Top DeFi coins in 2025 | A list of popular DeFi tokens
We cover some of the most popular DeFi coins on the market in 2025 and explain their utility and tokenomics.
AAVE is a decentralized lending and borrowing platform built on the Ethereum blockchain.
The Aave protocol operates through a smart contract system, eliminating the need for intermediaries and enabling peer-to-peer transactions. Users that choose to deposit their cryptocurrency into lending pools can earn interest (as decided by the Aave algorithm) on their deposits. These assets can then be borrowed by other users who require liquidity.
One of the notable features of AAVE is its use of "flash loans." Flash loans allow users to borrow assets without collateral as long as the borrowed amount is returned within the same transaction. This feature enables users to take advantage of arbitrage opportunities or execute complex trading strategies in a single transaction.
Each transaction involves an interaction with the Ethereum blockchain, where a set of instructions is executed. These instructions can include borrowing funds, executing trades, and repaying a loan within the singular transaction.
The native token of Aave is also called AAVE, and it serves multiple purposes within the Aave ecosystem. AAVE is primarily used as a governance token, allowing AAVE holders to propose and vote on changes to the protocol. This gives token holders a say in the development and future direction of the Aave platform.
Additionally, AAVE token holders are entitled to a portion of fees collected by the protocol, which are generated from activities such as borrowing, lending, and liquidity pools. These fees are distributed to AAVE holders in proportion to their ownership percentage.
Further, AAVE tokens can be used as collateral for borrowing on the platform. By using AAVE as collateral, borrowers can access a higher borrowing limit or obtain more favorable terms.