Thesis: iEthereum – Currency or Not?

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One of the exciting aspects of discussing a topic that remains largely unexplored in the vast world of the Ether is the freedom it grants us to openly discuss, speculate, and theorize without the constraints of established narratives. For us, the focus of this exploration is iEthereum.

The entire crypto space is grappling with a need for regulatory clarity and legal definition. I’ve always held the view that in the United States, if there are no explicit laws governing an action, then it can be considered legal. I refer to actual laws—not bureaucratic policies implemented by government institutions. For instance, policies from the IRS or SEC do not equate to law. Many constitutional scholars argue that these institutions lack legal standing or jurisdiction over us. As government becomes increasingly corrupted and tyrannical, I find myself aligning more with these perspectives. Yet, it is important to acknowledge the heavy hand that enforces these policies, relishing its power.

iEthereum, like many cryptocurrencies, exists within a gray area of regulatory precedent and policy parameters. For years, individuals and institutional entities have called for greater clarity and guidance—whether motivated by innovative aspirations or fear of potential legal repercussions. Both motivations are natural and understandable.

Is iEthereum a cryptocurrency?
Is iEthereum a commodity?
Is iEthereum a utility token?
Is iEthereum a security?
Is iEthereum money?

Being early adopters of iEthereum allows us to engage in meaningful discussions, debates, and theorizing around these questions. If our voices gain enough traction and influence, we might even help shape the arguments surrounding these classifications. To be clear, we have no vested interest in this debate. Our current stance is that iEthereum is a digital asset—a form of money that does not qualify as a security under the established Howey Test.

There is a common misconception that money is synonymous with currency. This is not entirely accurate. Money is a broader term encompassing various forms, not limited to currency. Currency is simply one form of money; money can be defined as any item or medium of exchange that embodies perceived value.

Based on this definition, iEthereum can be categorized as “any item” or “medium of exchange,” similar to stocks, bonds, commodities, utility (such as skills or functions that can be bartered), banknotes, contracts, deeds, and more.

So, what exactly is iEthereum? The complexity of this question can be confusing.

We have published or scheduled numerous articles exploring the parameters that define what iEthereum is or is not. We have concluded that as a form of money, iEthereum will ultimately be classified as either a digital commodity, utility token, or currency. Our opinion leans towards viewing iEthereum as a digital commodity. However, we acknowledge that it may be regulated under any of these classifications.

Today, we will delve into the question of whether iEthereum can be considered a currency.

Thesis: iEthereum – Currency or Not?