I keep hearing about "DeFi" everywhere in crypto circles. Is it really just a buzzword, or is there something substantial there? How is it different from regular banking?
Great question! DeFi stands for "Decentralized Finance," and it's one of the most practical uses of blockchain technology. Instead of relying on banks or brokers, DeFi uses smart contracts on blockchains like Ethereum to offer financial services — things like lending, borrowing, and earning interest — directly between users. What really helped me understand the scope was this clear breakdown: paybis.com/blog/glossary/what-is-defi/ . It explains how you can interact with protocols without middlemen, the role of stablecoins, and even touches on the risks (like smart contract vulnerabilities). It’s not just a buzzword — it’s a growing ecosystem, though it’s still early and can be risky for newcomers.