[s1artibartfast]

Intrinsic vale is not a prerequisite for utility. USD has no intrinsic value. Yes, you can pay your taxes with it. That is a contingent value.

The only intrinsic value of crypto is that it can not be unilaterally inflated away, and can be difficult to digitally seize.

In this respect it is similar to gold. It lacks the physical uses of gold, but is easier to transport.

No, I don't think the US government should invest in it. It should make sure it's own currency retains value.

[RealStickman_]

USD is backed by the US economy and a significant portion of global trade.

BTC is backed by hopes, dreams and market speculation.

[desumeku]

Correction: The USD is backed by a ponzi scheme where people who put money in have to rely on the USA being able to get more out to pay debt. If it fails at this at any point (which has nearly happened dozens of times!) then the entire thing collapses and suddenly the "world reserve currency" isn't as much "currency" as it is pieces of paper and digital ledger entries. Ironic, isn't it?

[s1artibartfast]

What point are you making in relation to what I said? USD can still be devalued.

[RealStickman_]

My point is that the USD has some inherent value, while BTC has none.

[s1artibartfast]

I think BTC has some advantages in the attributes I described in my parent post.

Inherent or not depends on how far are you willing to stretch your assumptions.