Centralization Risk

Definition ∞ Centralization Risk refers to the potential for a digital asset system or network to become overly dependent on a limited number of entities. This concentration of control can compromise the system’s security, censorship resistance, and overall resilience. A reduced number of decision-makers or validators increases vulnerability to malicious attacks or regulatory pressures. Mitigating this risk is a core tenet of decentralized systems.
Context ∞ Centralization Risk is a recurring theme in cryptocurrency news, particularly concerning blockchain networks and decentralized finance protocols that exhibit tendencies towards concentrated power. Debates often address the degree of decentralization in various projects, with implications for their long-term viability and resistance to external influence. Regulators also scrutinize centralization levels when assessing the stability and fairness of digital asset markets. Vigilance against this risk remains a priority for the digital asset community.