What is 1inch (1INCH)?

By CMC AI
09 November 2025 10:44PM (UTC+0)

TLDR

1inch is a decentralized exchange (DEX) aggregator that optimizes crypto trades by pooling liquidity across multiple platforms, offering users the best possible rates and cross-chain interoperability.

  1. DEX Aggregation – Routes trades across 300+ liquidity sources to minimize slippage and maximize efficiency.

  2. Cross-Chain Swaps – Enables seamless asset transfers between Solana, Ethereum, and other EVM chains without bridges.

  3. Security & Innovation – Features MEV protection, gasless swaps, and institutional-grade security certifications.

Deep Dive

1. Core Purpose: Solving Fragmented Liquidity

1inch aggregates liquidity from decentralized exchanges (like Uniswap, Curve) and lending protocols, ensuring users get optimal swap rates. Its Pathfinder algorithm splits large orders across multiple platforms to reduce price impact—critical in volatile markets.

2. Cross-Chain Integration

In August 2025, 1inch launched native swaps between Solana and EVM chains (Ethereum, Polygon, etc.), eliminating reliance on vulnerable bridges. This allows direct asset transfers (e.g., ETH to SOL) using atomic swaps, enhancing security and liquidity across ecosystems.

3. Advanced Features

  • Fusion Mode: Gasless, MEV-protected swaps via a Dutch auction system.
  • 1inch Shield: Scans for malicious tokens in real-time (1inch).
  • Enterprise Adoption: Integrated into Coinbase’s app and Trust Wallet, serving 200M+ users with non-custodial swaps.

Conclusion

1inch is a cornerstone of DeFi infrastructure, bridging liquidity gaps and pioneering cross-chain interoperability. Its focus on security and efficiency positions it as a critical tool for traders and developers. As blockchain ecosystems expand, can 1inch maintain its edge in unifying fragmented markets?

CMC AI can make mistakes. Not financial advice.