This is exactly it. Just like with the Internet... you may choose to transact directly, but if you choose not to the fundamental capability of direct transactio

This is exactly it. Just like with the Internet... you may choose to transact directly, but if you choose not to the fundamental capability of direct transaction (or direct IP) still remains. Choosing an institution to hold your coins leaves open the option to withdraw your coins and put them somewhere else, perhaps even your own personal wallet on your own personal node if you so wish. The dream of a micro-payment platform remains to be realized, however. The gains in Bitcoin have been towards freedom, but not efficiency.