> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://components.agoric.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://components.agoric.com/smart-contracts/defi.md). # DeFi **Decentralized Finance** (DeFi) refers to a financial system built on blockchain technology that allows for peer-to-peer transactions without intermediaries like banks or traditional financial institutions. In a DeFi system, financial transactions are executed through smart contracts and decentralized applications (dapps) that run on a blockchain network. DeFi has several key features, including transparency, immutability, security, and accessibility. Transactions are transparent and can be viewed by anyone on the blockchain network, making it difficult to manipulate or falsify data. Smart contracts are self-executing and automate the process of verifying and executing transactions, which reduces the need for intermediaries and ensures that transactions are executed as intended. Some of the most popular applications of DeFi include cryptocurrency exchanges, lending platforms, and stable tokens. Cryptocurrency exchanges allow users to trade one cryptocurrency for another without the need for a centralized authority, while lending platforms allow users to lend and borrow digital assets without the need for a traditional bank. Stable tokens are digital currencies that are pegged to a stable asset, such as the US dollar, and are used to minimize price volatility in the cryptocurrency market. Overall, DeFi is an emerging field that has the potential to revolutionize the traditional financial system by creating a more open, transparent, and accessible financial system for everyone. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://components.agoric.com/smart-contracts/defi.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.