What is decentralised finance really good for?

Few subjects fascinate as much as decentralised finance (DeFi). Since the first projects appeared in 2017, the debate has been ongoing.

For its supporters, it's a playground for innovation and the creation of a more inclusive financial system. 🙌

For its detractors, it's more a symptom of an ultra-financial, speculation-driven ecosystem. 🤑

What is the reality? As is the case almost every time, things are a little more nuanced.

To grasp what DeFi brings, we first need to understand what we're talking about.

DeFi is an alternative financial infrastructure based on the characteristics of blockchain protocols, i.e. decentralisation and transparency.

In its "purest" form, it allows financial services to be operated without going through a central authority, usually a bank. With DeFi, you can get a loan or invest your savings without going through Deutsche Bank or BNP Paribas. 🏦