Digital Asset Swap

Definition ∞ A digital asset swap involves the direct exchange of one digital asset for another. This transaction type allows users to trade different cryptocurrencies or tokens peer-to-peer, often utilizing smart contracts or specialized protocols to ensure trustless execution. It bypasses the need for traditional centralized exchanges, enhancing autonomy and reducing counterparty risk. Digital asset swaps are fundamental to the operation of decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystems, enabling liquidity provision and portfolio rebalancing.
Context ∞ The growth of decentralized finance has significantly increased the prominence of digital asset swaps, making them a regular feature in crypto news. Regulatory bodies are increasingly examining the implications of these exchanges for market surveillance and consumer protection. Developments in cross-chain swap technology continue to expand the interoperability and efficiency of these direct asset transfers.