Definition ∞ Permissioned pools are liquidity pools or financial instruments within decentralized finance (DeFi) that restrict participation to a pre-approved set of users or entities. Unlike open, permissionless pools, access requires meeting specific criteria, often related to identity verification, regulatory compliance, or institutional status. These pools aim to provide a compliant environment for regulated entities to engage with DeFi. They offer a controlled entry point into decentralized markets.
Context ∞ Permissioned pools represent a significant area of innovation for bringing institutional capital into the DeFi space while adhering to regulatory requirements. Discussions often revolve around the balance between the decentralized ethos of blockchain and the need for controlled access to satisfy compliance obligations. The continued development of these pools is critical for expanding the reach of decentralized finance to a broader, regulated participant base.