Ethereum (ETH) Locked By DeFi dApps Moves Past $1 B Mark

The amount of ETH locked by open finance, DeFi, dApps now exceeds the $1 billion mark according to streams from DeFi Pulse.
By Dalmas Ngetich
Updated August 30, 2024
Compound, Ethereum ETH

The amount of ETH locked by open finance, DeFi, dApps now exceeds the $1 billion mark according to streams from DeFi Pulse, a site that tracks the performance of financial dApps. A milestone for the emerging trustless finance sub-sector and most importantly Ethereum, from where most DeFi dapps are launched from.

Advertisement
Advertisement

DeFi and ETH Price: The Relationship

Lending rates in DeFi dapps remain high. Part of this is because ETH, which is the collateral required for borrowing loans, is an asset whose prices fluctuate.

When prices rise, instead of simply holding, investors can use the asset to earn above market rates. This could explain the swelling of the total amount of ETH locked in DeFi.

Interestingly, the spot price of ETH is positively correlated and syncs with the amount of coins locked by these apps.

It peaked in February 2020 when the price of ETH rose to over $280 (and amount locked in DeFi soaring to $1.2 billion) before dropping and halving to around $550 million in March 2020.

DeFi Pulse The DeFi Stats
DeFi Pulse The DeFi Stats

At this time, ETH prices were changing hands below the $120 mark triggering a wave of forced liquidations at MakerDAO.

Not only did borrowers lose their collateral but a resulting network congestion led to an $8 million loss because of a collateral auction hitch.

Advertisement
Advertisement

ETH 2.0 is Vital For Ethereum

Predictably, as ETH prices appreciate ahead of ETH 2.0 Beacon Chain mainnet, it is highly likely that the amount of ETH locked by DeFi dApps will continue to swell and even print new highs.

The success of the Beacon Chain mainnet, the foundation of ETH 2.0, is vital for the network and ETH prices since most apps prefer the network despite its scalability challenges.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Is Defi Disrupting Traditional Finance?

DeFi apps seek to disrupt the traditional finance system punctuated by centralized entities known for reaping big profits by charging exorbitant rates for borrowers.

As the tables turn and blockchain becomes mainstream, holders of digital assets like ETH or Tron, for instance, would lend their assets and even borrow funds for stablecoins pegged to the USD or any other reserve currency without the participation of the middleman.

The absence of the middleman gives DeFi dApps an edge and an advantage over traditional setups. Notably, that smart contracts drive processes and eliminate errors could be one factor that contribute to the expansion of the interesting financial application.

 

Advertisement
Dalmas Ngetich
Dalmas is a very active cryptocurrency content creator and highly regarded technical analyst. He’s passionate about blockchain technology and the futuristic potential of cryptocurrencies and enjoys the opportunity to help educate bitcoin enthusiasts through his writing insights and coin price chart analysis. Follow him at @dalmas_ngetich
Why trust CoinGape: CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journalists and analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.