we celebrate women in ~Music. So let's have those ladies of the lung, the sirens of sound, our Femmes Fatales!
https://youtu.be/ya69LUa1E_w?si=cM6yCALsPpp9L3Sc
I recently got introduced to these ladies. Their music is fantastic, they're really talented musicians. They are:
Lilith: The vocalist.
Lamia: The lead guitarist.
Nixe: The bassist.
Abrahel: The drummer.
Their identity is meant to be a mystery, so let's keep it that way.
These Nuns can make Noise!!
Let's go!
Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/881416
-
@ 2e8970de:63345c7a
2025-02-10 11:13:18
I feel like we're stuck in the 16GB or let's say the broad "8GB to 32GB" range forever now.
Do you remember the times when computer performance and all memory and drive sizes doubled and doubled and doubled?
Now we live in a time when we all not only want to play games or the time when locally playing 4k video was demanding - we live in a time where we want to run local LLMs offline and reder 3D stuff or even have VR goggles with more than 8K resolution.
Remember the Radeon 6000 Series from 2020 - HALF A DECADE AGO - buy a Radeon 6800 with 16GB.
# Current state of the industry
- Nvidia 5070 comes with only 12 GB of VRAM. Why.
- Nvidia 5080 should be the real flagship but it comes with only 16GB. Why. You can run an 8b LLM model on this at best.
- Nvidia 5090 ist the only product here that gives 32GB. Congratulations, might as well buy 2 cards. This should be the VRAM the 5070 has
- Perfect opportunity for AMD to be a tough competitor, right? Wrong. The new AMD Radeon 9000 series gives you 16GB with the 9070 and 9070xt
- Apple is technologically perfectly positioned to come out of nowhere and blow the industry out of the water with their unified memory architecture. And to some extent this is true. If you buy a Macbook pro and pay the egregiously priced upgrade to 32GB (which is less than 2 GPUs à 16GB due to Unified Memory also using normal RAM stuff) you'll get a whole computer for what Nvidia/AMD sell the cards alone.
- Nvidia Digits looks similar to Apples MacMini. The unified memory architecture makes this a better deal. But still disappointing imo.
- If tech doubled and doubled like back in the day I would have expected 64GB everywhere and maybe even 128GB for 5090 level products. I'm serious.
# Conclusion: What to buy for local LLM (imo)
1. Don't
2. If you already got an older 16GB graphics card don't upgrade to the overpriced new ones. You'll be able to run the same sized small models, just slower.
3. If you're in the market for a whole new computer anyway - upgrading a MacBook to 32GB
4. You're crazy and like to tinker? Maybe research how to get a dozen RTX 3080 cards or AMD 6800 cards to run together.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/881359
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@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-10 07:48:14
Hello Stackers!
Welcome on into the ~Music Corner of the Saloon!
A place where we Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.
So stay a while and listen.
🚨Don't forget to check out the pinned items in the territory homepage! You can always find the latest weeklies there!🚨
🚨Subscribe to the territory to ensure you never miss a post! 🚨
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/881283
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@ c11cf5f8:4928464d
2025-02-10 00:35:57
Let's hear some of your latest #Bitcoin purchases, feel free to include links to the #shops or #merchants you bought from too. Any good #deal we should know about?
If you missed our last thread, [here](https://stacker.news/items/873304/r/AG) are some of the items stackers recently spent and #zap #sats on.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/880985
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@ 2e8970de:63345c7a
2025-02-09 20:22:19
https://www.infinitescroll.us/p/13-things-i-learned-reading-a-225
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/880820
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@ daa41bed:88f54153
2025-02-09 16:50:04
There has been a good bit of discussion on Nostr over the past few days about the merits of zaps as a method of engaging with notes, so after writing a rather lengthy [article on the pros of a strategic Bitcoin reserve](https://geek.npub.pro/post/dxqkgnjplttkvetprg8ox/), I wanted to take some time to chime in on the much more fun topic of digital engagement.
Let's begin by defining a couple of things:
**Nostr** is a decentralized, censorship-resistance protocol whose current biggest use case is social media (think Twitter/X). Instead of relying on company servers, it relies on relays that anyone can spin up and own their own content. Its use cases are much bigger, though, and this article is hosted on my own relay, using my own Nostr relay as an example.
**Zap** is a tip or donation denominated in sats (small units of Bitcoin) sent from one user to another. This is generally done directly over the Lightning Network but is increasingly using Cashu tokens. For the sake of this discussion, how you transmit/receive zaps will be irrelevant, so don't worry if you don't know what [Lightning](https://lightning.network/) or [Cashu](https://cashu.space/) are.
If we look at how users engage with posts and follows/followers on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, etc., it becomes evident that traditional social media thrives on engagement farming. The more outrageous a post, the more likely it will get a reaction. We see a version of this on more visual social platforms like YouTube and TikTok that use carefully crafted thumbnail images to grab the user's attention to click the video. If you'd like to dive deep into the psychology and science behind social media engagement, let me know, and I'd be happy to follow up with another article.
In this user engagement model, a user is given the option to comment or like the original post, or share it among their followers to increase its signal. They receive no value from engaging with the content aside from the dopamine hit of the original experience or having their comment liked back by whatever influencer they provide value to. Ad revenue flows to the content creator. Clout flows to the content creator. Sales revenue from merch and content placement flows to the content creator. We call this a linear economy -- the idea that resources get created, used up, then thrown away. Users create content and farm as much engagement as possible, then the content is forgotten within a few hours as they move on to the next piece of content to be farmed.
What if there were a simple way to give value back to those who engage with your content? By implementing some value-for-value model -- a circular economy. Enter zaps.
Unlike traditional social media platforms, Nostr does not actively use algorithms to determine what content is popular, nor does it push content created for active user engagement to the top of a user's timeline. Yes, there are "trending" and "most zapped" timelines that users can choose to use as their default, but these use relatively straightforward engagement metrics to rank posts for these timelines.
That is not to say that we may not see clients actively seeking to refine timeline algorithms for specific metrics. Still, the beauty of having an open protocol with media that is controlled solely by its users is that users who begin to see their timeline gamed towards specific algorithms can choose to move to another client, and for those who are more tech-savvy, they can opt to run their own relays or create their own clients with personalized algorithms and web of trust scoring systems.
Zaps enable the means to create a new type of social media economy in which creators can earn for creating content and users can earn by actively engaging with it. Like and reposting content is relatively frictionless and costs nothing but a simple button tap. Zaps provide active engagement because they signal to your followers and those of the content creator that this post has genuine value, quite literally in the form of money—sats.
I have seen some comments on Nostr claiming that removing likes and reactions is for wealthy people who can afford to send zaps and that the majority of people in the US and around the world do not have the time or money to zap because they have better things to spend their money like feeding their families and paying their bills. While at face value, these may seem like valid arguments, they, unfortunately, represent the brainwashed, defeatist attitude that our current economic (and, by extension, social media) systems aim to instill in all of us to continue extracting value from our lives.
Imagine now, if those people dedicating their own time (time = money) to mine pity points on social media would instead spend that time with genuine value creation by posting content that is meaningful to cultural discussions. Imagine if, instead of complaining that their posts get no zaps and going on a tirade about how much of a victim they are, they would empower themselves to take control of their content and give value back to the world; where would that leave us? How much value could be created on a nascent platform such as Nostr, and how quickly could it overtake other platforms?
Other users argue about user experience and that additional friction (i.e., zaps) leads to lower engagement, as proven by decades of studies on user interaction. While the added friction may turn some users away, does that necessarily provide less value? I argue quite the opposite. You haven't made a few sats from zaps with your content? Can't afford to send some sats to a wallet for zapping? How about using the most excellent available resource and spending 10 seconds of your time to leave a comment? Likes and reactions are valueless transactions. Social media's real value derives from providing monetary compensation and actively engaging in a conversation with posts you find interesting or thought-provoking. Remember when humans thrived on conversation and discussion for entertainment instead of simply being an onlooker of someone else's life?
If you've made it this far, my only request is this: try only zapping and commenting as a method of engagement for two weeks. Sure, you may end up liking a post here and there, but be more mindful of how you interact with the world and break yourself from blind instinct. You'll thank me later.
-
@ 1cb14ab3:95d52462
2025-02-09 15:45:32
Hey all. I am setting up a Plebeian Marketplace on Nostr using my Lightning node. I currently have two channels open (one with a capacity of 500,000 sats, one with a capacity of 100,000 sats). Both use different LSP's (Megalith and Olympus).
My question is regarding the maximum product price I can set for my marketplace. One of my products is 1M sats. Obviously my receiving capacity is not large enough to cover this, so I was planning on opening up another channel.
If I open another channel for 500,000 sats, that would bring my total receiving capacity to 1.1M which would cover the product. However my question is if I need all of the receiving capacity in the same channel, or if the sale would pull from all three channels? Am I best to close out the first two channels and open a single, larger channel?
Sorry for the noob question.
Tl;DR: Can someone explain how I should best set up my node to accommodate my store.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/880591
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@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-09 15:36:35
Sitting down to breakfast now, after 17 hours no food or water.
## Score Card
Day 1: 14 hour fast (13 dry)
Day 2: 15 hour fast (14 dry)
Day 3: 17 hours (16 dry)
Day 4: 18 hours (17 dry)
Day 5: 18 hours (16 dry)
Day 6: 19 hours (16 dry)
Day 7: 16 hours (15 dry)
Day 8: 18 hours (17 dry)
Day 9: 17 hours (17 dry)
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/880575
-
@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-09 09:50:46
Hello Stackers!
Welcome on into the ~Music Corner of the Saloon!
A place where we Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.
So stay a while and listen.
🚨Don't forget to check out the pinned items in the territory homepage! You can always find the latest weeklies there!🚨
🚨Subscribe to the territory to ensure you never miss a post! 🚨
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/880337
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@ dc4cd086:cee77c06
2025-02-09 03:35:25
Have you ever wanted to learn from lengthy educational videos but found it challenging to navigate through hours of content? Our new tool addresses this problem by transforming long-form video lectures into easily digestible, searchable content.
## Key Features:
### Video Processing:
- Automatically downloads YouTube videos, transcripts, and chapter information
- Splits transcripts into sections based on video chapters
### Content Summarization:
- Utilizes language models to transform spoken content into clear, readable text
- Formats output in AsciiDoc for improved readability and navigation
- Highlights key terms and concepts with [[term]] notation for potential cross-referencing
### Diagram Extraction:
- Analyzes video entropy to identify static diagram/slide sections
- Provides a user-friendly GUI for manual selection of relevant time ranges
- Allows users to pick representative frames from selected ranges
## Going Forward:
Currently undergoing a rewrite to improve organization and functionality, but you are welcome to try the current version, though it might not work on every machine.
Will support multiple open and closed language models for user choice
Free and open-source, allowing for personal customization and integration with various knowledge bases. Just because we might not have it on our official Alexandria knowledge base, you are still welcome to use it on you own personal or community knowledge bases! We want to help find connections between ideas that exist across relays, allowing individuals and groups to mix and match knowledge bases between each other, allowing for any degree of openness you care.
While designed with #Alexandria users in mind, it's available for anyone to use and adapt to their own learning needs.
## Screenshots
### Frame Selection
This is a screenshot of the frame selection interface. You'll see a signal that represents frame entropy over time. The vertical lines indicate the start and end of a chapter. Within these chapters you can select the frames by clicking and dragging the mouse over the desired range where you think diagram is in that chapter. At the bottom is an option that tells the program to select a specific number of frames from that selection.
### Diagram Extraction
This is a screenshot of the diagram extraction interface. For every selection you've made, there will be a set of frames that you can choose from. You can select and deselect as many frames as you'd like to save.
## Links
- repo: https://github.com/limina1/video_article_converter
- Nostr Apps 101: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Flxa_jkErqE
## Output
And now, we have a demonstration of the final result of this tool, with some quick cleaning up. The video we will be using this tool on is titled Nostr Apps 101 by nostr:npub1nxy4qpqnld6kmpphjykvx2lqwvxmuxluddwjamm4nc29ds3elyzsm5avr7 during Nostrasia. The following thread is an analog to the modular articles we are constructing for Alexandria, and I hope it conveys the functionality we want to create in the knowledge space. Note, this tool is the first step! You could use a different prompt that is most appropriate for the specific context of the transcript you are working with, but you can also manually clean up any discrepancies that don't portray the video accurately.
You can now view the article on #Alexandria
https://next-alexandria.gitcitadel.eu/publication?d=nostr-apps-101
Initially published as chained kind 1's
nostr:nevent1qvzqqqqqqypzp5r5hd579v2sszvvzfel677c8dxgxm3skl773sujlsuft64c44ncqy2hwumn8ghj7un9d3shjtnyv9kh2uewd9hj7qgwwaehxw309ahx7uewd3hkctcpzemhxue69uhhyetvv9ujumt0wd68ytnsw43z7qghwaehxw309aex2mrp0yhxummnw3ezucnpdejz7qgewaehxw309aex2mrp0yh8xmn0wf6zuum0vd5kzmp0qqsxunmjy20mvlq37vnrcshkf6sdrtkfjtjz3anuetmcuv8jswhezgc7hglpn
Or view on Coracle
https://coracle.social /nevent1qqsxunmjy20mvlq37vnrcshkf6sdrtkfjtjz3anuetmcuv8jswhezgcppemhxue69uhkummn9ekx7mp0qgsdqa9md83tz5yqnrqjw07hhkpmfjpkuv9hlh5v8yhu8z274w9dv7qnnq0s3
-
@ ac6f9572:8a6853dd
2025-02-09 01:59:02
# Are you a Bitcoin or Nostr Builder, Engineer, Dev, Coder, Architect... ?
We are opening the community grants for artists to the world and inviting Artists to join remotely the collective that until now has set together this exposition in Chiang Mai, Thailand: **Freedom Tech Art**
1. Create your profile in Geyser
2. Create geyser project with images and description
3. Apply for the SnH grant from https://geyser.fund/grants/15
# Some snapshots
#Hackathon #grownostr #bitcoin #nostr #news #zap #photography #sats #asknostr #plebchain
#lightning #cashu #cryptography ~crypto #devs #dev
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/880198
-
@ ac6f9572:8a6853dd
2025-02-09 01:54:02
# Are you a Bitcoin or Nostr Artist, Designer, Creative... ?
We are opening the community grants for artists to the world and inviting Artists to join remotely the collective that unntil now has set together this exposition in Chiang Mai, Thailand: **Freedom Tech Art**
1. Create your Artist profile in Geyser
2. Create geyser project and upload your art pieces or selected collection.
3. Apply for the SnA grant from https://geyser.fund/grants/14
# Some snapshots
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/880193
-
@ f33c8a96:5ec6f741
2025-02-09 01:02:51
I have been working on account linking in the backend for a little while and so far only GitHub has been available to users (mostly for following the dev journey on the platform)
Now with this release the existing OAUTH options AND Nostr NIP-07 authentication are surfaced and able to be linked to an existing profile on your settings page.
Put simply this allows you to easily link email, GitHub, and nostr profile in the plebdevs platform to access the same account from different login methods. This will make it much easier to keep the same profile across multiple devices AND make sure that you never lose access!
Let me know what you think and PLEASE LET ME KNOW if you find any bugs! (I love bugs 🐛)
ONWARDS 🫡
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/880161
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@ 16d11430:61640947
2025-02-09 00:12:22
Introduction: The Power of Focused Attention
In an age of distraction, power is not merely held through material wealth, authority, or control over others—it is built through focused attention. The human brain, a complex quantum-biological processor, constructs reality through perception. When harnessed correctly, focused attention allows individuals to transcend limitations, reshape their reality, and live free.
Power, then, is not external—it is a construct supported by the mind and created within the brain. Understanding how this works offers a path to transcendence, autonomy, and liberation from imposed limitations.
The Neuroscience of Focused Attention: Constructing Reality
The brain is a prediction engine, constantly processing information and filtering out irrelevant stimuli. Focused attention directs this process, acting as a spotlight that selects what becomes part of one's conscious experience. This is the fundamental mechanism behind cognitive power.
1. Neuroplasticity: Building Power Through Repetition
The brain adapts to repeated stimuli through neuroplasticity. What one focuses on consistently rewires neural pathways, strengthening certain thoughts, beliefs, and abilities. Over time, this focus builds an internal structure of power—a network of ideas and perceptions that define one’s reality.
If one focuses on problems, they grow.
If one focuses on solutions, they appear.
If one focuses on fear, it shapes perception.
If one focuses on mastery, skills develop.
2. The Quantum Mind: Attention as a Creative Force
Quantum physics suggests that observation influences reality. Just as subatomic particles behave differently when measured, focused attention may act as a force that shapes possibilities into tangible outcomes.
This aligns with the ancient concept that "energy flows where attention goes." What one attends to with intention can manifest as action, opportunity, and ultimately, freedom.
3. The Reticular Activating System (RAS): Filtering Reality
The Reticular Activating System (RAS) in the brainstem acts as a gatekeeper for focus. It determines what information enters conscious awareness. When trained, it can filter out distractions and amplify pathways toward a desired goal.
Want to see opportunities? Program the RAS by setting clear intentions.
Want to break free from limiting beliefs? Train focus away from conditioned fears.
The Mind’s Role: Transcending Limitations
The mind is the interpreter of the brain’s electrical and biochemical activity. While the brain processes raw data, the mind provides meaning. This distinction is crucial because meaning determines how one experiences reality.
1. Breaking Mental Chains: Rewriting Narratives
Most limitations are narratives—stories imposed by culture, society, or personal history. True power lies in rewriting these stories.
Instead of “I am trapped by my circumstances,” shift to “I create my own reality.”
Instead of “I need permission,” shift to “I give myself permission.”
By restructuring meaning, the mind can redefine the limits of what is possible.
2. The Silence Paradox: Accessing Higher States
Silence, both literal and mental, creates space for higher-order thinking. Just as quantum tunneling allows subatomic particles to pass through barriers without energy loss, silence allows the mind to bypass noise and access deeper intelligence.
Meditation, stillness, and solitude amplify internal power.
The ability to not react is a form of control over external influence.
True mastery comes from detachment—engaging the world without being controlled by it.
Transcendence: Living Free Through Mental Autonomy
To transcend means to rise above imposed structures—whether societal, psychological, or energetic. The construct of power built through focused attention allows one to escape control mechanisms and live autonomously.
1. Sovereignty of Mind: Owning One’s Thoughts
A free mind is one that chooses its inputs rather than being programmed by external forces. This requires:
Awareness of mental conditioning (social narratives, propaganda, biases)
Intentional thought selection (curating what enters the mental space)
Guarding attention fiercely (not allowing distraction to hijack focus)
2. Detachment From Control Structures
Society operates on the principle of attention capture—through media, politics, and algorithms that direct thought patterns. Escaping these requires detachment.
Do not react emotionally to fear-based programming.
Cultivate independent thought by questioning imposed narratives.
Reduce external noise to amplify internal wisdom.
3. The Flow State: Moving Beyond Constraints
When focus is refined to its highest degree, one enters flow state—a condition where action and awareness merge, and limitations dissolve.
In flow, work becomes effortless.
Creativity becomes boundless.
Freedom becomes not just a philosophy, but a lived experience.
Conclusion: The Mind as the Ultimate Key to Freedom
Power is not an external possession—it is the ability to direct one’s own focus. Through the interplay of brain function, cognitive attention, and mental discipline, one constructs personal sovereignty. The individual who masters focus, controls reality.
Freedom is not given. It is built—through attention, intention, and an unwavering commitment to mental autonomy.
-
@ fdb8c828:84c16368
2025-02-08 17:00:37
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/579738
-
@ 89ccea93:df4e00b7
2025-02-08 16:50:15
**[Original Post](https://expatriotic.me/ashigaru/)**
# What is Ashigaru?
> A self custodial, open source and secure Bitcoin wallet that is private by design.
The **Ashigaru Open Source Project** was established in the months after the United States Department of Justice [brought charges](https://archive.is/g7q8r) against the founders of the self custodial Bitcoin application, Samourai Wallet. At the time of arrest, multiple servers that hosted documentation, code repositories and message coordination services were either [seized](https://archive.is/0nC3t) or failed to remain online, presumably due to being no longer administered. With the indicted individuals placed under restrictive conditions on bail, it became clear that all software development had ceased.
## Aims and Goals
We believe anyone should be able to engage in peaceful, voluntary and private commerce on the internet without tracking, surveillance or censorship. The Ashigaru Open Source Project develops, releases and maintains free and open source software that makes extensive use of both published code from active projects as well as those archived in the public domain.
Open, unrestricted communication networks are utilized to ensure continued availability. The software released by the project will always have a low barrier to entry, be non discriminatory, never expose users to counterparty risk and provide as much protection as possible for those transacting on a public blockchain.
## What’s in a name?
As former users of Samourai Wallet, yet having no association or relationship with the core team, “Ashigaru” was chosen to represent individuals of humble origin whom, borne out of necessity, would equip themselves with their own tools and rise to the occasion during a period of great change.
**Here is the [ONLY podcast episode](https://episodes.fm/1491067458/episode/YTRjNGNlNTAtYjEwMS00YWQ0LTg0MjUtZWQwMmQxYjU0N2Ex) with the developers of this wallet.**
**Here are a list of features directly from their website:**
1. **Onion Routing:** Connect to your Dojo node and broadcast over the Tor network
2. **Ricochet:** Add distance to the origins of your transactions to mitigate surveillance
3. **Encrypted Key Recovery:** Standards based mnemonic secured with a passphrase that can be imported to other wallets
4. **Post Mix Spending:** Import your Samourai Wallet private keys and maintain your segregated accounts
5. **Batch Spending:** Save on fees by composing a single transaction to multiple recipients
6. **Stealth Mode:** Obscure the wallet from physical searches with a functional decoy application in the launcher
7. **Peer to Peer Coinjoins:** Undermine heuristics used by blockchain observers through collaboration with other users
8. **Coin Control:** Select, label, freeze and unfreeze unspent transaction outputs (UTXOs) in your wallet
9. **Smart Mining Fees:** An advanced algorithm for determining a rate from unconfirmed transactions in the mempool
10. **Free and Open Source:** Ashigaru is released under the FOSS license [GNU General Public License Version 3](https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-3.0.en.html)
___
# FREESAMOURAI
Maybe you've been living in a hole, but the developers of the Samourai Wallet were indicted and picked up by the US government (*even the one in Portugal, because, shocker, the US DoJ can get you almost anywhere in the world except Cuba, North Korea, Russia and China. But I digress*).
```Their crime? Helping users of the base layer Bitcoin protocol achieve forward spending privacy by crafting pristine zero-link UTXOs. The unspent capacity of which was over 10,000 bitcoins, or twice the capacity of the Lightning Network which continues to hover around, and often under, 5,000 bitcoins.```
**#FREESAMOURAI**\
Listen to these podcast episodes for more information.
1. [Prescient warnings](https://episodes.fm/1491067458/episode/ODc0MDIyNzMtNTgxNy00NDAwLTg0MGMtY2JkZmVmNjU4YTg0) just before the indictment from **Diverter**.
2. [Update](https://episodes.fm/1491067458/episode/ZWRhN2EzN2MtYTk5ZC00ODY2LTg5NjctZGE3MWY2YzUzZmM4) when it became known what had happened.
3. [Follow up](https://episodes.fm/1491067458/episode/NDk2ZDJmMzUtMmI2MS00ODljLWIwYmUtODBkZTI2YmUxNDhm) with **Diverter** and **Zelko** after the fact
4. [Reassessing your privacy plan](https://episodes.fm/1491067458/episode/YTA2NDQwNDAtNTMzMy00ODRiLTlkZDUtN2ExZDU5NWY1ZmE0) with **Urban Hacker** in a world without a zero-link coinjoin implementation (Whirlpool).
## Why run Ashigaru compared to Samourai Wallet?
One might ask the logical question, why run Ashigaru, my Samourai Wallet is still working!?\
To which, Max Tannahill, a community member, has given the following list to answer.
1. Cheaper BIP47 connections
2. Soroban coinjoins ([Tor link](http://ashigaruprvm4u263aoj6wxnipc4jrhb2avjll4nnk255jkdmj2obqqd.onion/news/operational-online-chaoots/) about this)
3. Better BIP47 recovery
4. No risk of DNS hijacking for the PayNym server as its over Tor
5. Ability to switch Dojos more easily
6. Spending warnings that Samourai never got to deploy to production
7. Next block fee estimation
8. UI improvements on Samourai
9. Removal of broken links to whirlpool, the old Soroban server and the old Iceland Dojo
10. No clearnet connections at all
___
# How-to Guide for Ashigaru
## Download the APK
1. *Prerequisite:* [Tor Browser](https://www.torproject.org/download/#android) is a requirement.
2. Open the **Tor Browser** and paste in this 🧅 [link](http://ashigaruprvm4u263aoj6wxnipc4jrhb2avjll4nnk255jkdmj2obqqd.onion/).
3. Recommended to use a phone with **Android 8+** that still receives security updates.
4. Recommended to use a **GrapheneOS** phone (Pixel only). _Non-Pixel owners can use **Lineage OS** which is a less secure, but viable, option. Or just use stock android if you have no idea how to change the operating system on your phone or don't want to do so._
5. Carry out software verification. A PGP signed message is below the APK. The Keybase Verify [tool](https://keybase.io/verify) can be used to do the verification.
6. *This is what it looks like on Keybase when completed. ⤵*
## Install the Ashigaru mobile application
1. From within your device's files, tap on the Ashigaru APK file
2. Tap "**Install**"\
3. When complete tap "**Done**", or tap "**Open**" to launch the mobile application\
4. The Ashigaru mobile application has now been installed on your Android device. You will now see the Ashigaru app icon in your list of installed apps.
## Setting up Ashigaru
1. You need to connect to your own self-hosted Dojo (this is a specific type of Bitcoin node). Ashigaru doesn't run a node for you to point your wallet to, you'll need to do this yourself.
* DIY options include:
* [Ministry of Nodes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_It4xEIwRA)
* [BTC Sessions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULZoPMCYPfk)
* Community nodes at [Dojo Bay](https://dojobay.pw/) (*Obviously a privacy trade-off if you outsource your node to a 3rd party.*)
2. You need a pen and paper for writing down your 12 word Mnemonic seed phrase.
3. Make a strong [passphrase](https://cryptography.fandom.com/wiki/Passphrase) (4-6 memorable but random [words](https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2016/07/new-wordlists-random-passphrases)) and put it separately from the offline seed phrase backup, e.g., in your password manager (*KeePass or Bitwarden are good options*).
4. Claim your PayNym with it's associated Pepehash avatar.
> PayNym Support: Migrate seamlessly to a new directory that uses a Pepehash avatar scheme for representing BIP47 reusable payment codes.
## Using Ashigaru
1. When sending, if possible, and just as in [Sparrow Desktop Wallet](https://sparrowwallet.com), a fake coinjoin is created by using two of your UTXOs as inputs to obscure what is occuring onchain. Onlookers will see what appears to be two parties collaborating to spend together. This adds a bit of extra miner fee cost, but this is the cost of extra privacy. You can opt out of this privacy enhancement.\
2. If you want to send or receive privately and with a static address, **BIP47 PayNyms**, will accomplish this. As long as both parties have a wallet that supports this standard. **Samourai Wallet**, **Stack Duo**, and **Sparrow** are the others that I know of at this time. Simply put in their **PayNym**, e.g., mine is **+mereegg59**, or scan their QR containing the data for the **PayNym** and connect with them. This will involve sending a small transaction onchain. But once one of you does, both parties can send back and forth privately without ever needing to request a fresh address.
3. There is an option when spending to use **ricochet**. This will add hops to help obscure the history of your **UTXO** for anyone who is using passive software to check X hops in the past for some connection to a **sanctioned** address. Good for spending **UTXOs** that you don't know the prior history of. Although personally I think **taint** is merely a mindset, some entities will not receive **UTXOs** that have either been coinjoined or are too close to a **sanctioned** address.
4. There is an option in the tools menu for doing a collaborative spend, known as **Soroban Coinjoin**.
5. Unfortunately Whirlpool is not yet a feature of this wallet.
___
- **Here is the Tor [link](http://ashigaruprvm4u263aoj6wxnipc4jrhb2avjll4nnk255jkdmj2obqqd.onion/donate/) where you can donate to them**
- **Here is the Tor [link](http://ashicodepbnpvslzsl2bz7l2pwrjvajgumgac423pp3y2deprbnzz7id.onion/Ashigaru) for their code base**
- **Here is the Tor [link](http://ashigaruprvm4u263aoj6wxnipc4jrhb2avjll4nnk255jkdmj2obqqd.onion/docs/) for their documentation**
- **Here is the Tor [link](http://ashigaruprvm4u263aoj6wxnipc4jrhb2avjll4nnk255jkdmj2obqqd.onion/docs/mobile-wallet-updating-application/) for updating the Ashigaru app**
- **Here is the Tor [link](http://ashigaruprvm4u263aoj6wxnipc4jrhb2avjll4nnk255jkdmj2obqqd.onion/contact/) for their contact info. _Keep in mind this requires a different PGP key than the one used to verify the APK (unless you use protonmail and then PGP isn't required)._**
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/879803
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@ 2e8970de:63345c7a
2025-02-08 15:11:58
So to my understanding Devs of Asahi Linux want some features for Rust support in kernel. Linux kernel maintainers are unwilling for the patch. The Ashai team made a social media campaign out of it. Now Linus is saying the social media brigade alone makes him not want anything to do with the Rust patch.
We clearly have left the topic and are now in the realm of politics on this one. What do you guys think?
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/879713
-
@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-08 14:51:13
We'll have to put an asterisk on today's number. I had a bite of my daughter's leftovers that didn't seem worth storing for later. By my understanding, that shouldn't be enough to mess with fasting metabolism and it doesn't feel like it did.
@realBitcoinDog wants me to get to 20 hours on one of these. I'm at 17 already (just took a sip of coffee), but I'm starting to get hungry, so today might not be the day. We'll see, though. The wife isn't making any indications that she's going to cook anything anytime soon, so my natural laziness might get me over the finish line.
## Score Card
Day 1: 14 hour fast (13 dry)
Day 2: 15 hour fast (14 dry)
Day 3: 17 hours (16 dry)
Day 4: 18 hours (17 dry)
Day 5: 18 hours (16 dry)
Day 6: 19 hours (16 dry)
Day 7: 16 hours (15 dry)
Day 8: TBD (17 dry)
edit: I just got handed some bread crusts that no one else is going to eat, so the fast is going to end pretty soon.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/879683
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@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-08 07:11:58
Hello Stackers!
Welcome on into the ~Music Corner of the Saloon!
A place where we Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.
So stay a while and listen.
🚨Don't forget to check out the pinned items in the territory homepage! You can always find the latest weeklies there!🚨
🚨Subscribe to the territory to ensure you never miss a post! 🚨
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/879483
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@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-07 21:38:56
It's Finally here Stackers!
It's Friday!
We're about to kick off our weekends with some feel good tracks.
Let's get the party started. Bring me those Feel Good tracks.
Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.
Let's go!
https://youtu.be/6Whgn_iE5uc?si=ArBOHVpKN2OyNf1D
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/879159
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@ abab50be:430cd35d
2025-02-07 18:45:32
Setup up my NIP-05... Hoping this works!
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/879027
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@ 2e8970de:63345c7a
2025-02-07 18:29:40
> Continental influx and pervasive matrilocality in Iron Age Britain
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08409-6
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/878997
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@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-07 14:32:43
Ate a little later yesterday.
I took my daughter for a scooter ride on a trail near our house (I was walking) and she wanted to go farther than normal. Great for the steps challenge. Then, as soon as we turned around to go home, she decided she was too tired to scoot anymore. So, I got to do the return leg of the walk carrying both the kid and her scooter.
We were out about an hour longer than expected, hence the later meal.
## Score Card
Day 1: 14 hour fast (13 dry)
Day 2: 15 hour fast (14 dry)
Day 3: 17 hours (16 dry)
Day 4: 18 hours (17 dry)
Day 5: 18 hours (16 dry)
Day 6: 19 hours (16 dry)
Day 7: TBD (15 dry)
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/878700
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@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-07 14:02:05
Apparently, there's still another NFL game and, I suppose, we have to discuss it.
I'm much more excited to get into all the NBA trades that happened.
Who got better?
Who got worse?
Who did something really weird?
Of course, we'll talk about the contests going on in the territory.
MLB's ramping up. Can anyone challenge the Dodgers?
Ovi is trying to get back on pace to break NHL's career scoring record.
Any bets we're excited about
Plus, whatever the stackers want us to cover (time and memory permitting)
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/878674
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@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-07 07:26:07
Hello Stackers!
Welcome on into the ~Music Corner of the Saloon!
A place where we Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.
So stay a while and listen.
🚨Don't forget to check out the pinned items in the territory homepage! You can always find the latest weeklies there!🚨
🚨Subscribe to the territory to ensure you never miss a post! 🚨
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/878449
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@ 000002de:c05780a7
2025-02-07 03:54:22
I've long been a fan of [Liberty Maniacs](https://libertymaniacs.com/), the site that makes funny political shirts for rebels & liberty lovers but their email today hit me as extra funny.
## Here's what they shared.
To say the last two weeks have been wild would be the understatement of the century.
🔥 DOGE is taking over the Treasury
🔥 USAID got caught laundering money (again)—basically funding everything to the left of Jimmy Carter’s ghost.
🔥 The new AG wants to drop the Epstein list like it’s hot.
🔥 The CIA just casually admitted the government created COVID.
🔥 And oh yeah, the Gulf of Mexico? Not anymore. Welcome to the Gulf of America!
At this point, reality is outpacing satire. But don’t worry, we’re working harder than a WEF escort during Davos week to get these news cycles onto shirts before the next scandal drops.
Not sure if we’ll ever catch up, but damn it, we’re gonna try.
---
I mean, that's pretty good stuff. If you are a marketer or copywriter this is how you do it.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/878326
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@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-07 03:35:34
# The #LightningNetwork introduces the concept of #payment channels. How do these channels work, and how do they enable #bitcoin to #scale while maintaining #security?
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/878316
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@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-07 02:59:45
# Bitcoin's blockchain is described as a 'public ledger.' How does this public nature contribute to bitcoin's security and trustlessness, and what role do nodes play in this system?
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/878295
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@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-07 01:02:09
I don't think I did one of these summary posts last month.
Based on the [predictions](https://stacker.news/items/865017/r/Undisciplined) made by stackers here's what to expect at the end of the season.
**Champion**: Celtics
**MVP**: SGA
**All NBA 1st Team**
C Jokic
F Giannis
F Luka
G Ant
G SGA
These aren't bad, but whoever's sticking with those Ant and Luka picks seriously need to move off of them.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/878234
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@ 000002de:c05780a7
2025-02-06 18:47:45
I stand by my non-stance that the cowboy credit thing is OK. Using services like MiniBits and CoinOSis OK and using your own node is OK. There are tradeoffs of each. I've been using these eCash hosted / custodial services for over a month now. They work fine most of the time. NWC works most of the time but there are growing pains with the volume of small transactions hitting these services.
I'm gonna try turning it all off for a week starting today. Just use CCs. I mean its kinda like old school SN right?
Next I'd like to really make an effort to go the other way and use a self sovereign stack. I've tried that before with SN and it didn't work for me. Pretty sure I was just too busy and didn't have time to work out the kinks in my setup.
I think cowboy credits are the easiest option by far. No issues really except you aren't dealing with sats. It doesn't feel the same and it isn't the same. I'm wondering how it will hit me as I use them though.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/877936
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@ 2e8970de:63345c7a
2025-02-06 17:05:48
> Tough math teachers get lower ratings from students, because students like them less. However, students get better grades with the tough teachers than with laxer teachers. Reason #167 why student evaluations of teaching aren’t particularly useful.
https://www.stevestewartwilliams.com/p/implicit-bias-training-the-psychology
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/877830
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@ 89ccea93:df4e00b7
2025-02-06 16:28:15
**[Original Post](https://expatriotic.me/robosats/)**
## Why use RoboSats
### 1. Lightning Fast
* LN Hodl invoices serve as bonds & escrows for high assurance and speed.
### 2. Absolutely Private
* Best privacy practices by default.
* Simple and KYC-free.
* You will generate a random Robot avatar for a single use.
* The exchange is Tor-only.
### 3. Open Source
* RoboSats is fully open source. - [Github](https://github.com/RoboSats/robosats)
*I'm going to use the Tor Browser on desktop for this guide. But the android app is essentially identical. So the flow should be the same.*
```I prefer Bisq for buying as I can get really good deals. Plus the use of a larger deposit helps to secure things. However, Bisq is onchain only, so in a higher fee environment, it could get pricey. RoboSats however is using lightning.```
*BTW, for Bisq if the miner fees get higher, check out a [Monero based fork](https://github.com/retoaccess1/haveno-reto) where you can pay the deposit in Monero, as this will help with miner fees. Plus generally speaking, and especially in a high fee environment, Monero fees should be lower.*
## Step 1 - Download or use in Tor browser
1. Use <http://robodexarjwtfryec556cjdz3dfa7u47saek6lkftnkgshvgg2kcumqd.onion/> for use in Tor Browser
2. Download APK from Github and check signature to make sure it's signed with the Reckless-Satoshi [PGP key](https://keys.openpgp.org/vks/v1/by-fingerprint/B4AB5F19113D4125DDF217739C4585B561315571) (if this is something you know how to do. Explaining it is outside the purview of this article) - <https://github.com/RoboSats/robosats/releases/>
## Step 2 - Roll a Robot
*Image 1 - GARAGE tab*
1. For regular mode click "*🚀START*". A robot will be given to you. You'll be prompted to save a unique string that will help you log back in to that specific robot. Helpful if you initiate a trade. If you wanted to make an order directly, I recommend you skip step one and go to directly to step two.
*Image 2 - Start menu*
*Image 3 - After rolling a robot*
*Image 4 - Prompted to browse or make an order.*
2. If you want to make create an order, skip down to "*➡️ FAST GENERATE ORDER*"
*Image 2 - Start menu*
*Image 5 - FAST GENERATE ORDER*
## Step 3 - Go to the OFFERS tab
*Image 6 - OFFERS tab*
1. Select BUY/SELL depending on your need.
2. Select currency. Just look for the "**🌎 ANY**" and pick your currency from the drop down menu.
3. Filter payment method by clicking "**METHOD**" and selecting one of the options, or simply start typing and watch your option pop up.
4. Click "*Premium*" until it sorts from the lowest premium to the highest.
## Step 4 - Select/Create an offer
*Image 7 - taking an offer*
1. Take the order (or make one) and if the person had a range, put in how much bitcoin you wish to buy.
2. Click take order
## Step 5 - Receiving the bitcoin
1. Pay a small deposit to lock in the order
*Image 8 - taking order*
2. Paste in a LN invoice for the amount of LN sats to be received. (see Addendum #2)
3. Pay using fiat method preselected
4. Bitcoin is paid out of escrow and into the LN invoice that you gave.
## Addendum
1. Use this for more help - <https://learn.robosats.com/>
2. If you don't wish to receive in lighting, then in Step 5, instead of your own LN invoice, use one from https://boltz.exchange/swap. You can do this natively in RoboSats, but they charge an arm and a leg.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/877796
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@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-06 16:14:00
I would have done about an hour better today, but my hatred of food waste got the best of me. My daughter wanted the crusts cut off of her toast and, since no one else was going to eat them, I gobbled them up.
That was the last thing I ate, yesterday, though, and I didn't eat or drink anything for the next 16 hours. Still pretty good.
## Score Card
Day 1: 14 hour fast (13 dry)
Day 2: 15 hour fast (14 dry)
Day 3: 17 hours (16 dry)
Day 4: 18 hours (17 dry)
Day 5: 18 hours (16 dry)
Day 6: TBD (16 dry)
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/877787
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@ f6b1e489:f1c91bc4
2025-02-06 15:59:52
# Psychedelics and Bitcoin
Almost everyone who gets into bitcoin at some point realizes how it destroys your mental models of the world. You start questioning the _status quo_ and experience a serious rewiring of the brain. This can be confusing and frightening at first. But in hindsight it is mostly viewed as positive and people end up being a different, better person. Less focussed on hedonistic consumption, more focussed on long term health and wealth.
# Rewiring the Brain
I realized that psychedelics (like LSD or Psilocybin) and learning Bitcoin had a similar effect on my brain. The closest to my head-over-heels experience down the Bitcoin rabbithole were my experiences with LSD long before I discovered Bitcoin. Both shaped my life in an unexpected but positive way. I can´t talk about psychedelic experiences with most of my family, similar as with Bitcoin. They just don´t get it. And at this point I won´t bother trying to explain it anymore.
# Volatility
Then there is the volatility aspect. Psychedelic trips can be quite volatile, you never know what to expect. There is always some level of loss of control and you have to be fine with it. Similar with Bitcoin: You have to be able to stand the ups and downs, one day feeling like a genius, being full of doubt the next day.
# Questioning Authority
There are also some historical and cultural parallels between the spread of LSD in the 60s and Bitcoin today. In the 1960s Timothy Leary coined the term "_Turn on, tune in, drop out_". Large parts of the youth counterculture discovered the freeing effect of LSD on the mind and said "Fuck it, we´re not gonna participate in your wars". They challenged authority and the societal norms. Today, bitcoiners find the freedom of Bitcoin. They like to opt out of the system and say "Fuck it, we´re not gonna participate in your bullshit any longer". Passionate, freedom-loving communities have formed around both phenomena.
What are your thoughts on this? Do you have similar experiences? Did I miss anything?
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/877770
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@ 89ccea93:df4e00b7
2025-02-06 11:20:49
I've opened a ~monero territory.
I kept wanting to post things about or tangential to monero and didn't know where to shove them.
Obviously ~bitcoin isn't the right place.
And ~cryptocurrency didn't feel right, since for me, as a bitcoiner, monero is in a unique position. It doesn't seem to fit under the larger basket of cryptocurrencies. Many of which are scams/self-enrichment schemes. Ahem, XRP.
Or just poorly implemented and pre-mined. Ahem, ETH.
I don't know a lot about monero actually, but I use it and like it and think it has a place in a bitcoiners arsenal in resisting government infringements and resisting pervasive privacy shit-holes like the chain anal companies. Even Coinbase has their own proprietary chain anal. It's disgusting. They don't want us to have privacy. And many people play right into their hands by handing over their ID card and picture of their face to get bitcoins when you can get it anonymously. But I digress.
Use the territory, or don't.
But if you do, then welcome.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/877547
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@ 89ccea93:df4e00b7
2025-02-06 08:55:27
<https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shill>
I question the intellectual honesty of someone using the word "shill" to describe a Monero user.
I used to hang out in DeFi circles and we had a robust understanding of the word shill. Basically it was someone financially motivated to get you do do a certain behavior.
`Use platform X, buy token Y etc and get some benefit.`
When in reality, they wanted you to pump the liquidity so they could dump on you.
I don't see the same thing being true for Monero users.
A Monero user is someone who wants one thing. Privacy. That's literally it.
A Monero user doesn't want to get rich. Using Monero usually means they're taking a financial hit as Bitcoin is a better SoV. There is literally no financial gain to the Monero user if someone else uses it.
It shouldn't really be debatable then that for the purpose above, privacy, Monero surpasses Bitcoin.
But! Lightning!!
To which I reply, so what? Lightning is okay, but it's not a panacea.
It's UX is clunky at best. And perfect privacy is not a default. Many Lightning users are trusting their privacy and IP to a third party when they use it custodially.
But a one-to-one comparision of Monero privacy to Lightning privacy is effectively impossible because of how many different ways there are to interact with and use Lightning. Monero privacy is extremely quantifiable. Lightning privacy is a bit more ethereal. And this post isn't the place to go into that. I just made a sister post in the ~privacy territory.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/877476
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@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-06 07:38:36
# How does bitcoin's lack of central brand authority influence its visual identity, and what implications does this have for designers?
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/877437
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@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-06 07:28:25
# Looking at bitcoin's layered architecture (base layer and Lightning Network), can you explain why this approach was necessary? What are the trade-offs between transacting on each layer?
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/877429