Lending Pool

Definition ∞ A lending pool is a collection of digital assets contributed by multiple lenders into a smart contract, from which borrowers can obtain loans. These pools are central to decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, enabling users to earn interest on their deposited assets or borrow funds against collateral. The interest rates are typically determined algorithmically based on supply and demand within the pool. This mechanism allows for permissionless and transparent lending and borrowing activities without traditional financial intermediaries.
Context ∞ Lending pools are a foundational component of the DeFi ecosystem, with news frequently reporting on their total value locked (TVL) and associated risks. Reports often detail liquidations, smart contract vulnerabilities, or shifts in interest rates impacting lenders and borrowers. A key discussion involves managing the risks associated with impermanent loss and oracle manipulation in these decentralized systems. Regulatory bodies are increasingly scrutinizing lending pools for consumer protection and financial stability concerns.