Perpetually KYC'd Coins Using Evil Covenants

The discussion revolves around the efficiency and user experience implications of using a Merkle root in transaction processes, specifically within the context of blockchain technology. The primary point raised is the dynamic nature of the Merkle root, which undergoes modification with every addition to the list, such as when a new payment address is created. This frequent change necessitates repeated signings of the Merkle root, which could be seen as more cumbersome than signing individual payments directly.

Furthermore, the conversation touches upon the covenant model, which proposes a system where only a single signature is needed every two weeks. This approach aims to streamline the process but introduces a significant delay for new addresses that are not yet on the list, potentially waiting up to two weeks before being processed. Such a delay raises concerns regarding the user experience, suggesting that this model might not be optimal from a practical usability perspective.