It’s a new world out there. Here is some common terminology to help you understand the DeFi space:
DeFi
Decentralised Finance. An umbrella term used to describe financial apps in the digital asset and blockchain space aimed at disrupting traditional finance.
Digital asset
Any asset that is stored digitally. All cryptocurrencies are considered digital assets.
Blockchain
A system where transactions of a digital asset are recorded across a network of computers that maintain accuracy of the data.
Smart contract
Programs that run on the blockchain using customisable rules and conditions to define operations.
Stablecoin
A type of digital asset which aims to track fiat.
Fiat
Government issued currency such as AUD or USD.
DApps
Decentralised applications run on top of a blockchain using smart contracts to define operations.
Decentralised exchange (DEX)
A type of digital asset exchange that enables secure peer-to-peer (P2P) transactions without the need for an intermediary.
Automated market maker (AMM)
The underlying protocol that allows users to trade digital assets on decentralised exchanges.
Protocol
A generic term with origins outside of DeFi. Essentially a basic set of rules defining how data should be shared between computers.
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