DeFi, short for decentralized finance, is a dynamic concept within the world of crypto and blockchain. It represents a vision for conducting financial transactions without intermediaries or central authorities and fostering direct peer-to-peer interactions.
Often Described as a ‘disruptive force that challenges the traditional financial system.’
What is Decentralized Finance (DeFi) in NZ?
Decentralized finance (DeFi) is an emerging model in New Zealand and around the globe that revolutionizes cryptocurrency-based transactions, exchanges, and financial services.
Unlike traditional financial systems, DeFi operates without a centralized authority.
This decentralized approach sets it apart from centralized finance (CeFi) models within the cryptocurrency market. In CeFi, a central authority holds power over transactions and custody of assets such as Binance NZ or FTX. Read more about centralized platforms
How Does DeFi work?
In New Zealand, DeFi relies on the utilization of blockchain technology, often based on Ethereum, to facilitate its operations. (Note its not limited to only Ethereum.)
Unlike traditional financial systems where a central authority facilitates transactions, DeFi relies on programmatically enabled smart contracts. These contracts autonomously carry out the specified financial transactions without the need for intermediaries.
One feature of DeFi smart contracts is their transparency and availability as code, allowing for auditing and analysis by anyone interested in the DeFi platform.
DeFi operates on a peer-to-peer (P2P) model, eliminating the necessity for a central authority. As a result, if two parties agree to execute a transaction, they can do so.
DeFi vs CeFi
The realm of crypto-related financial services, two dominant models exist: DeFi and CeFI.
Both models enable traders to buy, sell and loan cryptocurrency assets and have a concept of an exchange such as Bybit or Uniwap that can help to facilitate transactions.
The distinction between CeFi and DeFi lies in their organizational and management structures, resulting in significant differences. In the CeFi model, transactions are governed by a central authority, which also assumes the role of asset custodian.
However, the DeFi approach operates on smart contracts and a peer-to-peer (P2P) decentralized system to facilitate financial services. In New Zealand, DeFi empowers individuals by allowing them to hold custody of their cryptocurrency assets, eliminating the need for centralized exchanges to assume that responsibility. This decentralized framework gives users greater control and ownership over their digital assets.
Benefits of DeFi
DeFi brings numerous Benefits to users in NZ, fostering confidence, security, and trust in cryptocurrency-based transactions and applications. Here are some key benefits:
Lower Costs: DeFi aims to reduce transaction costs by eliminating intermediaries and automating processes through smart contracts. This can result in lower fees for various financial services, including lending, borrowing, and trading.
Increased Control: With DeFi, users have greater control over their funds and assets. They hold custody of their own private encryption keys, reducing reliance on third-party intermediaries and mitigating the risk of funds being locked or frozen.
Transparency and Trust: DeFi transactions and operations are transparent, as they are recorded on a public blockchain. Users can verify transactions and smart contract code, promoting trust and reducing the need to rely solely on centralized authorities.
Innovation and Flexibility: DeFi fosters an environment of innovation, allowing developers to build and deploy decentralized applications (dApps) on open platforms.
- Privacy: Anonymity is another notable aspect of DeFi. Unlike centralized and regulated models that often require Know Your Client (KYC) procedures, DeFi does not impose specific identification requirements on users. An interesting argument against KYC.
Challenges of DeFi
Despite the numerous benefits offered by DeFi, it is important to acknowledge and address several potential challenges that may arise, including the following:
User Responsibility: DeFi puts the responsibility of asset custody and security in the hands of individual users. While this offers greater control, it also means that users need to take proactive measures to secure their private keys and protect against hacks or theft. The loss of private keys can result in irreversible loss of funds.
Market Volatility: Cryptocurrencies, which form the basis of DeFi, are known for their price volatility. Fluctuations in cryptocurrency prices can have a significant impact on the value of DeFi assets, potentially leading to financial losses. Users should be prepared for market volatility and make informed investment decisions.
- Complexity: The DeFi model operates on a p2p basis, utilizing smart contracts and advanced algorithms that might pose difficulty for those unfamiliar with the concept.
Uses of DeFi in New Zealand
Stablecoins
DeFi platforms support the creation and use of stablecoins, which are cryptocurrencies pegged to stable assets like fiat currencies. Stablecoins enable fast and low-cost cross-border transactions, providing a viable alternative for international payments.
DIA is a great example of a decentralized stablecoin, built on the Ethereum Blockchain.
Lending and Borrowing
DeFi protocols offer lending and borrowing services without the need for traditional financial institutions. Users can lend their cryptocurrencies and earn interest or borrow funds by collateralizing their assets. This opens up opportunities for individuals in New Zealand to access credit and generate returns on their idle assets.
Decentralized Exchange (DEX)
DeFi provides DEX platforms that enable peer-to-peer trading of cryptocurrencies without the need for intermediaries. Users can trade digital assets directly with each other, offering increased liquidity and reducing reliance on centralized exchanges such as Binance NZ.
View the top cryptocurrency decentralized exchanges on Coinmarketcap
Yield Farming and Liquidity Mining
DeFi introduces innovative concepts like yield farming and liquidity mining, where users can earn additional cryptocurrency rewards by providing liquidity to decentralized protocols. It incentivizes users to contribute to the liquidity and growth of DeFi platforms.
Decentralized Applications (DApps)
Decentralized Applications (dApps) are an integral part of the DeFi ecosystem, offering various functionalities and services that operate on blockchain networks. These applications leverage the decentralized nature of blockchain technology to provide users with enhanced transparency, security, and control over their data and transactions.
The Future of Decentralized Finance
The future of decentralized finance holds tremendous potential for transforming the financial landscape. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect significant advancements in security measures, ensuring that user funds are protected.
Moreover, efforts to enhance scalability and interoperability will enable DeFi platforms to handle larger transaction volumes while maintaining efficiency and reducing costs.
These developments pave the way for a future where kiwis have greater control over their finances, fostering financial empowerment and innovation in a way that benefits society.
FAQs about DeFi
Is Decentralized Finance Safe?
While DeFi offers exciting opportunities, it also comes with risks. Smart contract vulnerabilities, hacking attempts, and market volatility can pose risks to users. It’s crucial to conduct thorough research, understand the risks involved, and use reputable platforms and protocols.
What is Total Value Locked in DeFi?
TVL stands for Total Value Locked. In the context of DeFi, TVL refers to the total value of assets that are locked or staked in decentralized finance protocols. It is a measure of the amount of capital actively participating in Decentralized Finance applications.
Can you make money with DeFi?
Yes, DeFi provides opportunities to earn passive income through various mechanisms like yield farming, liquidity provision, staking, and lending. These activities involve providing liquidity or locking up assets in protocols, earning rewards or interest in return. However, it’s important to carefully evaluate the risks and potential returns before participating.
What are decentralized exchanges (DEXs)?
Decentralized exchanges are platforms within the DeFi ecosystem that allow users to trade cryptocurrencies directly with other users without the need for intermediaries. DEXs operate on blockchain networks and use smart contracts to facilitate secure and transparent P2P trading.
