Definition ∞ Borrow demand indicates the willingness and need for users to acquire digital assets through lending protocols. This metric reflects the collective desire for leverage or access to specific cryptocurrencies without outright purchase. It is typically influenced by market sentiment, yield opportunities, and speculative trading strategies. High borrow demand often suggests active market participation and potential for price volatility.
Context ∞ Borrow demand is a key indicator analyzed in decentralized finance (DeFi) news and market reports. Changes in borrow demand can signal shifts in investor behavior or liquidity requirements across various lending platforms. Financial news outlets frequently monitor these trends to assess the health and activity within the broader digital asset lending ecosystem.