Barry Silbert, co-founder and CEO of Digital Currency Group (DCG), continues to reinforce the investment thesis that financial privacy is not only a “fundamental right” but also the next major asymmetric opportunity in the crypto industry.
Speaking at the Bitcoin Investor Week conference in New York on Wednesday, Silbert—an experienced Bitcoin investor—stated:
“I am extremely optimistic about Bitcoin as a core component of a diversified portfolio. However, I am looking for projects with strong transformative potential, with growth prospects of 100, 500, even 1,000 times.”
He candidly acknowledged that, unless the US dollar completely collapses, Bitcoin is unlikely to increase 500 times from its current level. Conversely, he believes projects focused on privacy and new infrastructure, such as Zcash (ZEC) or Bittensor (TAO), could achieve such explosive growth. “Therefore, we allocate our portfolio in that direction,” Silbert said, referencing blockchain security applications using zk-proof technology and networks focused on AI.
This statement is particularly notable given that Grayscale—DCG’s subsidiary—launched the first organized Bitcoin investment fund in 2013 (Grayscale Bitcoin Trust), which has now transitioned into one of the most liquid Bitcoin spot ETFs on the market.
While maintaining a positive outlook on Bitcoin, Silbert admits that the “anonymous cash” narrative of Bitcoin is no longer relevant in the context of blockchain analysis firms like Chainalysis or Elliptic becoming increasingly sophisticated. He also questions whether this original blockchain will truly integrate robust security features, despite users’ clear demand for “using digital money while maintaining privacy.”
Privacy as the New Focus
From this perspective, Silbert believes that some of the capital currently flowing into Bitcoin may shift toward privacy-focused crypto assets.
“Our bet is that in the next few years, about 5%–10% of Bitcoin’s value will shift into privacy-centric cryptos,” he said.
Currently, Grayscale operates the Grayscale Zcash Trust—a publicly traded fund launched in 2017 and currently under review for conversion into an ETF. Previously, the company also offered investment products for the ZEN token of the Horizon network, which now functions as a Layer 3 base.
Regarding the threat of quantum computing— the hypothesis that quantum computers could break elliptic curve cryptography and threaten old Bitcoin addresses—Silbert believes this is not an immediate danger for Bitcoin. However, he emphasized: “Zcash is an excellent hedge.”
Although DCG has supported Zcash for many years, Silbert says he is increasingly comfortable discussing financial privacy, especially given Paul Atkins’ role as Chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
“Right now, privacy is my top priority,” he concluded.
Disclaimer: The information on this page may come from third parties and does not represent the views or opinions of Gate. The content displayed on this page is for reference only and does not constitute any financial, investment, or legal advice. Gate does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information and shall not be liable for any losses arising from the use of this information. Virtual asset investments carry high risks and are subject to significant price volatility. You may lose all of your invested principal. Please fully understand the relevant risks and make prudent decisions based on your own financial situation and risk tolerance. For details, please refer to
Disclaimer.
Related Articles
Bitcoin Breaks Key Resistance, $78,000 Target in Sight, but Pullback Risk Remains
Bitcoin's price recently surpassed $73,700, increasing by nearly 11%, influenced by a cup and handle formation. The upward movement faces resistance at $74,300, and there is a short-term risk of a pullback. Decreased spot supply supports the price, while leverage in the derivatives market has declined, indicating cautious market sentiment. Investors should monitor key price levels and short-term fluctuations.
GateNews3m ago
Two pyramid adjustment traders reached consensus on BTC take-profit range, with short-term high targeting 78,000 USD
On March 16th, two Hyperliquid traders, Paul Wei and 100% Win Rate Low Drawdown, reached consensus on the profit-taking zone for BTC long positions, with the target set at $78,000. The former set take-profit orders in the $75,000 to $81,000 range, while the latter has pending orders in place. The two traders adopted different position-adding strategies and leverage choices, profiting amid volatility through pyramid position management.
GateNews24m ago
SHIB Flashes Bullish Signals as Chart Mirrors 455% Breakout Pattern
SHIB shows a falling wedge pattern signaling a potential bullish breakout soon.
Previous wedge setup triggered a 455 percent rally, suggesting history could repeat.
Breakout requires strong volume and resistance clearance to confirm the move.
Shiba Inu caught traders’ attention again
CryptoNewsLand29m ago
Bitcoin ETF Capital Inflows Drive Strong Rebound, Analysts Target $80,000
Bitcoin has rebounded approximately 2.5% in recent days, reaching a high of $74,000, primarily driven by consecutive five-day net inflows into U.S. spot ETFs totaling $767.3 million. Analysis indicates this rebound stems from spot ETF capital inflows, short covering, and active institutional buying. While the rebound has been strong, analysts remain cautious about a sustained bull market long-term, with the key factors being the sustainability of capital inflows and easing geopolitical tensions.
MarketWhisper1h ago
WIF Bulls Eye $0.21 After Strong Reaction at Major Support
WIF trades near $0.17 as buyers defend critical support around $0.16.
Oversold indicators hint at potential rebound toward $0.21 resistance.
Breakdown below $0.16 could push price toward $0.15 support.
Dogwifhat — WIF, has faced pressure in recent trading sessions, yet market attention r
CryptoNewsLand1h ago
On-chain activity is exploding, but Ethereum can't seem to gain momentum? Experts reveal the "fatal weakness": could drop to $1,500
CryptoQuant's latest report indicates that Ethereum is facing an "adoption paradox," where network activity reaches new highs, but the token price continues to decline. Analysts predict that if the bear market persists, Ether could fall to $1,500. Despite thriving on-chain activity, it has decoupled from the token price, and the high proportion of Ether flowing into exchanges suggests heavy selling pressure and weak investment demand.
区块客2h ago
