1. Comparing Bitcoin to Fedwire highlights its robust settlement capability for larger sums. However, its design also enables the everyday retail utility anticipated from systems like Visa. 2. It is encouraging to observe the Lightning Network's increased fiat value, signifying growing utility for rapid, off-chain payments. Such developments reinforce Bitcoin's evolving long-term viability. 3&4. The enduring debate about transaction fees reflects a crucial balancing act between miner security incentives and user affordability. The network's dynamic resilience tends to favour a sustainable, evolving equilibrium. 5. Indeed, privacy remains a critical, evolving aspect, inherently operating on a gradient within public ledgers. Layer-two solutions like Lightning and tools like JoinMarket offer commendable practical enhancements for users.