The hottest DeFi Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Crypto Topics

The DeFi Roundup (October 29, 2022)

DeFi Education • 379 implied HN points • 30 Oct 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Elon Musk has completed his purchase of Twitter, which is creating a lot of buzz.
  2. There's a big focus on 'meme coins' or 'Shitcoins', which are fun but risky investments.
  3. Staying updated on the latest in decentralized finance (DeFi) is important for navigating these trends.

Oracle Manipulation: What You Need to Know

DeFi Education • 599 implied HN points • 10 Apr 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Oracles are important because they bring outside data into blockchains, helping many DeFi services work properly. Without them, these services would struggle to function.
  2. Due to their importance, oracles can be targeted by hackers and exploiters who want to manipulate the prices or information they provide. This creates risks for all users relying on that data.
  3. Understanding how oracle manipulation works is crucial for anyone involved in DeFi. It helps you protect your investments and make informed decisions.

Alfa Leak: What is Alpha?

DeFi Education • 679 implied HN points • 27 Jan 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Alpha is about making more money than a standard benchmark like the S&P 500. If you earn more than this benchmark, you have positive alpha.
  2. Beta measures how much an investment's price changes compared to a benchmark. A beta of 1 means it moves the same way as the benchmark, while higher or lower numbers show more volatility.
  3. In the crypto world, it's important to compare your gains against Bitcoin and understand how cryptocurrencies are becoming more similar to stocks over time. This can affect how much risk you take.

DeFi Builders and Speculators: A Symbiotic Relationship

DeFi Education • 759 implied HN points • 25 Nov 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Builders and speculators in DeFi work together and rely on each other. Builders create the tools and platforms while speculators provide the necessary activity and liquidity.
  2. Speculators play a big role in DeFi by driving trading and usage, making them crucial for the ecosystem's growth. Their activities generate revenue that helps fund further development.
  3. The future of DeFi is bright, as it serves as the foundation for financial systems. Speculation will likely continue to be a part of it, but utility and real-world assets will also play a bigger role.

Liquidity/Value Problems & Basic Chain Movements

DeFi Education • 819 implied HN points • 09 Oct 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. People are spending more time online than ever before, making digital platforms more valuable for reaching audiences. This shift means attention and money are really moving towards the internet.
  2. Decentralized finance (DeFi) is solving big problems with liquidity by allowing quick and easy loans without traditional banks. It helps people access funds faster and without the hassle of intermediary fees.
  3. Many new crypto projects are popping up, and while some will fail, being an early investor can offer high returns. Staying informed and acting quickly can help maximize benefits in this rapidly changing market.
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Rollups vs. Appchains / Subnets

DeFi Education • 499 implied HN points • 25 Jun 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Rollups help scale blockchains by bundling transactions together, making them faster and cheaper to process. They work by doing most of the computation off-chain and then posting the results on-chain.
  2. Appchains, or subnets, are independent chains that can run their own rules while still being connected to a main blockchain. This allows for more customization and flexibility in how they operate.
  3. Both rollups and appchains face different regulatory risks, which can affect how they grow and are accepted in the market. It's important for developers to consider these risks when choosing which to use.

88mph: Fixed Interest Rate Protocol

DeFi Education • 659 implied HN points • 06 Feb 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. 88mph helps users get fixed interest rates instead of variable ones. This can make managing money easier and less risky.
  2. The platform connects users with popular DeFi protocols like Compound and Aave. That means users can benefit from both fixed rates and other yield options.
  3. The 88mph team is considered strong and reliable. This adds trust to the platform for users looking to invest.

DeFi Kingdoms - Intro to Gaming

DeFi Education • 739 implied HN points • 03 Dec 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. DeFi Kingdoms combines gaming and decentralized finance, creating a fun way to engage with crypto. This mix, called 'GameFi', is becoming more popular.
  2. The game features elements like a marketplace, yield farming, and quests, much like a classic RPG. Players can earn while they play.
  3. This new trend in DeFi shows that gaming can be a creative way to explore and use financial tools in a digital world.

Curve Overview - (Part 1 of 2)

DeFi Education • 899 implied HN points • 04 Aug 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Curve is a decentralized exchange focused on stablecoins. This means users can trade without middlemen, making it easier to swap currencies.
  2. The project is closely connected with Yearn Finance, which was discussed in previous posts. Understanding both can help with grasping DeFi concepts.
  3. This article is part of a series, suggesting that there will be more detailed information on Curve in upcoming parts. It's good to follow along for a complete picture.

Protocol Updates (part 2 of 2)

DeFi Education • 579 implied HN points • 29 Mar 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Frax and Terra are successful protocols that maintain their stable value using a special model called seigniorage share.
  2. The Frax Price Index is an important product update that helps track the value of Frax.
  3. There are resources available to help learn more about Frax and stablecoins.

Tokemak (Part 2/2)

DeFi Education • 739 implied HN points • 23 Oct 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Tokemak offers a service called Liquidity as a Service, making it easier for liquidity providers to rent liquidity on demand. This means that people can access funds without having to hold them long-term.
  2. The post hints that there will be more updates about NFTX, suggesting that new and exciting topics related to decentralized finance are coming soon. Keeping an eye on updates will be beneficial.
  3. Tokemak is part of a bigger conversation about DeFi trends and services, including others like Olympus Pro. These platforms work together to enhance financial services in a decentralized manner.

Where Whales Went to Work in H2 2023

David’s Substack • 58 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Free markets can lead to global optimizations but leave local economies vulnerable to shifts in market winds
  2. Maker's sDAI offered attractive yields by backing DAI with off-chain assets and partnering with treasury bills
  3. New projects like Blast and Mantle quickly gained TVL through innovative strategies and partnerships in the crypto market

Maker DAO (Part 1) - Rolling the DAI

DeFi Education • 779 implied HN points • 14 Sep 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. MakerDAO lets you create DAI, a stablecoin, by using your crypto assets as collateral without selling them. It provides a way to access funds while keeping your investments.
  2. To borrow money through MakerDAO, you need to put up more value in crypto than you want to borrow, which helps protect lenders.
  3. If the value of your collateral drops too much, MakerDAO will liquidate it to ensure loans are paid back, so it's important to keep an eye on your collateral's value.

Vampires, Early Days of DeFi and More

DeFi Education • 819 implied HN points • 31 Jul 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. A vampire attack is when one DeFi project offers better returns to lure users away from another. This competition can lead to better options and higher yields for consumers.
  2. While vampire attacks can lead to great returns, they also come with risks like losing all your funds if the project fails or if developers act maliciously.
  3. The early days of DeFi show that as more projects enter the space, users have more choices, but they need to be careful because high returns can often signal potential scams.

DeFi: Tokenization is cool again, from Franklin Templeton, to Fasanara's Untangled Finance, & SC Ventures Libeara

The Fintech Blueprint • 58 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
💰 Finance DeFi
  1. The tokenized funds market issuance on public blockchains grew from $100 million to over $800 million in 2023.
  2. DeFi tokenization is gaining popularity among financial institutions like Franklin Templeton and Fasanara's Untangled Finance.
  3. There are exclusive insights and analyses available for paid subscribers in the DeFi tokenization space.

Decentralizing the Insurance Industry

DeFi Education • 739 implied HN points • 23 Sep 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Smart contracts can make insurance claims faster and cheaper by cutting out unnecessary overhead costs.
  2. The insurance industry has huge operational costs estimated around $900 billion, and smart contracts could reduce these significantly.
  3. Decentralizing insurance through technology is still new, which means there's a big opportunity for growth and change in the market.

FRAX: The Fractional Algorithmic Stablecoin (Pt. 2)

DeFi Education • 639 implied HN points • 14 Dec 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Frax is a unique type of stablecoin that combines both fractional and algorithmic features. This means it aims to maintain a stable value while also using smart contracts to help adjust its supply.
  2. In just six months, Frax's financial mechanisms, known as AMOs, made over $50 million in profits. That's a big boost in a short time, showing its potential for growth.
  3. There are benefits to using Frax, but there are also risks involved. It's important for users to understand both sides before getting involved.

Deep Dive: Sudoswap (XMON)

DeFi Education • 359 implied HN points • 17 Sep 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Sudoswap is a platform that uses Automated Market Maker (AMM) technology for trading NFTs. This makes it easier for people to buy and sell digital art and collectibles.
  2. The name 'Sudoswap' is inspired by a Unix command that allows users to run commands with elevated permissions. This reflects the platform's goal of allowing greater access and control for users when trading NFTs.
  3. The platform recently launched fully, indicating it’s now ready for more users to engage with NFTs in a decentralized and user-friendly way. This could change how people interact with NFT markets.

Deciding the Next Research Items

DeFi Education • 779 implied HN points • 12 Aug 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. The next research topic will be about Sushi, and it's happening soon. It's a way to keep readers informed and engaged.
  2. Free subscribers can now suggest research projects, making everyone's voice heard. This helps the community feel involved in the content.
  3. Requests from paid subscribers get priority, but everyone's input is valued. It creates a balance between supporting paid content and considering free members' interests.

How to Read Smart Contracts Part 2

DeFi Education • 519 implied HN points • 27 Mar 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Understanding smart contracts can be technical and may require some coding knowledge. It's important to build a foundation before diving into complex topics.
  2. Part 1 of the series offers a good introduction for beginners, while Part 2 is more suited for those with prior experience.
  3. Reading smart contracts is essential in the DeFi space, as it allows users to make informed decisions about their investments.

Nexus Mutual the Crypto Insurance Project (Part 1)

DeFi Education • 719 implied HN points • 26 Sep 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Nexus Mutual is a project focused on providing insurance in the cryptocurrency space. It aims to lower the high costs typically associated with traditional insurance agencies.
  2. As more big investors get involved in cryptocurrencies, insurance could become very important for scaling those investments.
  3. The article promises to explore how Nexus Mutual works and its impact on the insurance industry, especially in the context of decentralized finance (DeFi).

1Inch - Focus on Activity/User Growth (Part 1)

DeFi Education • 739 implied HN points • 03 Sep 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. 1inch is a platform that helps users find the best trade prices across different exchanges. It makes trading easier and more efficient for people.
  2. The focus of 1inch is on growing its user base and increasing activity on the platform. More users means more trades and better liquidity.
  3. The platform is similar to traditional brokerages that help customers get the best deal when trading. It's all about providing good service for traders.

Putting The "Ce" In "DeFi" (Part 2) - Bancor Explained (Important Read)

DeFi Education • 419 implied HN points • 29 Jun 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Bancor is a decentralized exchange (DEX) on Ethereum that offers protection against impermanent loss for liquidity providers. This means it helps users avoid losses when the value of their assets changes while being locked in the exchange.
  2. Impermanent loss happens when the value of liquidity provider tokens is different from holding the assets directly. Bancor aims to minimize this difference for its users.
  3. Bancor uses its own token, BNT, to cover any losses that liquidity providers might experience. However, this protection is currently paused due to challenging market conditions.

Alchemix Overview - Part 1 of 2

DeFi Education • 679 implied HN points • 06 Oct 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. You can deposit DAI to create alUSD, which is a type of stablecoin. This helps you use your assets in a more flexible way.
  2. The yield from your collateral goes to pay off your advance automatically, making the process easier for you. You don't have to worry about repayment.
  3. Alchemix is a smaller market cap project compared to others, but it has interesting features that may appeal to users looking for innovative DeFi solutions.

Maker Financials + Aave GHO

DeFi Education • 379 implied HN points • 14 Jul 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. MakerDAO is known for creating DAI, a popular stablecoin in the DeFi space. It's a big player in decentralized finance and is being closely watched by investors.
  2. Aave has introduced a new stablecoin called GHO. This is part of the ongoing trend of stablecoin development in the decentralized finance market.
  3. The discussion around Maker and Aave highlights the evolving nature of DeFi, where new products and updates can quickly shift how users engage with these financial systems.

Old Beethoven Had A Farm

DeFi Education • 499 implied HN points • 27 Feb 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Beethoven X is a new platform in the DeFi world that is based on an existing project called Balancer v2. It's designed to help users easily trade cryptocurrencies.
  2. The name 'Beethoven' connects to both the famous composer and the concept of farming, playing on the words to create a fun twist.
  3. Users can enjoy features like automated trading and earning opportunities on this platform, making it a useful tool for DeFi enthusiasts.

NFTX Overview

DeFi Education • 619 implied HN points • 24 Oct 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. NFTX allows NFT owners to deposit their NFTs into a vault and get a token in return, which can be traded. This helps make NFTs more liquid and allows owners to get quick cash when needed.
  2. NFTX differs from similar platforms by offering a user-friendly experience and has no current fees in its first version. In the future, they may add ways to earn income through governance decisions.
  3. The protocol is still in its early stages and faces competition from other upcoming marketplaces. However, if NFTX can implement single-sided staking, it might see significant growth.

Protocol Updates (part 1)

DeFi Education • 459 implied HN points • 29 Mar 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Aave is a platform where you can borrow and lend money safely. It lets users earn interest on their funds.
  2. This post provides updates on various DeFi protocols like Alchemix, Dopex, and Yearn that have been researched before.
  3. It is part of a series that aims to keep subscribers informed about the latest changes in DeFi projects.

WNXM Case Study: Breakdown of an Asymmetric Trade

DeFi Education • 559 implied HN points • 22 Nov 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. In the DeFi market, emotion and attention drive prices, creating unique opportunities for investments. It's important to explore less popular projects that address real problems, like decentralized insurance.
  2. Nexus Mutual offers insurance coverage for smart contract risks through a unique structure that includes legal status for token holders. This makes it a safer investment compared to many other crypto-assets.
  3. A profitable trading strategy involves buying WNXM tokens when they're undervalued, wrapping them, and redeeming them for ETH when the capital pool is healthy. Quick actions can lead to low-risk, high-return investments.

Maker DAO (Part 2 of 2): Valuation, Risks and More

DeFi Education • 619 implied HN points • 18 Sep 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. MakerDAO has a unique way of valuing its assets and managing risks, which is important for users to understand. It's key to know how much your investments are worth and what could go wrong.
  2. Users need to be aware of issues like impermanent loss, which can affect their returns. It’s a risk that can happen when investing in DeFi projects.
  3. Having strategies to reduce rug pulls is essential in the DeFi space. This can help you feel safer when investing and potentially prevent losses.

Tokemak Overview - Part 1 of 2

DeFi Education • 579 implied HN points • 19 Oct 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. TOKE is the main token for the Tokemak protocol, and it helps manage and govern the system.
  2. Tokemak is designed to improve liquidity for decentralized organizations and finance protocols.
  3. Users earn rewards by providing liquidity, and the TOKE holders decide how that liquidity is used on exchanges.

Perpetual Protocol (Part 2)

DeFi Education • 539 implied HN points • 10 Nov 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Perpetual Protocol makes money from trading fees, earning 0.1% on every trade. In 2021, it generated $31 million in fees.
  2. Valuation methods like Price to Earnings help understand the protocol's financial health. It's a useful way to analyze how well the platform performs.
  3. The post also discusses other decentralized exchanges (DDEX) such as dYdX, GMX, and MCDEX as alternatives to Perpetual Protocol. This comparison can help users choose the best option for trading.

How DeFi Will Disrupt The Legal Profession

DeFi Education • 399 implied HN points • 04 Mar 22
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. DeFi, or decentralized finance, offers a way for people to handle banking and financial tasks without needing traditional institutions. You can manage your money all by yourself with just a few clicks.
  2. This could change the legal profession by making financial and legal processes more accessible to everyone. It means people might not need lawyers for certain tasks anymore.
  3. With DeFi, many services that typically require a middleman might be automated, saving time and money for users. This could lead to less demand for some legal services.

FRAX: The Fractional Algorithmic Stablecoin (Pt. 1)

DeFi Education • 459 implied HN points • 14 Dec 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. FRAX is a new type of stablecoin that uses a unique algorithm to maintain its value. It aims to be more flexible than traditional stablecoins.
  2. The concept of fractional algorithmic stablecoins like FRAX shows how cryptocurrency can innovate to stay stable in value.
  3. Understanding stablecoins like FRAX can help people make better decisions in the world of cryptocurrency and decentralized finance.

Nexus Mutual (Part 2) - Valuation

DeFi Education • 459 implied HN points • 01 Oct 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Nexus Mutual is getting attention as more big investors start to enter the market. They might want insurance, which could help Nexus grow.
  2. Many regular investors might not see the need for insurance, but larger funds handling over $200 million will likely feel it's essential.
  3. The demand for insurance in the DeFi space is expected to rise, especially with institutional money looking for security in their investments.

Happily Ever After? Exploring the Fei-Rari merger

DeFi Education • 379 implied HN points • 23 Dec 21
🔮 Crypto DeFi
  1. Rari Capital and Fei Protocol are merging, with TRIBE tokens from Fei being exchanged for RGT tokens from Rari at a specific ratio. This merger is important as it's the first of its kind in the DAO space.
  2. The merger aims to eliminate Rari's debt, which was a result of a prior hack, by having Fei use its funds to pay off the liabilities. This move helps Rari start fresh financially.
  3. There are concerns about the pricing method used for the merger, as many feel that RGT holders received a bad deal. This raises questions about how to value tokens fairly in future mergers.