Decentralized finance and cryptocurrencies are tightly linked, yet they each play distinct roles within the blockchain world. Curious about the difference? Let’s break it down.
What is cryptocurrency? And what is DeFi? Crypto vs DeFi.
Table of Contents
Cryptocurrency explained
Cryptocurrency is a virtual currency, serving as an alternative to fiat money. Essentially, it’s code generated through complex computer-based mathematical calculations. Cryptocurrencies operate on blockchain technology — a database structured as a chain of blocks, each containing transaction information. Cryptocurrencies don’t have a central authority managing or regulating their value. Instead, everything runs through a decentralized network of users online.
Decentralized finance explained
DeFi represents a completely new financial system, akin to traditional banking but built on public blockchains. With DeFi, you can do a lot of what you’d normally do with a traditional bank, like earning interest on your deposits, taking out loans, borrowing money, getting insurance, and trading cryptocurrency derivatives.
Decentralized finance vs crypto: core differences between DeFi and cryptocurrency
What is the difference between DeFi and crypto?
Purpose and use cases
Crypto. Today, people use cryptocurrencies in many ways. You can spend them on services and products if the seller is open to it, and they’re also relatively easy to exchange for dollars, euros, and other currencies. However, many people view digital coins more as investment assets, similar to stocks or precious metals, rather than just a purchase method.
DeFi. DeFi opens up a world of innovative financial services, making it easier for people to manage their money in new ways. For example, trading cryptocurrencies on DeFi platforms often means lower fees than traditional methods. With DeFi, you can do much more than just trade crypto; you can also lend money, either earning interest on what you lend or borrowing funds when you need them. Plus, you can save your money in interest-bearing accounts, helping it grow over time.
Ecosystem and components
What are the main components of DeFi and crypto?
Crypto
Here are the key components of cryptocurrencies:
-
Blockchain technology. Think of blockchain as a digital ledger that tracks all cryptocurrency transactions. It’s a secure and open way to see who owns what and ensure everything’s above board.
-
Cryptographic security. This is the tech that keeps your transactions safe and your data private. It also means you don’t need to rely on a middleman to manage your money.
-
Decentralized ledger. Picture a public record that’s spread across many computers. It keeps tabs on digital assets like cryptocurrencies and NFTs, making sure they’re tracked securely and transparently. This system is also handy for things like supply chain tracking, managing medical records, and even voting.
DeFi
Here’s a simple rundown of the main components of DeFi:
-
Blockchain. Most DeFi action happens on the Ethereum blockchain, which is where this whole movement started.
-
Crypto assets and tokens. Think of BTC and ETH as the core players in the DeFi game. They’re essential to how the system operates.
-
Digital wallets. These are like your online bank accounts for cryptocurrencies. They keep your digital assets safe and secure, typically protected by private keys.
-
Smart contracts. Imagine these as self-executing agreements that automatically do what they’re programmed to do when certain conditions are met. They’re the backbone of many DeFi services.
-
Stablecoins. These are digital coins designed to hold steady value, usually pegged to traditional currencies or commodities. They help keep things stable amidst all the crypto volatility.
Link: https://crypto.news/defi-vs-crypto-what-sets-them-apart/?utm_source=pocket_shared
Source: https://crypto.news
