DeFi Collateral

Definition ∞ DeFi collateral refers to digital assets locked within decentralized finance protocols as security for loans or other financial services. These assets act as a guarantee, ensuring that borrowers meet their obligations within the protocol. If a borrower fails to repay a loan, the collateral can be liquidated to cover the outstanding debt. The value and type of accepted collateral are determined by the specific rules of each DeFi application.
Context ∞ The discussion surrounding DeFi collateral frequently addresses volatility risks and the need for robust liquidation mechanisms to maintain protocol solvency. A key consideration involves the diversity and quality of assets accepted as collateral, alongside the implementation of dynamic risk parameters. Future developments will likely include the acceptance of a wider array of real-world assets as collateral and the development of more capital-efficient collateral models.