Michael Novogratz

Crypto: A New Asset Class?

Allison Nathan, Michael Novogratz, Nouriel Roubini, Mathew McDermott, Mike Novogratz

Galaxy Digital CEO Mike Novogratz and Goldman Sachs representatives argue that cryptocurrency is transitioning into a recognized asset class driven by institutional infrastructure and a sophisticated investor base, with Bitcoin serving primarily as a digital store of value while stablecoins and Ethereum facilitate payments and DeFi. Conversely, NYU Professor Nouriel Roubini rejects the classification of crypto as currency or a reliable inflation hedge, citing its high volatility, lack of fundamental value drivers, and failure to solve trust issues compared to traditional finance. Despite this regulatory and philosophical divergence, market participants acknowledge a symbiotic relationship is forming where traditional banks are integrating digital assets to meet client demand for diversification and portfolio efficiency.