Decentralized finance, or DeFi, aims to broaden the accessibility of financial services. It allows users globally to send funds, earn interest, or get loans without needing a traditional bank. Connecting to these services and apps only requires a few steps.

A crypto wallet and internet access are all one needs to explore DeFi.

How Does DeFi Work?

DeFi is a system of financial apps and protocols built on decentralized blockchain networks. It rests on the idea that financial tools and services should be open to everyone.

DeFi works using a few building blocks:

  • Blockchains: These digital networks are the base for DeFi apps. Like computer operating systems, they support different kinds of software. Ethereum is a common blockchain for DeFi.

  • Smart contracts: These programs on the blockchain perform tasks on their own and are hard to tamper with.

  • Decentralized apps (dapps): These apps are powered by smart contracts on blockchains. They are similar to normal apps, but lack a central controlling company.

  • Onchain wallets: These apps or devices allow people to manage crypto and interact with DeFi apps.

  • Cryptocurrencies: These digital assets, such as Bitcoin, Ether (ETH), and stablecoins like USDC, are designed for use in blockchain transactions.

These apps often look and feel like normal apps, since they can be used through a web browser or they can be downloaded from a smartphone app store.

DeFi apps also allow you to make and verify transactions directly on the blockchain, as opposed to needing a bank or payment service.

What Can You Do with DeFi?

DeFi opens up a range of possibilities. Here are a few examples of what you can do:

1. Swapping tokens

Decentralized exchanges (DEXs) such as Uniswap make it easy to trade digital assets directly. You can exchange one token for another without using a central exchange.

2. Providing liquidity (LPing)

Users can earn fees by adding assets to liquidity pools, which are used in DEX trades. By providing liquidity, users earn a share of trading fees.

3. Borrowing digital assets

On lending protocols like Aave, users can deposit assets as collateral to borrow other tokens. Unlike traditional borrowing, decentralized borrowing is straightforward, since it does not require credit checks.

4. Tokenizing real-world assets

Assets like real estate and artworks can be turned into digital tokens. This allows easy verification and transfer of ownership and allows for shared ownership.

5. Sending large sums of money

Sending significant amounts of money is often faster and cheaper over the blockchain. DeFi transactions bypass banks, payment services, and currency converters, cutting out delays and fees.

The Advantages of DeFi

DeFi aims to create an open, global economy accessible to everyone. It is available 24/7. Some advantages include:

  • Speed: Transactions like token swaps are executed quickly.

  • Low cost: Fewer third parties involved translates to lower costs.

  • Borderless: Wallets can work together across the globe.

  • Peer-to-peer: Wallets connect to apps directly.

  • Always open: DeFi is always available.

  • Secure: Blockchains enable secure transactions.

  • Accessible: There is no need for a bank account or credit score.

DeFi users today include regular people, traders, and even major banks. A good indication of DeFi’s reach is the total value locked across DEXs which, during strong markets, has gone past $100 billion.

Things to Consider

DeFi gives you more control than normal finance. Given this freedom, here are a few points to remember:

  • Self-custody is key: As the saying goes, your keys, your crypto means that you control your wallet. You must keep your recovery phrase or private key safe.

  • Network fees and speed: Gas fees, which are paid in each transaction, and block times depend on network conditions.

  • Scams and fake tokens: Always double-check tokens, contracts, and links before making a transaction. Use apps that flag risky tokens.

  • Smart contract risk: Bugs or third-party problems can impact protocols, tokens, or apps. Use apps or protocols reviewed by security experts.

  • Regulations: Rules and access depend on the region and may change.

Keeping these points in mind can help you use DeFi responsibly.

Getting Started with DeFi

Your crypto wallet connects you to DeFi. Many wallets are beginner-friendly, secure your assets, and work with popular DeFi apps.

To see DeFi protocols and prices, check out tokens such as Uniswap, Aave, SushiSwap, and 1inch. You can also check out cryptocurrencies to find DeFi tokens and track the top cryptocurrencies by market value.

Disclaimer: Links to other websites are for informational purposes. CryptoNewsNavigator is not in charge of the content on those sites. This article is for info only and is not financial advice. Research before making any choices.