3285: Chia Network, Permuto and the Unbundling of Microsoft’s Equity With Blockchain

On this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Gene Hoffman, CEO of Chia Network, to explore a bold new vision for digital assets, investing, and regulatory-compliant blockchain innovation. 

While much of the blockchain space has struggled with regulatory clarity, Chia has taken a different path, working closely with the SEC and other regulators to ensure long-term viability for the network and its applications. With a groundbreaking joint venture called Permuto, Chia is pushing that vision even further.

Permuto is set to tokenize equity investments directly on Chia’s independent layer-1 blockchain. The first application? Microsoft stock. 

However, rather than simply offering a digital replica of a share, the platform will divide each into separate dividend and growth certificates. This new level of granularity can reshape the way institutions and individuals think about risk, returns, and liquidity. It’s particularly relevant for low-risk investors and retirees looking to isolate stable dividend income without exposure to market volatility tied to growth stocks.

Gene explains how this innovation could signal the next evolution of ETFs, offering flexible investment structures powered by blockchain. He also shares why Chia’s commitment to open-source technology and green consensus mechanisms has allowed it to attract serious institutional interest without compromising principles.

We also discuss Gene’s participation in the SEC’s upcoming Crypto Task Force Roundtable, where industry leaders will explore the convergence of traditional and decentralized finance. With deep ties to the crypto community and regulatory institutions, Gene offers a rare perspective on how to scale new financial tools in today’s regulatory environment responsibly.

Can blockchain finally deliver on its promise of transforming capital markets in a transparent, compliant, and useful way to everyday investors? Let’s find out.